Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition with many common names. On the heads and faces of infants, it called cradle cap. On faces and ears of children or adults, it is called eczema; when seborrheic dermatitis covers the scalp under the hairline in children or adults, it is commonly known as dandruff. Whatever the name, this dermatitis consists of itchy, flaky skin and yellowish, thickened skin plaques. Treatments range from heightened moisturizing to prescription shampoo products that contain selenium. Any treatment for this skin condition should be guided by a health professional to ensure safety and appropriate treatment choice.
Topical Selenium Products
Although mild seborrheic dermatitis may be controlled with gentle washing and vaseline or olive oil to soften plaques, more severe or widespread symptoms may require treatment with medication. Topical selenium products are available over-the-counter and as prescriptions in the form of lotions, shampoos, and creams. Both the 1 percent over-the-counter and the 2 percent prescription concentrations have antifungal activity that is used to treat fungal skin diseases. Because seborrheic dermatitis is usually limited to the scalp and hairline, shampoos are the most common selenium formulation used for treatment. The way selenium works to remove and prevent seborrheic dermatitis skin plaques is unclear.
How to Use Selenium Products
Over-the-counter selenium 1 percent shampoos, such as Selsun Blue, and prescription selenium 2.5 percent shampoos should be applied in small amounts of 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls during a shower. After a lather and a 2 to 3 minute wait, the shampoo should be rinsed off the scalp and hands thoroughly. The entire application may be repeated once more if approved by a physician. Over-the-counter shampoo may be used twice weekly; prescription products may be started at twice weekly doses for two weeks, but should be reduced to once weekly under a physician's guidance.
Selenium Dietary Requirements
Selenium is actually a mineral vital to a healthy body; it provides antioxidant, immune-boosting, and thyroid health benefits. Selenium capsule supplements are manufactured and sold in the United States; however, the body actually absorbs all of its required selenium through a regular diet, especially a diet that contains grain plants, some meats and corn. Brazil nuts, in particular, have high amounts of selenium, nearly 800 percent of the recommended daily value for adults in the United States, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.
Selenium Side Effects
Selenium toxicity can occur as a result of supplementation by mouth that provides greater than the recommended dietary allowance of 400 mcg each day or by overuse of topical selenium from improper rinsing or repeated shampooing. Side effects of excess selenium, including hair loss and scalp irritation and dryness, outweigh any possible benefits of extra use. Toxic selenium levels of greater than 100 mcg/dL, although rare, can occur and cause nausea, tiredness, blotchy nails and even mild nerve damage. Any medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, should only be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis under a doctor's supervision.
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