Q Do I have to live with seborrhoeic dermatitis forever? Is it true that it gets better with age?
A Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic relapsing condition, and long-term management rather than a complete cure is the realistic goal. Cases arising in infancy usually resolve spontaneously around the first birthday, but the adult form repeatedly alternates between relapse and remission. After the 50s, sebum secretion decreases and symptoms tend to ease, but there is considerable individual variation depending on constitution, stress, and lifestyle habits.
Detailed Answer
Adult seborrhoeic dermatitis has the characteristic of repeating relapse and improvement over years to decades. Consistently combining antifungal management, sebum control, stress management, and dietary improvement can extend the relapse interval to 1–2-year cycles. As sebum secretion decreases with age, symptoms often diminish naturally, but individual variation is large, so ongoing management is necessary.
Korean Medicine Perspective
At Dongjedang, we recommend long-term Korean medicine management from the perspective that "correcting the constitution reduces recurrence." Consistently strengthening Spleen-Stomach function to improve the Damp-Heat constitution reduces the frequency and intensity of relapses, as confirmed in clinical practice.
Related FAQs
-
Q
I am a woman in my 50s living in Dong-gu, Incheon. My facial flushing has worsened dramatically since menopause. Can I still expect effective treatment at my age?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
My seborrhoeic dermatitis is spreading around my eyes and my eyes are frequently bloodshot and stinging. Is it safe to leave it alone?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I have seborrhoeic scalp dermatitis — should I wash my hair every day or less often? What kind of shampoo should I use?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I have facial flushing and do a lot of outdoor activities in summer. What sunscreen should I choose and how should I manage my skin outdoors?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I have rosacea and my eyes are stinging and dry. Can eye complications develop?
#Safety