How I got rid of seborrheic dermatitis and all the flakes that come with it
I usually write articles about technology-related topics, but today is different. I wanted to write this article to let others know of the method I used to get rid of seborrheic dermatitis. I wrote this article to help those who are still seeking a solution to this problem. This is what worked for me.
The Struggle with Flaky Skin
Although I struggled with flaky skin for several years, I didn’t realize what I had been experiencing was an actual skin condition. I just thought it was dry skin. That was, until my future-wife asked me if I had ever considered it to be “seborrheic dermatitis”.
“Seberwhaty-what?” I asked.
I learned that seborrheic dermatitis is a severe form of dandruff that affects not just the scalp but also other areas of the body with oil glands.
At the end of each day, while preparing for bed and looking in the bathroom mirror, I noticed tiny white flakes in my eyebrows, ears, and sometimes in my beard. I would scrape off some skin along my ear with my fingernail. Ugh.
Of course, I started searching the web for a fix. I tried using Selenium Blue, for a month, then Nizoral for a few months, and finally after no success, went to see a dermatologist. My dermatologist prescribed Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo and said to use it until the issue went away. After following the prescription for four months without improvement, I was then advised to apply hydrocortisone to the affected areas to reduce inflammation for another two months. Two months later, the problem still persisted. What should be done?
After doing additional research, I found that some people have had success by installing a shower filter. I had never thought of that — what if it was the actual water I was using that was contributing to my dermatitis?
Testing the Water
You don’t need a water quality test kit to treat seborrheic dermatitis; I was simply curious about the water quality in my area. If you’re just ready for the solution, skip to The Solution.
I purchased the HoneForest TDS Meter on Amazon for under $20 with shipping.
The water quality tester detected a TDS of 257 ppm, indicating that the tap water is classified as “hard water.”
Hard water just means water that has a high mineral content, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. This is normal, as nearly all homes have tap water that is considered “hard”. Some mineral content is to be expected, but excess should be limited.
Below is a legend that helps explain if the TDS test result is acceptable. If the TDS PPM is above 500, this would have been outside the normal range for tap water. Fortunately, 257 ppm is at a safe level for tap water. Water treatment plants constantly test water to ensure it’s safe to drink and use.
Hard water is not necessarily bad. Even ocean water contains over 35,000 ppm. However, the EPA recommends keeping ppm below 500 for drinking and bathing.
Compare that figure with bottled water, which is usually less than 100 ppm.
Although the EPA considers 257 ppm safe, it may still contribute to skin irritation.
Moving on to the drinking water test kit. I purchased Varify 17 in 1 Complete Drinking Water Test Kit on Amazon for under $30 with shipping. This kit comes with 100 test strips, and tests for lead, alkaline, chlorine, icon, fluoride, copper, sulfate, and more.
Testing revealed seemingly higher-than-normal sulfate levels in my drinking water. It’s safe, but not ideal. My tap water’s pH seems slightly more acidic than normal, but it’s difficult to confirm using the color gauge.
Since some of the words are cut-off in the picture, here’s a full legend.
So if my tap water isn’t “perfect”, your tap water may have room for improvement, too! 😊
The reason I wanted to test my tap water was to check its quality. High sulfate levels (along with other minerals and mid TDS) made me consider if it was contributing to my issues, as sulfates can irritate skin. So, I decided to get a shower filter.
The Solution
Although you don’t necessarily need to test your own tap water, a shower filter will always help by removing minerals and solids, improving the water quality.
I purchased the AquaBliss High Output Shower Filter for under $40 with shipping. It was easy to install and only took about 10 minutes with no special tools required. It works on nearly all shower heads, and simply screws on between the shower head and the water line. They recommend that you replace the shower filter about every 4–6 months depending on the quality of your tap water.
I also purchased a highly-rated skin cream. I bought Blooskim’s Seborrheic Dermatitis Cream for under $20. Fair warning — the first time you use this cream, you will think it is burning your skin! It’s not really burning! It just makes your skin tingle for 15 minutes or so. It doesn’t hurt, but is a bit surprising if you didn’t know that happens! You will get used to it after a few uses.
The other product I purchased is the SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Body Cleanser, also under $20. Although acne is in the title, and it does help with that, it also helps regular excess sebum. It also makes your skin feel very smooth.
Shower Filter + Blooskim Cream + Some by Mi Cleanser = Seborrheic dermatitis gone!
I was surprised that this cream and cleanser worked even better than the prescription shampoo that was prescribed by my dermatologist.
Disclaimer: This information is based on my opinion and personal experience. Individual results may vary, and what has worked for me may not work for everyone. Always consider consulting a professional for advice tailored to your specific situation. I only recommend products and services that I have personally tested and endorse. Some of my articles contain affiliate links that may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
