Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Eyebrows: How to Treat it?

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition. Although its causes are not yet fully understood, an excessive proliferation of the yeast Malassezia is considered as one of the involved factors. This yeast feeds on the sebum present on the skin, which explains why individuals with oily skin are more likely to be affected by this disease. Other factors such as hormones, certain diseases, and lifestyle are also considered potential triggers of seborrheic dermatitis. However, further research is needed to better understand the interaction of these factors and the development of this skin condition. In all cases, seborrheic dermatitis manifests in the same way. Red patches covered with scales typically appear on parts of the face, including the wing of the nose, extending to the scalp. Symptoms can also be visible on the eyebrows, which can be bothersome.

Seborrheic dermatitis of the eyebrows is not a disease that leads to complications. However, it can impact the quality of life of the affected individual. The patches of redness can itch during flare-up periods. That's why it is recommended to properly treat the symptoms in order to lessen the effects of the condition.

Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Eyebrows is a recurring condition that manifests in flare-ups. It can be treated, but may always return. Therefore, it is necessary to remind you of the treatment methods for relapse periods.

For treatment, the simplest method is firstly to wash your face at least twice a day with a suitable skincare product that does not contain irritants or fragrances that could harm the skin. A ketoconazole cream is generally prescribed due to its antifungal activity which can combat the proliferation of Malassezia. A concentration of 2% ketoconazole has proven effective after 2 to 4 weeks to treat this skin condition. However, its mechanism of action has not been explicitly detailed in studies.

A cream containing 1% bifonazole has also proven effective against this type of seborrheic dermatitis. Indeed, bifonazole has a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Fungal cells have a cellular membrane composed of ergosterol, a steroid that plays a significant role in the stability and function of the membrane. Bifonazole works by inhibiting an enzyme called 14α-demethylase, which is involved in the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol. By blocking this step in the biosynthesis of ergosterol, bifonazole results in a significant decrease in the concentration of ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, leading to their apoptosis. This antifungal activity has proven effective against the Malassezia which helps to limit its proliferation and thus treat seborrheic dermatitis.

These treatments have demonstrated effectiveness against seborrheic dermatitis. However, at the first signs of this skin condition, it is strongly recommended to seek the advice of a dermatologist. This professional will be able to guide you towards the best approach to take.

• FORD G. P. & al. The response of seborrhoeic dermatitis to ketoconazole. British Journal of Dermatology (1984).

• SKINNER R. B. & al. Double-blind treatment of seborrheic dermatitis with 2% ketoconazole cream. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (1985).

• FAERGEMANN J. Treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis with Bifonazole. Mycoses (1989).

• VAN GERVEN F. & al. The anti-Malassezia furfur activity in vitro and in experimental dermatitis of six imidazole antifungal agents: bifonazole, clotrimazole, flutrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole and sertaconazole. Mycoses (1995).