Atopic Dermatitis And Seborrheic Dermatitis: The Differences

Atopic and seborrheic dermatitis cause irritation and itching of the skin. Moreover, both can appear in newborns. What is the difference between both ?

The atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis are two very common conditions that affect the skin. Many people tend to confuse them. But,  in reality, they are two completely different entities.

The atopic dermatitis is a condition that usually causes skin redness, itching and a great dryness. Genetics are believed to be one of the primary factors in its development, although environmental and dietary factors also play a role.

On the other hand,  seborrheic dermatitis causes scaly patches and redness on the skin. It is the same sensation as that of dandruff persistently. In reality, it is a pathology that can affect all areas where the body produces more sebum. For example, the eyebrows, face and ears.

These two pathologies, atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis, cause skin irritation as well as very annoying symptoms associated with it. However, there are many differences between the two entities. We explain them to you here!

Who are affected by Atopic Dermatitis and Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Oddly enough, this is one of the main keys to the diagnosis of both diseases. Atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis  tend to affect distinct groups of people.

First of all,  atopic dermatitis predominates in children and adolescents. Indeed, it is estimated to affect 20% of the general population. It is worth noting that in order to establish the diagnosis of this pathology, doctors pay attention to the personality of the individual.

Atopic skin actually produces a lot of itching and tingling of the skin. Since it affects babies  who cannot express themselves,  these children usually exhibit characteristic behavior. Often these are irritable and nervous children.

On the other hand,  seborrheic dermatitis has two peaks of incidence. It usually occurs in the first few months of life or after puberty. In addition, it is slightly dominant in men, more than in women. Fortunately, it only affects about 5% of the population.

What are the symptoms of the two pathologies?

Atopic and seborrheic dermatitis cause itching and redness of the skin. However, each one expresses many other symptoms. For example,  itching, in the case of atopic dermatitis, often gets worse at night.

Atopic dermatitis

In addition, atopic dermatitis makes the skin very dry. As a result, the itching leads to scratching and  eventually causes flaking and inflammation of the skin. Reddish spots also appear on many areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, or neck.

The skin thickens and cracks due to the dryness. It is common for whitish, scaly patches to appear in the folds of the elbow, for example. They are similar to those that occur with  pityriasis alba and also produce tingling in those who have it.

Seborrheic dermatitis

For its part,  seborrheic dermatitis causes a kind of dandruff  in the hair, eyebrows or even the beard. A few fatty spots appear on the skin and are usually covered with white or yellowish scales. This is called the “milky crust”.

These scabs are often found on both sides of the nose, on the eyebrows, eyelids,  etc. In other words, in all areas where the production of sebum is important. Likewise, it is very common for certain areas of the skin to be very red and scaly.

Finally, it is essential to know that  another of the differences between atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis is the form of its appearance. Atopic dermatitis commonly presents with periodic exacerbations and temporary disappearances that can last for years. While seborrheic dermatitis worsens significantly with stress  or during cold and dry seasons.

What are the other important differences?

The two conditions are also distinguished  when they affect babies. Indeed,  seborrheic dermatitis hardly bother the child. On the other hand, as we have mentioned before, atopic dermatitis causes pain and continual irritation to the child.

Another difference to take into account is the state of hydration of the skin. While seborrheic makes the skin oily, atopic is accompanied by great dryness. However,  to treat these two pathologies, it is essential to maintain correct hydration of the skin.

Conclusion…

Finally, both pathologies can affect a newborn baby, but  it is important to know the most characteristic traits of each in order to be able to establish an adequate treatment. Thus, we will avoid the factors that can make the symptoms worse. Do not hesitate to consult a specialist in the face of any doubt.