Question 1

What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes scaly, flaky, itchy, and red patches primarily on the scalp and oil-rich areas of the body. It is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast combined with nutritional deficiencies, particularly biotin and vitamin B6. The Biotin (Vitamin B7) blood test is the most important test for diagnosing vitamin deficiencies that contribute to seborrheic dermatitis.

Question 2

What causes seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast that naturally lives on the skin, combined with an inflammatory response and nutritional deficiencies. The condition develops when this yeast grows excessively in areas with many oil glands, such as the scalp, face, and upper chest. Factors like stress, cold weather, hormonal changes, weakened immune system, and deficiencies in biotin and vitamin B6 can trigger or worsen flare-ups of this chronic skin condition.

Question 3

What is the best test for seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

The Biotin (Vitamin B7) blood test is the most important test for seborrheic dermatitis because it detects biotin deficiency, which is a key nutritional factor contributing to this skin condition, especially on the scalp. This test measures your biotin levels to determine if low vitamin B7 is making your symptoms worse. The Vitamin B6 blood test is also essential as a supporting test, since vitamin B6 deficiency can manifest as the scaly, flaky, itchy patches characteristic of seborrheic dermatitis. Together, these tests help identify underlying nutritional deficiencies that can be corrected through supplementation and dietary changes as part of your treatment plan.

Question 4

When should I get tested for seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent dandruff that does not improve with over-the-counter shampoos, develop scaly red patches on your scalp, face, chest, or other oily areas of your body, or notice that your symptoms worsen despite treatment. Testing is especially important if you have chronic seborrheic dermatitis that keeps returning, if you have immune system disorders, or if you suspect nutritional deficiencies might be contributing to your skin problems. Early testing helps identify vitamin deficiencies so you can address them before the condition worsens.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis symptoms include flaky white or yellow scales on the scalp (dandruff), red and inflamed patches of skin, greasy or oily-looking skin covered with flakes, itching and burning sensations, and crusty patches on the scalp, face, or body. The condition commonly affects the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears, chest, and other areas with many oil glands. Symptoms often flare up during stress or cold, dry weather and may improve during warmer months.

Question 6

Who is at risk for seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

People at higher risk for seborrheic dermatitis include those with oily skin, individuals with weakened immune systems such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, people with neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease, and those experiencing high stress levels. The condition is also more common in infants under three months old (appearing as cradle cap) and adults between 30 and 60 years of age. Nutritional deficiencies in biotin and vitamin B6, hormonal changes, and certain medications can also increase your risk.

Question 7

What happens if seborrheic dermatitis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If seborrheic dermatitis is left untreated, it can lead to persistent itching that causes scratching, which may result in skin infections from bacteria entering broken skin. The constant inflammation can cause temporary hair loss in affected areas of the scalp, and the visible flaking and redness can impact your self-esteem and quality of life. While seborrheic dermatitis is not dangerous, untreated symptoms often worsen over time and become more difficult to manage. Addressing underlying vitamin deficiencies early can prevent the condition from becoming more severe and recurring frequently.

Question 8

Can seborrheic dermatitis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis itself is diagnosed through a visual examination by a healthcare provider, not through blood tests. However, blood tests play an important role in identifying nutritional deficiencies that contribute to the development and worsening of seborrheic dermatitis. The Biotin (Vitamin B7) and Vitamin B6 blood tests can reveal deficiencies that may be making your symptoms worse, allowing your healthcare provider to develop a more comprehensive treatment plan that addresses these underlying factors alongside topical treatments.

Question 9

How is seborrheic dermatitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis is treated with medicated shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar to control yeast growth and reduce inflammation. Topical antifungal creams, corticosteroid creams or lotions for reducing inflammation, and calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus are commonly prescribed for facial and body lesions. If blood tests reveal biotin or vitamin B6 deficiencies, your healthcare provider may recommend supplementation alongside topical treatments. Consistent skincare routines, gentle cleansing, and managing stress can also help control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Question 10

How can I prevent seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups by maintaining a regular skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing of affected areas, washing your scalp regularly with a mild shampoo, and avoiding harsh skin products that strip natural oils. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in B vitamins and zinc, and avoiding known triggers like extreme weather can reduce outbreaks. If you have nutritional deficiencies identified through blood testing, correcting these with proper supplementation and diet can help prevent recurrence of symptoms.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with seborrheic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that help with seborrheic dermatitis include applying tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil to affected areas for its antifungal properties, using aloe vera gel to soothe inflammation and reduce itching, and massaging coconut oil into the scalp before washing. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements or foods like salmon and walnuts can reduce inflammation, while ensuring adequate intake of biotin-rich foods like eggs, nuts, and sweet potatoes may help if deficiency is a factor. Apple cider vinegar diluted with water can be used as a scalp rinse to balance pH, though you should consult with a healthcare provider before trying new remedies, especially if you have identified vitamin deficiencies through blood testing.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Seborrheic Dermatitis Blood Test

What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

What causes seborrheic dermatitis?

What is the best test for seborrheic dermatitis?

When should I get tested for seborrheic dermatitis?

References

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