The eyebrows, just like the scalp, are susceptible to certain dermatological diseases. One of the most frequent is dermatitis on the eyebrows, which tends to cause certain discomfort, also affecting the aesthetics of the look since it causes dandruff on the eyebrows.

At blog de Hospital Capilar, an expert hair clinic in eyebrow grafting in Madrid, Murcia and Pontevedra, we tell you everything you need to know about eyebrow dermatitis: causes, symptoms and possible treatments.

What is eyebrow dermatitis?

Seborrheic type eyebrow dermatitis is defined as a skin disorder that causes itching, redness of the area and the appearance of dandruff on the eyebrows. These are endogenous eczemas which are not caused by external agents.

It is a condition that not only appears on the eyebrows, but can also occur on the scalp, beard, nose and ears, among others. Specifically, these eczemas appear in regions that contain a greater number of sebaceous glands.

Eyebrow dermatitis can develop at any age without distinction between men and women.

Causes of eyebrow dermatitis

The exact cause of seborrheic eyebrow dermatitis is currently unknown. Nevertheless, excess fat on the skin together with the proliferation of bacteria are the key conditions for a person to end up developing this dermatological disease.  

Fungal infection

The proliferation of fungi, specifically the so-called Malassezia, in the eyebrow area is the main reason why dermatitis ends up developing on the eyebrows. The sebaceous glands become inflamed generating whitish plaques and scaling, causing itching and stinging.

Immune system reaction

Precisely the proliferation of fungi on the skin that we mentioned earlier can occur due to an inefficient response from the immune system.

cold and dry climate

Another factor that can be the origin or aggravation of a picture of seborrheic dermatitis on the eyebrows is the weather. Low temperatures together with dryness in the environment can worsen the symptoms of dermatitis of this type.

Symptoms of eyebrow dermatitis

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the eyebrows are very characteristic. In the event of any of the effects mentioned below, it is advisable to go to a clinic to receive a medical diagnosis.

Peeling

The main symptom of eyebrow dermatitis is flaking. Desquamation is defined as the detachment and accumulation of dead skin cells. This results in what is commonly known as eyebrow dandruff. In some more severe cases, this accumulation of dead cells can lead to the formation of large, thick plaques.

Redness of the area

Another of the effects of dermatitis on the eyebrows, in addition to the appearance of dandruff, is the redness of the affected area. It can even become inflamed causing certain discomfort in the patient.

Itch

Most patients suffering from eyebrow dermatitis experience itching and stinging sensations. In this sense, it is important to avoid scratching as it could aggravate the symptoms.

Treatment of eyebrow dermatitis

As we have commented previously, it is highly recommended that in case of any of the mentioned symptoms we go to the specialist. Depending on the severity of the eyebrow dermatitis picture, more intensive treatments are used or, even, the symptoms may disappear on their own.

Topical application of antifungal

One of the most common solutions to relieve symptoms is the use of antifungal creams. These require a prescription, so, again, it is key to see a medical specialist.

Use of corticosteroids

If the medical professional considers it so, they can also recommend the use of corticosteroids.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid in low amounts that we can find in certain creams or soaps can help to reduce sebum. However, it is preferable to consult with the medical team as this may vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and type of dermatitis.

Daily hygiene with neutral soap

One of the keys to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and the accumulation of dead skin cells is to maintain correct daily hygiene. For this, it is advisable to use a neutral soap for daily use on the eyebrows.