What is Seborrhoeic Dermatitis?
If you are living in Sussex and struggling with a scalp that is persistent in flaking, itching, or feeling “tight,” you may be dealing with Seborrhoeic Dermatitis (often called Scalp Eczema). Research estimates that around 4% of the population suffers from this condition. However, in our East Grinstead clinic, we see it daily.
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is an inflammatory condition affecting areas rich in oil-producing glands. While the scalp is the primary target, symptoms often spread to the hairline, eyebrows, and even the sides of the nose. “Many of my patients try to cure this by applying heavy oils,” says Shuna. “However, this condition is linked to oil activity, not dryness. Adding oil fuels the yeast that causes the inflammation.”
Common symptoms of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
If you have tried every shampoo in the chemist without success, look for these specific signs:
Yellowish or White Flakes
Scales that are often greasy and stick to the hair.
Persistent Redness
Visible inflammation on the scalp surface.
Itching
This can range from mild irritation to keeping you awake at night.
Greasy Roots
Hair feels heavy or oily soon after washing.
Why Seborrhoeic Dermatitis happens (the Sussex factor)
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is “multifactorial,” meaning several triggers combine to cause a flare-up. Shuna investigates your specific lifestyle factors:
Stress & Anxiety
High cortisol levels are a major trigger. We frequently treat professionals commuting from Haywards Heath and East Grinstead.
Hard Water Build-up
The chalky water common across the South Downs and the Weald can irritate sensitive scalps.
Hormonal Changes
Menopause, pregnancy, or contraceptive changes can all disturb the scalp’s balance.
Seasonal Weather
The damp, humid winters often experienced in Kent and Sussex can encourage yeast growth on the scalp.
Your personalised plan for Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
This condition is frequently misdiagnosed as Psoriasis or simple dandruff. Shuna Hammocks (Member of the Institute of Trichologists) provides a thorough clinical examination — we look past the symptoms to manage the cause — then provide a management strategy tailored to your life in Sussex: targeted clinical treatments to calm inflammation immediately, home-care routines selecting the right pH-balanced products to counteract local hard water, and lifestyle support with nutritional advice to reduce flare-ups.
Serving the whole of Sussex
You do not need to suffer in silence. We provide expert dermatological scalp care for adults and children across the county. Whether you are visiting us from Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Worthing, or right here in East Grinstead, our clinic offers a private, judgment-free environment.
Related conditions
Other scalp conditions we treat
Dandruff (Pityriasis Capitis)
Dandruff is more than just a nuisance; it is a metabolic disturbance of the scalp’s micro-flora. While common, it can be embarrassing and persistent. If over-the-counter shampoos haven’t worked, you may need a targeted clinical approach.
Read more
Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, creating thick, silvery scales and dry, red patches (plaques). We offer descaling treatments and therapies to soothe the skin without damaging the hair.
Read more
Scalp Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
If you have eczema elsewhere on your body, it can also affect your scalp. It typically presents as dry, intensely itchy, and inflamed skin. We focus on restoring the skin’s moisture barrier.
Read moreCalm your scalp today
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a manageable condition. With the proper care plan from Shuna Hammocks, you can reduce redness and stop the itch.