Curd for seborrheic dermatitis

There is no cream that will cure seborrheic dermatitis but topical treatments can help relieve symptoms. Some people find relief from using home made remedies while others may need prescription medications.

One treatment option that is gaining popularity is using curd to soothe the skin. Curd is a fermented dairy product that contains lactic acid, which helps to soothe skin irritation.

Let’s take a deep dive:

Is curd good for seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition that causes red, itchy skin patches on the face, neck, and chest. Treatment options include prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies, but some people find relief by using curd.

Indeed, curd is listed as one of the natural treatments for seborrheic dermatitis. Curd (dahi) is a traditional fermented milk product, originating from India. Curd contains yogurt bacteria (lactobacilli) which may help to relieve symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.

You can make your own curd by using a curd starter:

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Some people swear that curd improves their seborrheic dermatitis while others say curd helps to soothe and refresh their skin. There is actually not enough evidence to support this claim even though there are a few studies showing that yogurt can improve yeast infections. Yogurt and curd are very similar (more on that later). If you’re looking for a natural treatment for SD, trying curd out is not going to do any harm.

Curd contains lactic acid, which helps to moisturize the skin and shed dead skin cells. Curd also has antifungal properties that can help to control the growth of yeast on the skin. This can be helpful in treating dandruff as well.

Can curd cure seborrheic dermatitis?

Unfortunately, curd is not a cure seborrheic dermatitis. No cream (including steroid creams and antifungal agents) will cure SD. You’ll need to inwards for that. However, a curd mask can improve your seborrheic dermatitis symptoms.

The lactic acid present in the curd helps in shedding the dead cells from the skin. Apart from this, the lactic acid also helps moisturize the skin leaving it soft and supple.

Curd also has the bonus effect of preventing acne on our skin. Curd is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Applying curd on acne prone areas will minimize them.

How to use curd for seborrheic dermatitis?

There are a few key things to keep in mind when it comes to using curd for seborrheic dermatitis. First and foremost, the severity of your condition is important to consider. In some cases, you may be able to use curd on its own as part of your treatment plan. However, by itself, curd is not usually good enough to help.

There are other topical creams that can be used in conjunction with curd to provide relief from symptoms. You should also avoid triggers and improve your diet.

The best way to use curd to relieve SD, whether it’s on your face or on your scalp, is by applying a curd mask. There are many different recipes for curd masks, but some of the most popular combinations include:

• curd and cucumber
• curd and aloe vera
• curd and chamomile
• curd and rice powder
• curd and tomato
• curd and turmeric
• curd and honey
• curd and besan (gram flour)
• curd and lemon
• curd and oats

You should also do a patch test by applying the mixture to a small area of skin first. If you develop any signs of irritation such as redness, itchiness, or swelling, ditch the mask.

Can eating curd improve seborrheic dermatitis?

Curd is a rich source of probiotics. The good bacteria in curd will improve your gut health, which directly strengthens your immune system.

Curd also contains vitamins like B6 and B12, minerals, is high in calcium and low in calories.

Anything that helps your gut health is a good thing. However, if you’re not a fan of curd, there are many other food sources which can improve your gut and your immune system.

Another good probiotic drink option that may taste better than curd is kefir. Read: Is kefir good for seborrheic dermatitis?

Tips to keep in mind while using curd for treating seborrheic dermatitis

Curd masks are made from natural ingredients and is easy to DIY at home. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your mask:

• Prep your skin – Before applying the mask, make sure your skin is properly prepped by washing it and drying it off. This will ensure the skin cells are ready to absorb all that goodness
• Apply the mask for 15 – 30 minutes before rinsing it off. The ingredients need some time to do its thing
• Don’t over do it. If you do curd masks too often, it will dry your skin out. This will cause rebound sebum production and aggravate SD.
• Keep cool – if it’s too warm, the mask runs more.
• You can use gram flour or rice flour to thicken up the mask so it’s not as messy
• Less is more. Apply a thin layer so that the mask dries out quicker. If you apply too much, it will drip off your face.

What is the difference between curd and yogurt?

Although they have a similar appearance and are both dairy-based, curd and yogurt are quite different.

Curd is made by curdling milk with an edible acidic substance, such as vinegar or lemon juice. The acid causes the milk to separate into solids (curd) and liquids (whey). The whey can then be drained off, leaving behind the curd.

Yogurt is created with a yogurt culture, commonly Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. The culture causes a bacterial fermentation of the milk. This process thickens the milk, gives it a characteristic sour taste, and produces lactic acid.

To wrap up

There is minimal evidence that curd can be beneficial for those suffering from seborrheic dermatitis. Anecdotally, many people have found curd masks helpful. While more research is needed, consuming curd may be a natural way to improve the symptoms of this condition.