HomeAnswersDermatologyseborrheic dermatitisWhy are the botanical ingredients affecting my scalp alone?

Botanical ingredients are affecting my scalp. Please help.

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At August 4, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have constructed various inquiries regarding the skin on my body, and also, the skin on my scalp and face. I have observed several times that most botanical ingredients irritate my scalp, but these plant ingredients do not seem to irritate my face. I am highly cognizant that most plant ingredients are potential allergens. My question is, why is it that these plant ingredients only seem to affect my scalp negatively and not my face? I would also like to inform you that now, I typically avoid most plant ingredients, I read a plethora of information regarding cosmetics ingredients and skin science, and I also aim for products that have minimal ingredients. I predominately have sensitive skin. My second question is surrounding the IPL Kenzzi device that I invested in. A few weeks ago, I purchased an intense pulse light tool to slow the growth of unwanted hairs. The instructions state to shave everything, then to commence using the device for the first twelve weeks. After the first twelve weeks, then it states to use it twice a month, and then once a month I believe. When using the device for the second week, I noticed my skin reacted with rashes and dryness. So, my question is, should I continue the use of my device but just use it less often? Or, should I completely disregard it? Lastly, for a while now, I have noticed that I flake on the sides of my nose and my eyebrows. Could it possibly be seborrheic dermatitis? I did a colorless henna treatment for my scalp and hair (but mostly my scalp) a few weeks ago, and I have noticed that the flakes that would normally appear on my scalp have disappeared for quite a while now.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Shukla

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

First about botanical ingredients. As we know natural products are not necessarily allergy free as they can contain oils and extracts from flowers, plants or nuts. Now as shampoos and facewash can have different botanical ingredients, that may be the reason your scalp is developing allergy but not your face. Now if same products are causing allergy to scalp but not to face, then this may be due to the fact that scalp is more vascular and has many nerve endings. Now coming to IPL device, I need to ask you a few questions before providing any advise. Did you increase the energy during second session? Did this redness resolves in few days or is it persistent? Did you apply anything before doing IPL? Dryness is common after IPL treatment and sometimes temporary redness can occur. Third, yes it can be seborrheic dermatitis as in SD yellowish greasy scaling occurs on scalp, nose crease and eyebrows.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you so much. I have read your response and things are starting to seem clearer now. As for the Kenzzi IPL device, Yes, I actually did increase the level to a 5 the second time. The first time I used it, the level was on a 3 and it did not irritate me. All I did before starting the treatment was shave. Finally, the rashes have occurred since I last used it, but they only seem to be on my legs, and they have been minimizing as the days pass on.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Shukla

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

When using IPL, gradually increase the energy level and if you feel slight irritation, you can use icepack over that area. Also always apply moisturizer after IPL.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Deepti Shukla
Dr. Deepti Shukla

Venereology

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