Homoeopathic Management of Facial Seborrhoeic Dermatitis Following Emotional Bereavement: A Case Report

Abstract

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic relapsing inflammatory dermatosis involving sebaceous gland-rich areas, commonly presenting with erythema, greasy scaling, itching, and dandruff. Facial involvement often produces cosmetic concerns that significantly affect young adults. Emotional stress, altered immunity, and Malassezia colonization are recognized contributors to disease exacerbation.

This case report describes a 22-year-old female who presented with bilateral hypopigmented flaky facial patches of four months' duration associated with dryness, intermittent itching, facial erythema after sun exposure, dandruff, and scalp itching. Detailed constitutional evaluation revealed unresolved grief following the premature loss of her father during the COVID-19 pandemic, increased emotional maturity, reserved expression of emotions, strong sense of responsibility towards her mother, and sensitivity towards the suffering of others. Repertorial analysis supported Natrum muriaticum as the constitutional remedy, while Ferrum phosphoricum 6X was prescribed as an adjunctive tissue salt.

Following individualized homoeopathic treatment, the facial lesions improved progressively with complete resolution of itching, erythema, acne, and scaling, resulting in restoration of normal skin appearance and significant improvement in quality of life.