Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis

TL;DR

Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis, though uncommon, can significantly impact those affected, usually occurring in infants or post-puberty. Linked with specific yeasts and influenced by factors such as emotional stress, Parkinson’s disease, and changing seasons, this condition highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing dermatoses in sensitive areas.

Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis is uncommon, since the area does not have many sebaceous glands. Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that usually occurs in infants or after puberty, and occurs appears on the face, scalp, in folds of skin, and sometimes the genitals.

Vulvar seborrheic dermatitis has been linked with certain yeasts (Pityrosporum or Malassezia species), but triggers can be emotional stress and anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, injury to a nerve, and wasting muscle disease syringomyelia. These conditions may coincide with or cause worsening of vulvar seborrheic dermatitis.

Other factors related to vulvar seborrheic dermatitis are changing seasons, zinc deficiencies, and HIV. If you are suffering from some form of dermatitis on or around your vagina, it’s more likely to be one of the other dermatoses such as a lichenoid condition, allergic contact dermatitis, or another immune condition.



Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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