When Cheryl Baker first noticed her scalp itching and tiny white scales appearing in June of 2023, she assumed it was simply a bout of dandruff. “I thought at first it was dandruff, but I never had flakes in my hair, just on the scalp,” Cheryl recalled.

It wasn’t long before the Vista, California, resident sought medical advice, and after several visits to different dermatologists, she was diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis — a chronic skin condition that causes flaky, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas of the body such as the scalp or inside the ear.

Here are some tips to learn from Cheryl and how she coped with a seborrheic dermatitis diagnosis.

1. Be Curious About Your Seborrheic Dermatitis Diagnosis

Cheryl’s initial reaction to the seborrheic dermatitis diagnosis was one of upset. “I was depressed when the dermatologist informed me it was chronic and there was no cure,” she said. The idea of dealing with a lifelong condition was daunting, particularly when the only solutions offered were to “keep trying different creams, shampoos, and ointments.”

But Cheryl wasn’t ready to accept that as the end of the road. Instead, she shifted her mindset from despair to determination. “I became focused on researching everything I could read and learn from others with the same issues,” she explained.

Cheryl’s journey transformed from one of seeking immediate relief to a quest for understanding and finding comfort in shared experiences.

2. Find Community and Comfort Online

In her search for knowledge, Cheryl found MySebDermTeam, the online community for people with seborrheic dermatitis. “I found friendly and useful information from professionals and others dealing with my chronic disease,” Cheryl shared.

This community became an invaluable resource, offering both practical advice and emotional support. “MySebDermTeam became a comfort source,” she said, “getting ideas and thoughts from others with similar issues.”

For Cheryl, the community provided more than just tips on managing symptoms; it was a space where she could connect with others who truly understood her struggles. This support was especially vital, given her experience with multiple dermatologists who, despite their best efforts, often provided similar guidance.

Cheryl learned that skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema often overlap in treatments, making personalized care a challenge. She also found that the dermatologists she saw “all seemed to give basically the same advice overall.” This realization reinforced her commitment to learning as much as she could from both medical professionals and others living with the condition.

3. Build Your Knowledge and Advocacy

Unafraid by the lack of a straightforward solution, Cheryl turned to other resources, subscribing to health magazines and newsletters to keep herself informed about the latest developments in dermatology. Her drive to better understand her condition not only empowered her but also inspired her to share her story. “I wanted to share my story so others will know they aren’t alone in their search for something that will be the answer for long-lasting relief or a possible cure,” she said.

Cheryl’s advocacy is rooted in empathy and a desire to help others navigate their own journeys with seborrheic dermatitis. She encourages newly diagnosed individuals to remain hopeful. “Don’t give up,” Cheryl advises. “Keep trying approaches that others have found useful. The professionals are working on possible answers, so hang in there and know you are not alone in this journey.”

4. Ask for Help From Your Support Network

Throughout her journey, Cheryl has been fortunate to have the unwavering support of her family and friends. “My friends and family have an ear and eye out for me whenever they hear, read, or see something that they think I would be interested in,” she shared.

This support network has been a cornerstone of her determination, helping her maintain a positive outlook.

5. Stay Patient and Optimistic

At 76, Cheryl remains active, a testament to her strength and optimism. A cancer survivor of 23 years, she understands the importance of perseverance and hope.

Her message to others is clear: “Patience is sometimes difficult, but there is always hope.”

Cheryl’s story is a reminder that while a chronic diagnosis like seborrheic dermatitis can be challenging, it is possible to find strength, support, and even comfort in community and knowledge.

Find Your Team

Connecting with others can be invaluable when living with a skin condition. MySebDermTeam is the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones. On MySebDermTeam, more than 15,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.

What lesson did you learn during your diagnosis process? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.