Skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis can put a damper on your social life. “I haven’t gone out and don’t even want to come out of my room,” said one member of MySebDermTeam. “I don’t want to be anti-social. I have old friends who want to see me. But I can’t let them see me like this.”

It’s normal to feel stress or worry about how your skin looks or what others may think, especially during a flare-up of symptoms like scaly, flaky skin. However, no one should feel like they need to isolate because of their skin condition.

Here are some tips to help you stay engaged with family, friends, and the world around you while living with seborrheic dermatitis.

1. Try a New Activity

Making room in your schedule for a new activity or hobby will help expand your social circle with people who share a common interest, belief, or hobby. Participating in a fitness class, an adult education class, or a community organization can be a form of self-care that improves your quality of life in more ways than one.

Ideas you might consider include:

• Doing a weekly exercise class at a local wellness center
• Fundraising for a nonprofit
• Getting involved in local politics
• Joining a community garden
• Learning a second language
• Signing up for a bowling league
• Taking a painting or pottery class

When meeting new people, only you can decide whether you want to discuss your health condition. You may find it empowering to briefly mention your seborrheic dermatitis rather than worry about feeling judged or misunderstood. Your line can be as simple as “You may notice that I have a skin condition. It affects my scalp, but it’s not contagious.”

Even if you choose to make the point, there’s no need to dwell on it. Moving on to topics that you have in common with others can help you find meaning in new relationships. Spend time asking questions to learn and engage with the people around you, looking for opportunities to relate whenever you can.

2. Get a Job, Either Paid or Volunteer

Work is one of the top places to meet people. If you aren’t in the market for employment, you can consider part-time volunteer work for organizations that are important to you. If you’re an animal lover, consider taking on tasks at a nearby animal shelter. Do you like to cook? There’s probably a soup kitchen nearby that could use extra help.

When you focus on the gifts you can offer (like your time and talents), you spend less mental energy feeling bad about your skin. Helping others can get you to move beyond self-consciousness by focusing on life’s bigger picture and validating the value you bring to the world.

3. Meet Your Neighbors

You don’t have to be best friends with your neighbors, but it doesn’t hurt to know their names. If you haven’t already, take the initiative to introduce yourself and learn a little bit about the people who live nearby. It’s helpful to have some phone numbers of those around you in case you have an emergency or power outage or need a small favor. While you should always use some caution before getting too close to strangers, a simple smile and a hello can make your neighborhood feel like a friendlier and more welcoming place.

4. Consider Getting a Pet

Unconditional love from pets can be a wonderful solution for those who are willing and able to care for them. Animals offer company and companionship, keeping feelings of loneliness and isolation at bay. Depending on the type of animal, your pet can also help get you out of the house and meet new people. Dogs need regular walks, giving you a reason to visit a dog park or stroll around your neighborhood. A friendly dog can be an instant conversation starter, as they often introduce themselves to strangers and serve as an easy talking point.

Most people can find a pet that suits their lifestyle. If you’re not home as much during the day but still want a cuddly pet around, a cat may be a better option. Even tank animals like turtles, reptiles, and fish can bring new life and joy to your home.

5. Reach Out Virtually

If you’re not up for seeing others in person, you can still nurture your connections and show that you care. Take advantage of email, texting, and phone calls to check in or share how you’re doing. Sending cards, postcards, or letters by mail can also be a thoughtful way to connect. If you find yourself forgetting to reach out, set a reminder on your phone or calendar to initiate contact with at least one person every week. Acknowledging important anniversaries, birthdays, and other milestones in your loved ones’ lives can go a long way toward maintaining relationships, even if you don’t see each other regularly.

6. Find Your Community

Even if you choose to tell others about your seborrheic dermatitis, you may still feel like they don’t really understand what you’re going through. That’s why it’s important to connect with a network of people who face similar symptoms and challenges. It’s possible that even people with different skin conditions, like psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema, can relate to your experience. Online communities provide access to people around the world who can relate to your situation.

Members of MySebDermTeam are from all age groups and stages of life. “I’m 75 and never had this before. Now I’ve had two flare-ups in three months,” shared one member. “It makes me crazy. My dermatologist has suggested and prescribed various treatments, but … I’m happy to have found this group.”

By sharing your story and hearing from others, you can learn strategies to help manage your condition and feel less alone.

7. Know When To Seek Help

Sometimes, the impact of seborrheic dermatitis is too overwhelming to handle alone. Avoiding social situations can be a sign that you need professional help. If your symptoms appear to be worsening, make an appointment with your dermatologist to explore treatment options such as medicated shampoos, topical corticosteroids, antifungal creams, lotions, and other skin care products to keep your symptoms under control.

If you’re feeling depressed or isolated, it may be time to talk to a mental health care provider. You may need to learn new coping skills to overcome barriers keeping you from living your best life.

There’s no need for a skin condition to have you missing out on everything the world has to offer. Talking through scenarios, practicing mindfulness techniques, and discussing your insecurities can open the door to freedom.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MySebDermTeam is the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones. On MySebDermTeam, over 5,600 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their tips with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.

How does seborrheic dermatitis affect your mental health, well-being, and social life? Do dandruff, itchiness, or other symptoms keep you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.