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What Caused White Waxy Substance On Face?

Posted on Tue, 9 Sep 2014

Question: White waxy substance from face, appears more when I sweat, just squeezing skin any where on face, though more prevalent under my chin and under face/neck area. I was told it could be yeast coming out but I was wondering if it could be related to bad gum disease..... Can you help me?

thank you

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Probably seborrheic dermatitis

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear,welcome to HealthcareMagic forum.

Excessive white,waxy secretions (sebum) from sborrheic sites(scalp,face,neck,upper chest etc) may indicate a dermatological condition called Seborrheic dermatitis.This is caused by a fungal infection,and can be treated with topical anti fugal agents like ketoconazole,after confirming the diagnosis.This has nothing to do with gum disease.

Kindly see a dermatologist for correct diagnosis and treatment.Meanwhile,frequently washing the area with soap and clean water might offer some help by clearing out excessive sebum.

Hope I have answered your query.
Wishing you good health.
Regards,Dr Aslam.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Muhammed Aslam (2 hours later)

Dr., What about the yeast possibility? I also have it on the backs of my feet, mainly hither toes..... And also in belly button, ears and yes my scalp

Also someone XXXXXXX it was collegen overgrowth
Sorry spelled collegen wrong.

Please let me know about these other opinion.. Thank you very much, Kimberly

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yeast not a possibility

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Sorry for delay;I was a bit busy today.

Regarding yeast infection,it will not present as a diffuse infection like this(you have diffuse involvement of face and neck).Rather,it presents as localized infection in hot,moist ares like inter digital space,axilla,sub mammary space etc or involves mucosa like oral cavity,pharynx,vagina etc.Itching will be prominent in yeast infection;and it will not cause excessive waxy secretion.

Excessive waxy secretion is typical of seborrheic dermatitis.

Regarding your scalp lesions,this also points towards seborrheic dermatitis rather than collagen overgrowth.

In short,waxy,scaly lesions involving scalp and face is strongly suggestive of seborrheic dermatitis.Anyhow,a direct physical examination is crucial in diagnosis.As I told,kindly see a dermatologist for confirmation of diagnosis and treatment.

Hope you will find this answer useful.
Thank you.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E