A number of conditions can affect the human scalp causing hair loss problems, dry or flaking scalp, itching, and lesions. Most of these dry thinning hair problems or outbreaks of inflammation can be treated by a change in hair care habits, with over-the-counter remedies, or by consulting your hair care professional.
Specific Problems, Cures, and Prevention
Below you will find brief descriptions of some of the most common problems affecting the hair and scalp, their symptoms, effects, and possible ways to address the issue. Although many of these conditions can be successfully treated by the individual, be aware that there are times when the assistance of a dermatologist or general practitioner may become necessary.
DANDRUFF
Dandruff, the excessive flaking of dead skin cells from the scalp, can be a problem in its own right or a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, a fungal infection, or even head lice. If the white flakes on the shoulders of your clothing do not disappear after using a special shampoo like Head and Shoulders, you may need to reevaluate the problem.
Although erroneously believed by many to be caused by dry scalp, heavy dandruff actually results when a naturally occurring fungus on the scalp, Malassezia furfur, grows out of control and disrupts the production of new cells. Because the fungus likes the oil produced by the skin, people who have oily scalps are much more likely to suffer from dandruff.
In milder cases of dandruff the cause may be over-active sebaceous (oil) glands, food allergies, a soap or shampoo with too much alkaline, a yeast infection, stress, or even a genetic predisposition for dandruff. Normally a dandruff remedy is nothing more than a specially formulated shampoo. Start with the mild formulas like Head and Shoulders since stronger shampoos like Neutrogena T-Gel contain coal tar and are formulated for more aggressive scalp conditions and should not be used as a dandruff cure.
Dandruff is not made worse by frequent shampooing and it is not responsible for hair loss. The condition is, however, characterized by an itchy scalp. Don't scratch! If the skin becomes irritated or bleeds, the door has been opened for a more serious infection.
DRY FLAKY SCALP
Many times climactic changes cause a dry, flaking scalp. In winter when artificial heaters are running in homes and businesses people are exposed to low humidity on a regular basis and their scalp dries out. Another common cause of dry scalp is a shampoo with a harsh detergent base such as sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate. Over-shampooing will also dry out the scalp and for women who use hair spray the culprit may be the alcohol in the product.
Don't confuse a dry scalp with dandruff. While both conditions cause flaking, a dry scalp feels tight and drawn. If you are experiencing the problem in winter, try running a small humidifier in your bedroom at night. Hair and scalp conditioning are also important. You don't want to produce a chemical build up on your hair, so try a simple conditioning mixture of rosemary essential oils and olive oil. Comb the mixture into wet, clean hair and wrap your head in a warm towel for 45 minutes, then use a mild shampoo. You can work a skin moisturizing product like Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Cream into your scalp at night. Also, read the label of your shampoo and if harsh detergents are present, choose a |
|
