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Your hair is not only a key part of your appearance but also an indicator of your overall health. Healthy hair requires proper care and attention, and understanding the underlying causes of hair issues is essential for proper treatment.
Common Medical Hair Conditions
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Hair loss can occur for various reasons, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, or autoimmune disorders. Common types include androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) and alopecia areata (patchy hair loss).
Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
A common scalp condition that causes white flakes of skin to appear in the hair. It may also be accompanied by itching and irritation. It is typically caused by yeast overgrowth or an overproduction of oil on the scalp.
Scalp Psoriasis
An autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in thick, red patches with silvery scales on the scalp. It can cause itching and discomfort and may extend beyond the scalp to the forehead or neck.
Folliculitis
This is the inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It can cause small red bumps, pustules, or itching and tenderness.
Hair Thinning
A gradual decrease in hair density, often caused by stress, hormonal changes, nutrient deficiencies, or aging. Hair thinning may be diffuse (spread out) or concentrated in certain areas, leading to visible scalp exposure.
Diagnostic Tools
Dermatologists use various diagnostic techniques to identify hair conditions and ensure appropriate treatment:
Trichoscopy (Scalp Examination)
A non-invasive procedure where the scalp is examined under magnification to evaluate the hair follicles, scalp health, and the presence of any abnormalities like inflammation or scaling.
Hair Pull Test
A diagnostic tool where small clusters of hair are gently pulled to see how many strands come out. This helps determine if there is excessive shedding and can point to conditions like telogen effluvium (stress-related hair loss).
Blood Tests to Check Hormone Levels
Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid dysfunction or androgen excess, can contribute to hair loss. Blood tests are done to check for these issues.
Scalp Biopsy
A small sample of scalp tissue is taken and examined under a microscope to determine if there are any underlying skin conditions, such as psoriasis or scarring alopecia.
Treatment Options
Medical dermatology offers a wide array of treatment options:
Medicated Shampoos and Conditioners:
These products contain active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid to treat conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and scalp infections.
Hair Growth Treatments (Minoxidil, Finasteride):
Minoxidil is a topical solution that promotes hair regrowth by stimulating hair follicles, while Finasteride is an oral medication that reduces hormone levels contributing to male-pattern hair loss.
Scalp Treatments (PRP, GFC Therapy):
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC) therapy involve injecting concentrated plasma or growth factors from the patient’s blood into the scalp to promote hair growth and strengthen follicles.
Nutritional Supplements:
Supplements containing biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D can help improve hair health, especially if hair loss is due to nutrient deficiencies.
Hair Transplants:
A surgical procedure where hair follicles from a donor area (typically the back of the head) are transplanted to areas with thinning or no hair. This is commonly used for male-pattern baldness.
Preventative Care
Regular Scalp Care:
Keeping the scalp clean and free from oil buildup is essential to prevent dandruff, folliculitis, and other conditions. Use mild shampoos and exfoliate the scalp occasionally.
Balanced Diet, Rich in Proteins and Vitamins:
Hair is primarily made of protein, so a diet rich in lean proteins (like eggs, fish, and legumes) supports healthy hair growth. Vitamins, particularly B-vitamins, iron, and zinc, are also critical for hair health.
Stress Management:
High levels of stress can lead to hair loss. Incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise can help maintain healthy hair.
Avoiding Excessive Heat Styling:
Overuse of heat tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can weaken hair and cause breakage. It’s essential to minimize heat exposure and use protective products when styling.
Visit Dermatologist if –
It’s important to seek professional help if you experience: