Skip to main content

Scalp Conditions

The most important group of hormones that influence hair growth, scalp conditions and hair loss is the male sex hormone, testosterone, “Androgens” as they are known. The primary cause of hair loss for men and women all around the world is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a powerful hormone formed by an enzymatic reaction with tissue responsive scalp skin.

Paying special attention to the scalp is essential for people who are experiencing hair loss or scalp disorders. In Trichology, we focus on the importance of a therapeutic scalp regime,. This consists of organic shampoos, conditioners, vitamins/minerals and amino acids that help nourish and activate the hair follicle to produce healthy strong hair.

Dandruff is the most misdiagnosed scaly disorder and used as a blanket term for most scaly issues. Dandruff is very light and powdery. It is a normal condition that everyone has to some degree. Skin cells on the body are manufactured constantly to replace those that have outlived their usefulness and die. Dead cells are continually shed as new ones are being pushed up from the deeper layers in a never ending process of cell division.

Due to this cycle, you can never really get rid of dandruff because the scalp makes a new supply of flakes about every three to four days. The causes are unknown common factors; germs, bacteria, fungi living on the scalp, excessive production of oil from the sebaceous glands, allergies, poor hygiene, irritation from sulfate based shampoos, colour and relaxers applied to the scalp.

As with the hair, these problems can be symptomatic of some other metabolic variation. Stress, poor diet, or even some allergies to certain foods, can be responsible for the buildup and shedding of dead skin cells.  The management of hair and scalp that are excessively oily is another area in which the advice of a qualified Trichologist is often sought. Guidance on the right type of shampoo for any particular individual, and on its frequency of use, might be particularly relevant.

Many infants, during the first three months of life, develop a matted, crusted scale of the scalp, with reddening. Some also develop simultaneous scaling and reddening behind the ears and on the neck. A rash may sometimes accompany the condition. Cradle cap is a form of Seborrheic Dermatitis and is fairly easily controlled, but not cured. In most cases, cure will eventually occur spontaneously, but if the condition persist consult a Trichologist.

Psoriasis is a common scaling skin disease which affects around one to two percent of the population. Most Psoriasis sufferers will develop problems of the scalp at some time, and the condition is both distressing and cosmetically disfiguring. However, Psoriasis does not generally cause permanent loss of hair.

Psoriasis is patches of red inflamed skin covered by silvery white scales. It is often precipitated by upper respiratory infections, strep throat, alcohol use, certain oral medications (lithium and antimalarial drugs).

Seborrhea Dermatitis skin has a thick crust, the cause is unknown but theories are: dietary indiscretion, environmental factors, hereditary predisposition. Avoid white and refined foods: sugar, sodium, cow's milk (only organic), fried foods, juices, soft drinks. Replace with raw fruits, vegetables, baked or grilled meats.

This scaly disorder has two distinct characteristics.  In its first stage it oozes from the scalp and has an odour. In the second stage the scales stick to the scalp and hair and are difficult to remove.