10 Reasons Why You Maybe Suffering From An Itchy Scalp!

Itchy Scalp – a phrase most commonly associated with Dandruff? Poor hygiene? Winter season? Or is it something more?

An itchy scalp is something that almost everyone is familiar with; a condition that a person would have experienced at some point or the other in their lifetime, whatever the root cause! When your scalp is constantly itchy, it becomes difficult to focus and do things at peace. Highly annoying…scratching your head constantly but finding no relief! Not to mention the absolute embarrassment at being caught scratching and pulling at your hair!

Now, if you have been itching constantly, with no solution in sight, think over, think again… it could be something more than just the winter weather!!

Here are 10 reasons why you maybe suffering from an itchy scalp. Understand the possible root causes, the symptoms and the differences between the various conditions so as to address it effectively!

Dandruff:

Dandruff, simply put, is a scalp problem caused by flaking of skin tissues of the scalp. The result is white flakes appearing all over the scalp and on the hair shafts. While it sounds like a serious scalp concern, it is in fact a natural process of peeling of dead skin cells off the scalp. In most cases, when you have a normal scalp condition, this process goes unnoticed. However, if you are someone with dandruff-scalp, you face a disorder to the process, and often the departing cells are not even dead before leaving the scalp. It is thus the extent and intensity that creates an issue. High and chronic levels of dandruff need fair attention, making tricho anti-dandruff treatment and hair care, a significant need. Do read our blog on the topic to understand this better and how to tackle it right.

Symptoms:

Stress & pollution
Irregular/ imbalanced diet
Improper hair care regimen – improper oiling/washing/shampooing
Not brushing hair enough
Exposure to hard water, bad weather or arc lights

Head Lice

Unlikely that you are unfamiliar with this term or the disaster that it can cause! Lice are tiny, wingless parasitic creatures that live on your scalp & can multiply uncontrollably if not attended to in time. While it is a very common problem seen in children below the age of 12, lice can also be seen on the scalp of adults. They are predominantly found in their mature form, or in the egg-form (nits) behind the ears and along the neckline. Besides they are also found fairly spread across the length of the hair. They pass easily from one head to another, especially in school children.

Symptoms:

Tickling sensation/ A feeling of movement on hair & scalp
Small red bumps on the scalp
Frequent uncontrollable scratching of the scalp – sudden itchy reactions
Irritability every now and then
Visible lice on your hair strands

Sunburn and Sweat:

Constantly scratching your head but unable to spot any other symptom? It’s possible that you are reacting to a sunburn. Being out in bright sun affects your hair as well as scalp thereby burning your skin & causing inflammation. When unprotected the scalp may get heated up and burnt. Dehydration adds to this as well.
The other side of this – sweat. Long hours of physical activity in the sun also make you sweat on the scalp a fair deal. Itchy scalp after heavy workouts at the gym is also quite common! If you do not wash off the sweat and grime accumulated thus, it is bound to cause scalp disorders, all of which would begin with an itch!

Symptoms:

Inflammation & itchiness on the scalp & skin.
Feeling excessively hot on the head.
Scalp irritation when out in the sun – a burning sensation

Allergic reaction to hair products

A frequent feature in recent times. Allergic reactions to hair products. Anyone using a new hair dye or colour or new styling tool can have an allergic reaction causing an itch. If you are someone who follows our blogs, you would read about the hazards of using off-the-shelf hair products without checking on its suitability for your hair and scalp. Many of these products have harmful chemicals, and some may suit on but not the neighbour. Choosing the right product, be it your oil, shampoo, conditioner, hair colour or serum, is best done under the guidance of trichologist. If something doesn’t suit you, you will surely have indications of it on your scalp, starting with an itch or inflammation of your scalp.

Symptoms:

Dry itchy scalp
Scalp irritation when you shower or comb
Burning sensation in parts
Dry brittle hair prone to breakage
Colour and texture change of hair and scalp
Inflammation of the scalp skin in severe cases
Hair fall

Scalp Psoriasis

While white flakes falling off the head is largely presumed to be dandruff , we need to remember that there are other conditions that cause flaking as well. Psoriasis and specifically Scalp Psoriasis is something that often gets confused with dandruff, which is a milder problem than the former. It is also often confused with Eczema or Seborrheic Dermatitis Psoriasis is an auto-immune condition that affects the skin anywhere in the body & even scalp! Scalp Psoriasis can affect both, children as well as adults leading to severe psychological problems if not diagnosed & treated on time.

Symptoms:

Excessive flaking. Constant irritation on the scalp.
Dry, rough patches along the hairline.
Severity – Scalp bleeding after the peeling of scales.
Feeling intense burning on exposure to sun.

Tinea Capitis:

In simple words, Tinea Capitis is a particular type of fungal infection of the scalp, hair shafts & hair follicles. Commonly recognised as a Hair & Scalp problem in young children, this condition leads to forming a ring-shaped mark on the scalp (ringworm). The infecting fungi basically grow from the skin towards the hair in the inner layer & gradually invades the scalp skin. The hair shaft is hence damaged already as it grows out, resulting in breakage and visible black dots.
Moreover, if not addressed on time, it can also massively spread across the scalp causing scarring, scaly red or bald patches all around.
Tinea Capitis has specific clinical indications and only a Trichologist can diagnose the concern correctly.

Symptoms:

Ring-shaped rashes
Formation of scaly red patches and yellow crust on the scalp
Swollen black dots due on the scalp
Painful inflamed nodules on the scalp
Permanent hair loss in very severe cases

Dermatitis

Dandruff is considered as the milder variant of seborrheic dermatitis that causes flaking and scaling of the scalp skin. Dermatitis is a condition that occurs in many forms and can be traced from multiple causes. It is a chronic inflammation on skin usually making the scalp itchy, red, swollen and dry. While there are many types of dermatitis, Seborrheic dermatitis, is perhaps most common. This condition can be treated & cured. It is very often confused with some other skin conditions such as psoriasis, contact/atopic dermatitis, and erythrasma may be confused with seborrheic dermatitis. It is best diagnosed by a trichologist.

Symptoms:

Redness on the scalp with an itchy rash and flaky scales
Eruptions, redness, burning, swelling, and itching on the scalp
Uneven skin lesions
Greasy appearance of skin
Dry flakes that shed easy
Burning or itching of skin and scalp.

Scalp Eczema

Very commonly thought to be a severe case of dandruff, scalp eczema is actually a skin condition that causes inflammation on the scalp, making it itchy and dry. Atopic Dermatitis or Chronic Eczema is persistent and is identified as a serious skin condition – as a disease. When Seborrheic Dermatitis becomes chronic and severe, it can lead to Scalp Eczema. Scalp Eczema cannot be ‘cured’. But can be managed with the help of a trichologist.

Symptoms:

Itching of the scalp – burning sensation when you itch
Severe dryness of scalp
Scaling that is flaky in nature
Redness of scalp
Inflammations on the scalp
Oozing of secretions from lesions, if not treated in initial stages
Colour changes seen on the scalp after the disappearance of a lesion

Alopecia:

This is perhaps an extreme case to be discussed when speaking of an itchy scalp – but it is a possibility. Itchy scalp, along with a bunch of other symptoms, is an indicator of certain types of alopecia. Detecting alopecia is something best left to a trichologist, but watching out for the symptoms to take timely action is your hands. Scarring Alopecia is also a type of alopecia, one of the symptoms of which is itching and burning of the scalp. This alopecia refers to a type of baldness caused by the destruction of hair follicles.
A burning or crawling sensation or excessive itching on the scalp or the body area, before hair loss is a key symptom for most kinds of alopecia. This is something that you may easily confuse with symptoms of other scalp disorders/ conditions which we have discussed above.

Symptoms:

Loss of hair in an unusual pattern of small round patches, that is sudden.
Hair falls out easily just as you touch/feel your hair, or when combing.
Pillow-hair and shower-drain-hair observed often
Rapid spread of such bald patches.

Hair growth visibly affected in other areas as well, for instance on eyelashes or beard.
Excessive itching of the scalp just before hair loss, characterised by a burning or crawling sensation.

Chronic or extensive alopecia sometimes can be associated with the pitting of nails.
Longitudinal cracks observed along the length of the hair shaft and the cuticle are found to be missing. This cannot be observed with naked eyes.

Scalp Folliculitis:

Scalp Folliculitis is an inflammatory condition of the scalp in which the hair follicles get inflamed following an infection. The inflamed scalp hair follicles present as small pustules that appear like acne or pimple with a white head and hence the common reference – scalp acne. The inflamed follicles get very itchy and painful. The condition doesn’t resolve on its own and needs clinical attention.

Symptoms:

Clusters of red bumps that look like pimples near the hair roots
Pus-filled blisters around hair follicles
Sores with yellow/brown scabs
Itchiness and constant scratching on the scalp skin
Loss of hair in a severe form of Scalp Folliculitis
Formation of crusts on the red pustules
Burning or stinging sensation, pain or tenderness

We have only listed out the most possible causes as to why you may be having an itchy or irritated scalp. Only a clear clinical diagnosis can help you in correctly identifying the cause and appropriately treating it. Scalp care is unfortunately not given as much importance as hair care. They are two sides to the coin! Both are equally important!

Can an itchy scalp be prevented? Yes. If there are no serious underlying concerns causing the irritation. Here are some basic pointers on how you can maintain your hair & scalp’s health at large.

Balanced diet to ensure your hair and scalp get all the right nutrients.

Adequate hydration to ensure your hair and body get the water it needs.

Regular oiling to condition and nourish your hair. Not to mention how this process helps curtail the damage caused by daily concerns of pollution and stress.

Using the right shampoo to wash your hair in a set routine.

Conditioning your hair after every hair wash, with the right product.

Deep conditioning periodically to ensure the moisture needed by the hair is sealed within. This will help fight the hair damage caused by styling etc.

Measured use of styling equipment. Avoid applying heat directly onto the hair.

Avoid chemical treatments as these cause extensive damage to the hair and scalp.

Hair colouring with a suitable product, while ensuring a detox treatment is taken periodically to control hair damage.

Ensure that any product used on your hair and scalp is something that is suitable for your hair type – check with your Trichologist.

Periodic hair and scalp check with a trichologist to keep a tab on your hair’s health. Timely identification of symptoms and concerns can help tackle them right. Many conditions are progressive and the health deteriorates as you postpone a consultation. Hair fall can turn into irreversible hair loss if ignored.

Evaluating the degree & intensity of any problem can help decide what treatment would work best & how long it will take to control the same. Visit a reputed clinic and meet a Trichologist who can help you scientifically diagnose your itchy scalp and give you genuine advice.

We hope our blog was helpful in explaining the reasons why you may have an itchy scalp and what can be done about it. So, the next time you feel the itch, book an appointment with a certified & qualified trichologist without a second thought! Don’t forget, getting rid of the itch, begins with finding out why your scalp is itchy in the first place!!

Any question? We are just a call away!

With that, we sign off for now! For all things ‘Hair’, do follow our blogs on hair loss, hair care, treatments and solutions, and interesting hair trivia!
Connect with us on social media on the links below. Do leave your questions & comments and we will address them all!

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Ask the Hair Expert: How do I distinguish Hair Thinning from Hair Loss?

My hair has become so thin. Am having so much hair loss.”

Sounds familiar? You may have heard these words spoken by at least one person in your circle!

Now conceptually, there are finer aspects to these statements. There is Hair Thinning. Then there is Hair Loss. If you understand these aspects scientifically and deal with it in a timely manner, you can save yourself from experiencing and saying the words above!

‘Thinning hair’ and ‘losing hair’ are interchangeably used often. In almost all such conversations what is actually being referred to is the volume of hair – how much are you able to bunch and hold in your hand? This is something we have observed during conversations with our patients. Further, we have received some queries on social media about the difference between the two!

So here we are, back with our ‘Ask the Hair Expert’ series; this time to address your queries on hair thinning and hair loss, to explain the difference between the two and help you tackle your concerns right.

You asked: “Is hair thinning different from hair loss? How do I know if my hair is thinning or if am losing hair? Is reduced hair volume not the same as hair thinning? What can I do to stop my hair from thinning?”

Here’s the answer from the Hair Experts.

Hair Thinning and Hair Loss are two related but different concerns!

A Trichologist can help you understand their meaning, your hair & scalp condition and guide you best on how to keep your hair healthy.

So, let’s begin by understanding what each of these captioned terms mean. We will then discuss common causes, symptoms and what you can do to control the problem.

What is Thinning of Hair?

Thinning of hair actually refers to an earlier stage of hair loss. This is when the hair shaft, individually, starts to grow thinner and finer in diameter with each hair cycle. It is a progressive disorder that is seen in both men and women. Referred to as Male Pattern Thinning (MPT) or Female Pattern Thinning (FPT), hair thinning happens in both, but the pattern in which the hair thins (and is lost, if ignored!) is different.

In the case of MPT, the pattern is characteristically U-shaped. It starts with thinning on the crown or a receding hairline, which advances to thin the top of the head. In the case of FPT, thinning is seen in the fronto-vertex (centero-parietal) region (atop of the frontal region). The frontal hairline is spared in most cases.

When hair thinning progresses, unattended, it reaches a point where the hair shaft becomes so thin that it becomes ‘vellus’ (hair that is very light, short and superfine…invisible to the human eye even).

What about Hair loss?

When MPT or FPT is observed, and not attended to, over a period of time, it leads to permanent hair loss.

Thinning, which is referred to as Androgenic Alopecia is always irreversible and has to be distinguished from hair fall. Hair fall could be when hair sheds from its roots or hair breakage from the shaft. Hair fall is mostly reversible with a course correction.

Androgenetic/ Androgenic Alopecia is perhaps the most common form of Alopecia that affects both men and women. MPT and FPT are forms of this condition. It relates to the genetic structure and hormonal activity in the body.

Hair thinning, MPT or FPT, over a period of time, progresses, and in some may even lead to baldness.

What causes thinning of hair?

The most common and recognisable causes of hair thinning are as follows:

Hereditary/ Genetic predisposition

Nutritional and immune system deficiencies

Crash dieting leading to sudden weight loss

Emotional or physical stress

 Lack of sleep

Unhealthy lifestyle

Hormonal imbalance and disorders – Thyroid disorder, PCOD etc

Ageing (esp when predisposed to balding, genetically)

Use of anabolic steroids or other supplements to gain lean muscle mass

Unchecked self-medication

Prolonged use of steroids

Use of contraceptive drugs and any gynecological ailments in women

Certain acute illnesses like typhoid, malaria, jaundice, TB generally aggravate the problem of hair thinning leading to hair loss.

Other underlying medical conditions…

Hair Thinning is typically caused as an effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is an androgen produced as a byproduct of testosterone. It binds the receptors in the scalp (especially in those genetically susceptible to the condition) and on the hair follicles. DHT is thought to cause hair follicles to miniaturize, and this contributes to pattern thinning. DHT blockers are hence used to treat hair thinning. While DHT is recognised as a popular culprit, the reason for hair thinning could be other conditions as well.

Hair fall as such has to do with the A/T ratio (anagen-telogen ratio) that indicates the rate of hair growth and fall on your scalp. Do read our blog on the hair growth cycle and hair anatomy to understand the concept better.

During the hair growth cycle, your hair grows thinner and falls out during the Telogen phase. New hair then gets generated and it replaces the lost hair. As you age, naturally, the rate at which new hair replaces the fallen hair slows down. When you age, each hair spends more time in the resting phase, which means you shed hair faster than the speed at which the growth is happening. It is also to be noted that hair follicles, too, decrease in size with age. They hence produce finer/thinner hair, leading to an appearance of varying degrees of baldness. This is especially the case in men.

While thinning of hair is a natural sign of ageing and need not necessarily indicate any major problem, it is good to be on the watch out.

Hormonal changes in the body as you age also impact the hair growth cycle and the duration of each of the three phases that your hair normally goes through. For instance, it is fairly common for women undergoing menopause to experience both hair thinning and hair loss. Also, while the hair on the scalp sees thinning, facial hair may become more noticeable, due to a decrease in estrogen.

It is important to point out that hair thinning is now a growing concern in the younger population thanks to erratic lifestyles, excessive styling, and improper hair care.

MPT and FPT are the most common cause of hair loss. While it typically should start when one is in the 40s, off lately we have been helping patients facing such issues even in their late 20s and early 30s!

Remember, that thinning is progressive and only when unattended it leads to permanent hair loss, something that can become irreversible. It would be prudent to watch out for the signs and address them at the earliest. Do read our blogs on hair loss in men and women, to understand this better.

Symptoms of hair thinning

Here are some of the tell-tale signs of hair thinning.

Hair thinning all over (in women)

Receding hairline (in men)

Decreased density

Scanty hair

Decreased volume

Wider center parting

Loss of hair on the scalp

Itchy, flaky scalp

Slow or lack of hair growth

The early symptoms of MPT or FPT that can be verified by a Trichologist are

Pattern of thinning

Receding Hairline

Reduced follicular count

The distance between the hair follicle increasing

The diameter of the hair decreasing

Length of the hair shortening

Solutions to tackling hair thinning are aplenty now thanks to advancements in the field of trichology. You have pioneers such as RichFeel in India providing a variety of personalised solutions to handle hair thinning and hair loss. So do not hesitate to seek professional help. The sooner you intervene the better you can manage your hair’s health and life.

Tricho Treatments to combat hair thinning

Thanks to the growth of Trichology as a science, there are scientific solutions to your hair and scalp problems. Treatments and solutions are now available to tackle hair thinning, hair fall, baldness – both surgical and non-surgical solutions, instant permanent scalp covers, hair colour damage treatment and hair fibers that can camouflage your scalp in 30 seconds!

Treating thinning of hair starts with a consultation with the trichologist to identify the root cause of thinning and the level of progression. It is only after a clear diagnosis that appropriate treatment is initiated.

The treatment for Pattern Thinning is traditionally based on the principle of postponing /delaying the progress of thinning, eventually hair loss and balding.

It typically consists of two lines of treatments a) Pharmaceutical DHT blockers OR b) The use of natural DHT blockers. Most Trichologists are encouraging the use of natural DHT blocker treatment. Given the advancements in the field, there are various options available in this area.

In terms of clinical treatments, traditionally PRP (Platelet-rich Plasma) is suggested for hair thinning. It is a regenerative therapy that uses the natural growth factors that our body possesses to heal damaged tissues. In essence, it uses one’s own natural healing system. It is, however, an invasive treatment that comes with its own side effects.

Recent advancements in Trichology have seen breakthrough use to Plant Stem Cell technology to fight the signs of hair thinning. This has gradually started replacing the PRP methodology.

Plant Stem cells are a remarkable source for the continuous regeneration of the epidermis, the formation of new hair and even hair pigments. Treatments that use active plant stem cell technology work to delay ageing, reduce the hair follicle regression, induce the formation of hair follicles and increase the lifespan of hair follicles so that the hair can stay longer in the anagen phase of the hair. This not only reduces hair loss but restores hair regeneration.

The brilliant thing about hair treatments that use plant stem cell technology is that unlike PRP hair treatments, these are holistic in their approach, absolutely non-invasive and perhaps the safest way to regenerate hair growth. Do read our blog on the topic to understand such treatment better.

Half-yearly Tricho check-up

A consultation with the Trichologist can help with the right diagnosis and course of treatment/solution for you at the right time. As discussed above, hair thinning is a progressive problem. It is only when it is ignored that it leads to hair loss and eventually baldness.

Just as you have an annual health check-up or a quarterly dental clean-up, do chart a half-yearly tricho check-up in your calendar. This simple exercise can be a great game-changer for you and your hair. This would help keep track of changes that your body, as you age, is going through (and the impact of it on your hair) and help intervene in a timely manner when required. Having regular check-ups will ensure that you spot the signs of hair thinning, professionally, at the right time and curb the problem while you can.

Trust that reading this blog has clarified the difference between hair thinning and hair loss! There is indeed a distinction!

And with that, we sign off today! For more on hair & scalp concerns, and for all things ‘Hair’, do follow our blogs on hair loss, hair care, treatments & solutions, and interesting hair trivia!

Connect with us on social media on the links below. Do leave your questions & comments and we will address them all, just as we have done today!

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Understand Scalp Folliculitis – Causes, Symptoms & Solutions

We all know of Acne. And Pimples. A big enemy to our faces. Especially during puberty!

Now, did you know that you could get acne on your scalp?

Yes. Scalp Acne exists. It is a form of Folliculitis, a condition that is more common than one would think! If you look the term up, Google will tell you that there are more than 10 million people affected by this per year (India).

It affects your scalp a great extent, can lead to hair loss and it can be a very painful experience. It not just affects you physically but also psychologically as you struggle with it. Just as the acne on your face!

Since not many are aware of this condition for what it is or deduce it to be something which is an extension of pimples or acne, it is unfortunately ignored or attended to with ‘home remedies’ until it’s very late. By waiting, or trying out things on your own to seemingly treat it, you may be aggravating your condition without realising it.

You may be using a product that is reacting negatively with your scalp…You may be scrubbing/scratching your scalp more than you should, while washing or otherwise, making things worse… You may be showering with hot water wanting to soothe the discomfort, but in truth worsening the condition as anything more than warm is not advised… And so on.

As we always say, awareness is the key to tackling a problem head-on, in a timely manner. And today, we are breaking this specific condition down for you, to understand it easily. We will also explain the recommended scalp acne treatment.

What is Scalp Folliculitis?

Folliculitis refers to the inflammation and infection of the skin around one or more hair follicles. Hair follicles, as you may be aware, are the pockets of opening from which your hair shaft grows out. They are the roots of your hair. Do read our blog on hair anatomy for better understanding.

Scalp Folliculitis is an inflammatory condition of the scalp in which the hair follicles get inflamed following an infection. Clinically it is defined as the presence of inflammatory cells within the wall and ostia of the hair follicle, creating a follicular-based pustule. The microorganisms causing Scalp Folliculitis infection include bacteria like staphylococcus aureus and pseudomonas, or fungi like Dermatophytes and Pityrosporum folliculate, and viruses like molluscum contangiosum and herpes simplex.

The inflamed scalp hair follicles present as small pustules that appear like acne or pimple with a white head and hence the common reference – scalp acne. The inflamed follicles get very itchy and painful.

It is often associated with acne and it also responds to the therapy used for the treatment of acne vulgaris. The acne-causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes is also thought to be responsible for causing infection and inflammation of the scalp hair follicle. It is thus known to be more common in those who are prone to acne. Further, also in those who regularly use topical steroid creams.

Scalp Folliculitis gets very troublesome and also embarrassing, especially when the red pustules appear on the frontal hairline. When not attended to immediately, it can become a severe infection, causing permanent hair loss and scarring. Very rarely does the condition, even when mild, resolve on its own.

You need a professional to diagnosis this right for you. A trichologist can perhaps spot the condition by just looking at your scalp, while you are busy scratching your head (quite literally here!) wondering about what it could be!

What are the commonly known Scalp Folliculitis causes?

While the exact etiology and scalp acne causes are not specifically known, experts believe that Scalp Folliculitis is caused due to inflammation of hair follicles mainly following microbial infection. It is usually caused by a fungal or bacterial infection that occurs when you damage your hair follicles. Viruses, bacteria, yeast or fungi, mites are the usual suspects.

Although infection is the main cause of Scalp Folliculitis, other factors that irritate the scalp skin are likely to increase the chances of hair follicle infection. The other external factors that could increase the risk of this condition include,

Excessive use of hair cosmetics such as hair oils, styling products, shampoos, etc. that could irritate the skin of the scalp and cause inflammation.

Using public swimming pools or sharing other hygiene items that are not clean.

Having an injury such as cuts or bruises on the scalp which could get infected and further spread to hair follicles.

Illnesses that lower the immune power of the body. E.g. Cancer or HIV infection.

Autoimmunity disorders trigger Folliculitis Decalvans leading to Scarring alopecia.

The condition could affect anyone. However, there are some risk factors that can make one more prone to it than others. Also, it can be observed in any part of the body, but since the scalp has the maximum number of hair follicles, it is the most common site for Folliculitis.

Following are some risk factors that can aggravate Scalp Folliculitis:

Having acne breakouts

Male gender

Having thick and curly hair especially, in men

Weakened immunity system

Wearing tight caps or scarves that increase sweating on the scalp, for instance, wearing helmets for a long time

Inflammation of the scalp skin and hair follicles, occurring due to frequent shaving

consuming certain medications for acne, including steroid creams or antibiotic therapy

Considering the position of these pimples, you may not be able to quite see them as is. You may be only feeling it, and experiencing the discomfort. Your trichologist can help diagnose the problem by getting a proper view of the scalp through capilloscopy, and also identify the triggers for you.

What are the common symptoms?

Some of the typical Scalp Folliculitis symptoms include,

Clusters of red bumps that look like pimples near the hair roots

Pus-filled blisters around hair follicles

Sores with yellow/brown scabs

Itchiness and constant scratching on the scalp skin

Loss of hair in a severe form of Scalp Folliculitis

Formation of crusts on the red pustules

Burning or stinging sensation, pain or tenderness

Receding hairline especially when the pustules are formed along the hairline

Rupture of pustules casing abscess in severe deep Scalp Folliculitis

Some of these symptoms can overlap with other scalp infections/ conditions, along with other factors. A correct diagnosis can be drawn only by a Trichologist, a trained professional who understands all things ‘hair and scalp’! The diagnosis of the condition rolls out as below:

A careful examination of the scalp and hair.

The trichologist examines the appearance of red spots and pustules at the base of the hair.

Your medical history is reviewed to find out if there are any other underlying conditions that could be causing infections to the hair follicles.

Trichologist may perform dermoscopy of the scalp, which is a microscopic examination of scalp skin.

A sample of infected skin and hair is taken to perform a swab test. This helps to identify the microorganism responsible for causing infection of hair follicles.

In very rare cases, some skin may be scraped off to send the sample for biopsy testing. This helps to rule out the possibility of other diseases of the scalp and also confirms the diagnosis of Scalp Folliculitis.

The clear understanding of the severity of the condition, physical and clinical examination, identifying the root cause, and understanding the lifestyle of the individual, will help the Trichologist in addressing it with the most appropriate treatment. A consultation is thus very crucial to addressing the problem right.

Can Scalp Folliculitis be cured? What are the possible solutions?

Yes. Scalp Folliculitis can be cured, when attended to professionally without delay.

Scalp Folliculitis solution or scalp acne treatment depends upon the severity of the condition. Since it is mainly caused due to microbial infection, medications to cure the infection become necessary. Other treatments such as surgery or laser hair removal may be needed in some cases.

In most cases topical antibacterial or antifungals in the form of lotions, creams, sprays or shampoos are prescribed to control the infections. Ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, ketoconazole or ciclopirox, tea tree oil, and jojoba oil have been observed to be helpful as scalp acne remedies.

The common antimicrobial agents include tetracycline, fusidic acid gel, erythromycin solution. Staphylococcus is the most common causative organism, hence anti-staphylococcal agents such as mupirocin or retapamulin ointment; topical clindamycin solution/lotion may be prescribed by the trichologist after personal consultation. Oral medication is mostly avoided. This apart, you will also be advised on a suitable hair care regimen and the products that would suit your condition best.

It all boils down to getting a timely, accurate diagnosis, as most of the symptoms overlap with many other scalp conditions. It thus needs to be effectively treated, with professional intervention.

How can scalp acne be prevented?

Here are some basic tips to help prevent the condition,

Avoid wearing tight caps, hats, scarfs, or other materials to avoid friction on the scalp

While shaving your scalp hair make sure not to shave too closely

While using public swimming pools, take a thorough shampoo wash once out from the pool

Avoid pulling your hair into tight ponytails or braids

Wash your hair regularly with a mild shampoo

Avoid excessive use of hair styling products

Avoid sharing hygiene items such as comb, hairbrushes, towels, etc.

Clean hairbrushes and comb thoroughly after using

Self-diagnosis and medication is definitely not something that we would advise for tackling this condition. Trichologists will not just prescribe you medicines and treatments, but also advise on dos and don’ts as regards your lifestyle, routine habits & very importantly, your diet. In case the condition is due to specific irritants/allergens that are causing the hair follicles to be affected, the hair doctor will also help you isolate and stay clear of those.

We would also suggest that a half-yearly Trichology Check is made a part of your calendar, just as your annual general check-up, to keep a tab on the hair and scalp condition, and stay clear of concerns.

Do read our pages with more information on the discussed topics and reach out to us for any further clarifications or simply for a chat with our experts! Remember for all things ‘Hair’, do follow our blogs on hair loss, hair care, laser hair reduction, treatments and solutions, and such other interesting hair trivia!

Connect with us on social media on the links below. Do leave your questions & comments and we will address them all.

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