Bacteria can infect stylist, customers

To appreciate the concept of folliculitis, we need to understand the networking system that controls the hair. In doing so, we are reminded that there are two main divisions of hair – the hair root and the hair shaft. The hair root consists of follicle, papilla, epidermal cells and blood vessels, immune cells (Langerhans cells) etc.

• The hair follicle is a tube-like depression, from which a group of cells, called epidermal cells emerge. It anchors each hair into the skin. It extends from the surface into the dermis and contains the hair root or the dermal papilla.

• The dermal papilla is a bulb that forms at the base of the hair, below the follicle.

• In the papilla, living cells (epidermal) divide and grow to build the hair shaft, pushing it toward the surface, extending away from the skin.

• Blood vessels nourish the cells in the papilla, and deliver hormones that modify hair growth and structure at different times of life.

* With the immune cells (Langerhans cells), it is important to know that the hair follicle is not only to grow cells but the gateway for the body’s immune response to fungus or bacteria.

The hair shaft is composed of dead epidermal cells, which has three parts, the cuticle, the cortex and the medulla.

• The cuticle is the outmost part of the hair that shines and protects the inner part of the shaft as well as the scalp.

• The cortex is where the strength of the hair is. This is where we penetrate to alter the hair and change the texture.

• The medulla is the middle part of the hair shaft, some hair strand have no medulla when it’s too fine in texture.

Folliculitis first appears as scattered pimples that later dry out and form crusts around the hair follicle causing the affected area to be very itchy. In most cases folliculitis is caused by streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria. Yes, they are the bacteria or fungi that infect the follicle.

This type of scalp disorder can cause contamination to the hair stylist as well as anyone who comes into contact with combs or brushes that may have been used on the affected area and not properly sanitised.

Do not irritate the area by using a comb or scratch with finger nails, as this compounds the problem and increase the area or size of inflammation. Whenever I encounter this disorder I immediately refer the client to a dermatologist or medical practitioner. Folliculitis should never be handled in the hair salon.

Generally care must be taken with all contagious scalp and skin disorders. Hairstylists must engage in extreme hygiene practices to avoid infecting clients. Some hair and scalp problems that I see can be avoided. Whether problems are internal or external, it is to our benefit to be aware of these factors and the role they play in determining the health of your hair and scalp.

Germaine Williams Beckles is a Doctor of Trichology (DT) http://www.geesexclusive.com

For more info: 627-4659 or email your questions at queries@geesexclusive.com.