Harsh chemicals can cause scarring alopecia

There are many different types of scarring alopecia or cicatricial alopecia, but today, the focus is on central centrifugal cicatrical alopecia (CCCA).

CCCA is most prevalent among people whose scalps are exposed to the use of harsh chemicals, like hair straighteners, relaxers, tints, perms and other products that contain a high pH balance. In addition to experiencing scalp burns from these chemicals, there is also the possibility that they can trigger an autoimmune action that can lead to CCCA. If this is not treated correctly, it can lead to baldness.

I am always concerned, when I see a child whose hair is relaxed very straight, or whose hair is braided so tightly that the follicle sack is visible, with inflammation, looking painful. I wonder why some mothers are not paying attention, since these issues can cause permanent hair loss from a young age, and can eventually lead to CCCA, particularly when harsh chemicals are added.

I am sure that some of you will remember two brands of relaxers (straighteners) that were used in the 1970s and 80’s. Do you remember that relaxer in the blue bottle with the “J”, or the one in the white bottle with the “G” – which are no longer being manufactured? You will recall that they were so strong that a touch on the scalp caused severe burns. I know people who had to be hospitalised because of these burns to the scalp. This meant that that the top layer of the scalp was damaged.

Those were the days as far as relaxers go. We have come a long way. Don’t you think so? However, since opening my clinic, I have been seeing many women, who would have used, those types of strong straighteners/ relaxers, and are now experiencing bald patches. As a result of these harsh chemicals they have developed CCCA.

In addition, there are women today who are having their hair relaxed, coloured and streaked on the same day.

This may not be wrong if done by a professional.

However, sometimes, in spite of manufacture directions, products are left in the hair for too long, in an attempt to obtain white hair, or, hairlines are touched up too frequently to maintain straightness or colour. Ladies, this type of chemical abuse can eventually lead to the development of CCCA.

I am not saying that you will develop CCCA when you relax or colour your hair. I am advising that abuse of either of these systems can cause CCCA. The good thing is the sooner you adopt better practices, the better your chances are that you may not develop this type of alopecia.

Check your scalp! CCCA starts at the top or crown areas of your scalp.

If your hair is thinning on top, seek help to stop the inflammation from spreading, which can result in permanent hair loss.

In addition, when you are having your hair relaxed, ensure that your scalp is properly protected, and the right strength of relaxer is used. Please do not use permanent hair colours on your scalp the same day that you have it relaxed.

Germaine Williams- Beckles is a doctor of trichology (DT TCT) and a nutrition consultant (NC), Rayogee Wellness Lifestyle, Woodbrook, Portof- Spain, geesexclusive.com or 627-4659. Send your questions to queries@geesexclusive.

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