Sanitise to prevent infection

It is for this reason that I always stress that you will not obtain overnight results when treating hair loss or scalp conditions.

This is something that you must be aware of.

Folliculitis is a bacterial infection of the follicle and can be a little troublesome. If not handled with care it can spread. In addition, some people attempt to squeeze the yellow pimples or bumps that appear on the scalp.

This is not a suitable approach in treating with any type of scalp disorder.

Folliculitis decalvan is a severe infection of the hair follicles that is contagious. According to the advance state of the infection, one may experience multiple strands of hair, growing out of the same follicle. This type of scalp infection can be mistaken for tinea capitis (ring worm), which is also a contagious condition.

As a result, special care is required during treatment, since it can be easily spread through contaminated implements. It is important to sanitise all tools and towels used and keep a keen eye with new clients as well as returning clients, to avoid the spread of this scalp infection.

It is for this reason that treatment should never take place in the beauty or hair salon at all.

Once this is observed, the client should be sent immediately for medical attention, so that the medical practitioner can prescribe the most appropriate medication – oral and topical.

As mentioned before, both the folliculitis decalvan and the tinea capitis, are often mistaken one for the other, to the unfamiliar eye, as both exhibit signs of itching and inflammation in the areas of infection. Hence a second opinion is recommended.

Without prompt and effective treatment, the fungus can cause hair loss. I mostly see tinea capitis (ring worm) in children and men with very low haircuts, which are marked or outlined. If the hair cutting tools, combs and hands are not sanitised after use on each client, it could be easily spread.

It is normal for children to play with each other, and touch every surface they come into contact with, and these are other ways that tinea capitis can be spread, so it is important to be observant, once there are spot or changes on the skin. I know of a case in which a child contracted tinea capitis from travelling in a taxi. From just the simple act that everyone does, which is to relax and place our head back, not aware of who sat there before, an infection can spread. In this case someone with the infection sat and rested their head on the seat before the child got into the car. The fungi remained behind and infected the child, so please be aware of your surroundings. To all beauty professionals: Be mindful of self-care, as an unsanitary hand, can spread the fungus from one client to another, and to you.

Some people, may not know that they can infect themselves, and their community, which includes other workers in the beauty shop by the simple act of forgetting to sanitise. Remember, self-care, sanitisation and protection is most important when handling clients in the beauty industry.

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

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