Be careful with contagious hair, scalp diseases

Before I go into this week’s topic, I need to make a correction on my response to last week’s question. Trichology originated in London in 1902 and not 1992 as printed. Over the past weeks we discussed the signs and symptoms of different types of hair loss. Before I close this series I want to address a highly contagious, inflammatory disorder of the hair follicle that is called Folliculitis. It 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 staphyloccos bacteria. Yes bacteria... This type of scalp disorder can cause contamination to the hairstylist 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. 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 hair and scalp. Androgenetic Alopecia accounts for more than 85 per cent of hair loss. You should note that there is a distinct difference between alopecia (hair loss) and trichoptilosis (hair breakage). We know that we are experiencing hair loss when we see a small white bulb or root at the end of the hair strand. Hair breakage is when the hair fractures at the end or at any point through the length of the hair strand. Emotional and physical stress as well as the use of certain drugs speed up some processes that may result in hair loss. Aspirin, beta-blockers and blood thinners, used over long periods will retard hair growth. There is also a microscopic bug called demodex that nestles inside the hair follicle and feeds on the sebum (natural oils). When this bug is present your hair will look lifeless. This is seen mainly in persons who are over 50 years old. (Consultation and microscopic examinations are important in determining this condition).

Everyone wants healthy, strong and shiny hair that is pleasing to touch. “Two heads are better than one” is an old saying of which we are all aware. However, Barry Fletcher says “when it comes to hair and such problems three heads may be more significant...you, your hair stylist and medical physician or your trichologist.” That is something to think about. Healthy hair begins with how we view it. I hope that through this series you are now empowered with a better understanding of your hair and scalp. Remember that signs are what you see and symptoms are what you feel. Before any true manifestation of a disorder you should be able to recognise when you need help before it is too late. Any questions about anything that I have written over the past 12 weeks can be forwarded to the newspaper or my telephone contact and I will respond as soon as I can. Thank you all for your positive comments. I am happy to have been of assistance to you.

Hair still dropping

Dear Germaine,
I am 20 and my hair has been dropping for two to three years now. I am seeing a trichologist about my plight for a few months now. She interviewed me thoroughly and put me on a programme including supplements, organic root stimulator and serum. However, I am not satisfied with my progress. Actually my hair is dropping just as much and my scalp is showing more and more. I have not given complete hope on my trichologist. In your article you mention “there is hope.” To what extent is this hope?  Will the hair I have remain or the hair gets thicker or is there full growth?
KV

Dear KV,
Unfortunately, since your problem is very specific I cannot respond in general terms. As you said, you were interviewed by your trichologist. In my earlier articles I stressed the importance of this interview. There is a lot that I will need to know about you, your medical history and your family before I can make recommendations. In keeping with the theory of “three heads are better than one,” I suggest that you ask your trichologist to give me a call and together we may be able to look at alternatives. With respect to the products you asked about, one is nutritional the other is only for external use.

Germaine Williams-Beckles is a certified trichologist. If you have concerns about hair and scalp problems send your queries to news@newsday.co.tt or call 625-6774.