Female
Androgenetic Alopecia
Female
Androgenetic Alopecia is characterized by
a thinning of hair in the top/front area
of the scalp. It can be associated with
menopause. It can also be triggered by commencing
or cessation of birth control medication.
We have seen this type of hair loss beginning
as early as age 20. Often, progesterone
in these cases is elevated. It can also
be triggered by hidden male hormones or
similar molecules in our food, drinking
water and pesticides.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects 1-3 percent
of the world's population and it is no respecter
of social levels. Even though it's said
to be genetically linked, other causes can
be involved. For example, certain prescription
drugs, psychological stress, mechanical
trauma, etc. Psoriasis loves to attack the
head but it can be seen in other parts of
the body. It can start in small papules,
which may evolve into a form of a lesion
with slick silvery scales. Psoriasis can
also be permanent in AIDS patients. It can
be seen also on nail beds, hands or feet
or both.
Seborrheic
Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis
is an acute inflammatory condition caused
by overactive oil glands. This condition
(which produces large yellow, oily scales)
has a distinct odor throughout the scalp.
It can exist with or without dandruff but,
in either situation, we find fungal infiltration
of yeast (Pityrosporum). Treatment usually
involves special scalp therapies to remove
scale, inflammation and the presence or
organisms.
Traction Alopecia
Traction
Alopecia is commonly caused by tight ponytails,
braiding, excessive use of head coverings,
or follicular inflammation. This condition
is often seen among Afro-Americans, Afro-Caribbeans
as well as other cultures where head coverings,
beads and other accessories are popular.
Also, over-vigorous brushing and tight rollers
can produce irregular areas of alopecia
on the scalp. Avoidance of this condition
involves developing other hair styling alternatives.
In extreme cases, Traction Alopecia can
result in permanent hair loss (cicatricial
alopecia) if not corrected in time.
