The scalp, just like the rest of the body, depends on the fuel it receives – food. Of course, it is not only diet that affects the condition of our scalp. Hormones and the right hair care routine also play a role. What can we learn about our health from the condition of our scalp?
The dry and flaky scalp is one of the most common skin conditions. They occur when the scalp is washed with too warm water or the wrong cosmetics. Cold winter air can also cause these symptoms. And in summer, it is advisable to watch out for sunburn and protect your hair with a suitable cover.
As for our health, this symptom may indicate dehydration and malnutrition of the body, and even bulimia and anorexia. In addition, it also occurs with hyperthyroidism, diabetes and atherosclerosis of the vessels
Excessive itching of the scalp can occur in the elderly as well as in pregnant women. It may accompany such diseases as psoriasis, diabetes, allergic diseases, AD, parasites, thyroid, kidney, nervous system, and liver disorders.
The most common scalp disease is dandruff. The symptoms of dandruff are very characteristic. Dandruff consists of itching and flaking of the scalp in the form of white flakes. There is also another type of dandruff – greasy dandruff. In this case, the flakes are yellow and stick to the scalp, forming an unsightly crust. Dandruff may also cause hair loss.
Occasionally, dandruff may appear on the skin as dandruff with yellow-brown spots.
Yeasts overgrow on the scalp and cause skin disease. It’s important to be quick about dandruff because it can turn into seborrheic dermatitis, which is very difficult to treat.
This is a serious disease of the scalp. The characteristic symptoms are severe itching, severe flaking of the skin and erythema. The cause can be untreated dandruff, but also a lowered immune system or HIV infection. It is worth remembering that Psoriasis tends to recur. It is very important to act according to the dermatologist’s recommendations.
Psoriasis is primarily scalp desquamation and dryness, accompanied by raised, scaly reddish-brown patches. It is usually a genetic condition, but can also depend on autoimmune scalp diseases. Infections, trauma, pregnancy, stress, certain medications, heavy alcohol consumption, and even getting a tattoo can also be a cause of psoriasis.
In this case, it is advisable to include a two-pronged treatment. The use of ointments and preparations prescribed by a dermatologist, as well as a light diet, is a combination that is sure to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis.
Tinea capitis is caused by fungi of the Microsporum canis and Trichophyton tonsurans families. Symptoms of tinea include itching and skin lesions. Tinea capitis progresses in three stages depending on the degree of fungal proliferation. In the first, it causes thinning on the scalp. The second involves not only the scalp but also the hair, and it may move to the neck, neck, shoulders and hands. The third, and least common, is tinea capitis, which is characterized by yellow scabs on the scalp.
The first is weakened immunity caused by long-term antibiotic and glucocorticosteroid intake. Another is immunodeficiency due to leukemia, DiGeorge syndrome or even HIV infection. If one does not take care of the hygiene of the scalp, symptoms of ringworm may appear in a mild degree.
Only a specialist can properly diagnose and select treatment for tinea capitis. Once you notice the disturbing symptoms, you should see him as soon as possible.
The scalp is a reflection of the condition of our body. To begin with, the scalp, just like the face, can be dry, oily or sensitive. A trichologist looking through a high magnification camera can also spot an autoimmune disease, see empty hair follicles suggestive of baldness or pigmented lesions called honeycombs. Often after various diseases the scalp stops producing hair and 3-4 months after the disease we notice reversible hair loss, which often causes fear in patients
– explains Emilia Wieczorkowska, trychologist
Hormones are usually responsible for balding of the scalp, especially in men. Androgen and DHT are hormones whose increased level causes hair loss in men but also in women. At first, hair curves appear and start to grow. It is then worth implementing treatment. The recommended treatment is minoxidil, which stimulates mitosis of hair follicle cells.
The second variety of alopecia areata is a severe autoimmune disease. The disease usually involves the whole body, but begins with the head. It sometimes appears in the company of nail disease, cataracts or graying hair. It is very difficult to deal with alopecia areata. Each case is different and it is advisable to consult a doctor for treatment.
Alopecia can be triggered by genetic factors, but also by diet, severe stress and excessive styling and weighting of the hair.
OUR EXPERT: Cosmetologist and Trichologist – EmiliA Wieczorkowska
A graduate of the Higher School of Engineering and Health Sciences in Warsaw, majoring in cosmetology. She completed postgraduate studies in trichology at the Jagiellonian University. So far she has gained experience in Warsaw aesthetic medicine clinics, numerous courses and congresses. In her treatment protocols she combines the best technologies with the latest research results. She is an advocate of conscious skin care, therefore during consultations she always shares her knowledge and helps to choose the right cosmetics for the current state of both the face and the scalp. Associated with the Warsaw Clinic of Aesthetic Medicine and Plastic Surgery OT.CO Clinic.
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