Q: I have been suffering from severe dandruff for a couple of years. I have tried expensive shampoos but they offer no help to my hair problem. In fact, my problem has become so bad I'm scared of wearing black tops. Please help!
A: Dandruff can be caused by high sebum production, an increase rate of cell multiplication in the epidermal layer and excessive presence of a micro-organism called Pityrosporum. It can also be caused by allergic reaction or extreme dry humidity. Keeping your scalp clean is the best preventive measure and daily shampoo is highly recommended. Medicated shampoo can control a minor scaling problem but frequent usage can aggravate the condition. It is advisable to rinse hair and scalp thoroughly after shampoo.
If condition persists, there could be a more serious underlying scalp disorder. We suggest you consult a trichologist who will be able to help you analyze the problem thoroughly.
Q: I have an oily scalp and I wash my hair twice a day. My forehead is receding and also my top is thinning. I am worried about my physical appearance if this problem persists. Could you please advise me on what I can do to improve my current condition?
A: You are probably suffering from androgenetic thinning (Male Pattern Baldness). This is a hereditary condition. The production of testosterone on the top of the scalp reacts to an enzyme called 5-alpha- reductase converting to di-hydrotestosterone (DHT). Presence of excessive DHT inhibits hair growth or shortens the growth cycle. Stress too, can aggravate the situation. You'll need to have your hair and scalp analysis done by a hair professional - trichologist, to have them look into your scalp.
Q: I'm in my early twenties. I noticed a balding spot in the center of my head and my hair is falling out at an alarming rate. Please tell me what I can do about this problem. It's seriously affecting my confidence.
A: The bald spot mentioned could be an alopecia areata condition whereby a group of white blood cells attack the skin or hair follicles. This problem can be caused by viral infections, vaccinations, trauma to the skin or even stress.
When the hair is falling out at an alarming rate, this could be due to telogen effluvium
* or loose anagen
** syndrome. With this condition, the hair growth cycle is prematurely changed to dying stage. Hence, the normal hair cycle has been altered resulting in heavy hair falls.
It is best to see a trichologist to have a more thorough examination before any forms of treatment can be recommended. Both problems mentioned are temporary and can be helped if treated quickly.
* telogen effluvium - when the hair growing stage changes abruptly to the hair falling stage.
** loose anagen - despite being in the growth cycle, hair can still shed easily.
Q: I have recently given birth and my baby is 3 months old. I am experiencing some hair loss problem. I am told this is temporary due to the hormone changes in my body but I am very worried as I generally do not have thick hair. Can you advise me what I can do to reduce hair loss during this period?
A: During pregnancy, your hair is probably at its best due to hormonal changes. The growth (Anagen) stage is normally prolonged. However after childbirth, the hormonal changes reverse, thus the accumulated amount of hair falls; that should have fallen during pregnancy. The hair that is due to fall will fall, but your concern should be on re-growth. A clean, healthy scalp with balanced diet will help, however, visiting a professional trichologist for a regular check-up will assist to strengthen and nourish hair roots, giving your hair the best texture.
Q: If I am undergoing hair treatment or choose to have a hair weaving service, can I still wash my hair everyday at home, or must I go back to the treatment centres?
A: Typically after treatment, one is advised to leave it on the scalp for at least 12 hours. Therefore, you can still wash your hair daily. As for hair weaving service, there is no restriction to the number of times you choose to shampoo your hair. The hair weave is designed to facilitate self-shampooing. In fact, you may swim, jog and enjoy any other forms of exercises with your new head of hair.
