Understanding Common Hair Conditions

Causes and How to Fix Them 2

Our hair is an integral part of our identity, but it can face challenges that affect its health and appearance. Let’s break down the remaining two common hair conditions—what they are, what causes them, and how to fix them in simple terms.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis manifests as thick, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. It can affect small areas or cover the entire scalp and may even extend to the forehead, back of the neck, or around the ears. The condition can range from mild (slight scaling) to severe (thick plaques and intense itching).

Causes:

Immune System Issues: The immune system speeds up the production of skin cells, leading to buildup.
Genetics: Family history of psoriasis increases your risk.
Triggers: Stress, infections, or scalp injuries can worsen flare-ups.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and alcohol can contribute to the condition.

How to Manage and Treat Scalp Psoriasis

Managing scalp psoriasis requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and gentle hair care practices.

1. Topical Treatments

Medicated Shampoos: Use shampoos containing salicylic acid, coal tar, or ketoconazole to reduce scaling and inflammation.
Steroid-Based Creams: Corticosteroid creams and lotions can quickly reduce inflammation and itching.
Vitamin D Analogues: These creams (like calcipotriol) slow down skin cell production and are often used with steroids.
Coal Tar Products: Coal tar reduces scaling and inflammation, but it may have a strong smell.

2. Phototherapy

UV Light Therapy: Exposing the scalp to controlled amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light can slow down the rapid growth of skin cells. This treatment can be done in a clinical setting or using a hand-held UV comb.

3. Oral or Injectable Medications

For severe cases, systemic medications like methotrexate, cyclosporine, or biologics (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept) may be prescribed. These work by suppressing the immune system to reduce flare-ups.

4. Scalp Care Practices

Gentle Washing: Avoid harsh shampoos or over-washing, which can irritate the scalp further.
Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen inflammation and lead to hair loss.
Moisturize: Use a lightweight scalp moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and reduce dryness.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Healthy Diet: Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and fruits rich in antioxidants.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Avoid Triggers: Identify and minimize triggers such as harsh hair products, smoking, or poor sleep.

Hair Breakage

Hair breakage is a common concern for women, leading to shorter, uneven strands, frizz, and an overall lack of healthy shine. While occasional breakage is normal, excessive or persistent hair breakage can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed. Hair breakage occurs when the hair shaft becomes weak and brittle, causing strands to snap. Unlike hair loss, which involves hair falling out from the root, breakage happens along the hair shaft. This results in split ends, thinning hair, and a lack of length retention.

Causes:

Heat Damage: Overuse of hot tools dries out hair.
Chemical Treatments: Frequent coloring or perming weakens hair.
Poor Diet: Lack of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Tight Hairstyles: Stress from braids, ponytails, or weaves.

How to Prevent Hair Breakage

1. Be Gentle with Your Hair

Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to prevent pulling on strands.
Avoid brushing wet hair, as it’s more prone to breakage.

2. Limit Heat Styling

Use heat tools sparingly, and always apply a heat protectant before styling.
Opt for air drying whenever possible.

3. Moisturize and Hydrate

Use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, especially those with natural oils like argan, coconut, or shea butter.
Apply a deep conditioning treatment weekly to restore moisture and elasticity.

4. Protect Your Hair

Wear a satin or silk scarf/bonnet at night to reduce friction.
Use a leave-in conditioner to shield hair from environmental damage.

5. Choose Protective Styles

Opt for low-manipulation hairstyles that reduce tension and stress on the hair.

6. Eat a Balanced Diet

Incorporate foods rich in protein, vitamins A and C, and omega-3 fatty acids to strengthen hair from within.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water daily.

How to Treat Hair Breakage

Trim Split Ends
- Regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, causing more breakage.
Protein Treatments
- Use a protein-based treatment to strengthen weak strands. Look for keratin-infused products to repair damage.
Replenish Moisture
- Invest in a hydrating hair mask or treatment to restore lost moisture.
Scalp Care
- A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong hair. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or oil treatment to improve scalp health.
Switch to Gentle Hair Care Products
- Avoid shampoos with sulfates and alcohol, as they can dry out hair.

Hair Breakage and Women’s Unique Needs

Women often face unique challenges related to hair breakage due to styling preferences, hormonal changes, and cultural practices. For instance:

Postpartum Hair Breakage: Hormonal fluctuations after pregnancy can lead to temporary dryness and fragility.
Aging and Breakage: With age, hair tends to lose elasticity, making it more prone to snapping.
Styling Practices: Certain cultural hairstyles, like braids or weaves, can contribute to breakage if not managed carefully.

By tailoring your hair care routine to these unique needs, you can effectively minimize breakage and maintain healthy hair.

Conclusion

Hair health reflects not just your grooming routine but also your overall well-being. By understanding these common hair conditions, their causes, and how to address them, you can take proactive steps to maintain strong, beautiful hair. Remember, consistent care, proper nutrition, and consulting professionals when necessary are the keys to overcoming these challenges.

Healthy hair starts with good habits—inside and out!