Scalp Inflammation

Question
QUESTION: I have telogen effluvium due to diet reasons. At the beginning of the effluvium, my scalp seemed really itchy and almost like it was burning. I've researched this and I've found that it could possibly be scalp inflammation? However, the redness and burning have mostly gone away and now my scalp is just itchy some of the time. I've also read that this can cause scarring and hair lost will not grow back... is this true?



ANSWER: Hello Kathy:

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia is rare. The most common causes of scarring alopecia are from chemical burns resulting from the use of harsh products such as relaxers, deep untreated scalp infection and lesions caused by discoid lupus.

If your telogen effluvium was caused by nutritional imbalances, correcting the diet should correct the problem.  Once the diet is corrected it may still take 3-6 months to see begin seeing improvements.

There is a condition called burning scalp syndrome also known as scalp dysesthesia or trichodynia, in which for unknown reasons the scalp may feel like it's burning, tingly or itchy. Hair loss may also be present with these symptoms.

You may want to have your scalp examined by an expert who specializes in hair and scalp conditions. If scarring is suspected, a scalp biopsy may be recommended.

Please let me know if I can help you further.

Sincerely, Melanie Vonzabuesnig



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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------



QUESTION: Thanks for your answer!

Also, a couple weeks ago I used the shampoo/conditioner/leave-in treatment Nioxin for 2 weeks. After the two weeks, my scalp dried out and I had red, irritating bumps. I stopped using the treatment but could these be lesions that would cause permanent hair loss?

And since I'm hoping and praying that most of my hair will grow back... do you recommend a shampoo/conditioner that wont clog the hair follicles and that will create a good environment for hair regrowth (which I was hoping for with Nioxin).. are drug store ones okay? Because I've heard they contain wax that will prevent growth...or is that something I should be worried about?

Thanks so much!


Answer
Hi Kathy: The red irritating bumps you experienced was most likely a type of dermatitis and would not be likely to cause any scarring. Because your scalp is in a sensitive condition you are more susceptible to irritation and dermatitis. Right now it is best to use mild products with natural ingredients. Coconut oil scalp massage is often recommended for dry, sensitive, itchy, inflamed scalp. In Ayurveda coconut oil is known to be a "cooling" oil. You may also try rinsing your hair with a TBS of  cider vinegar in your final rinse water. Once the inflammation is gone, you may use more potent treatments.

Sincerely, Melanie Vonzabuesnig



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