Hair & Scalp Problems

Each hair grows approximately 1 centimeter per month during growth phase. About 90 percent of the hair on your scalp is growing at any one time and 10% at rest. After 2-3 months, the resting hair falls out and new hair starts to grow in its place. It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, hormonal problems (thyroid problems, PCOD), nutritional deficiencies, auto immune conditions (Alopecia Areata), complication to health problems and certain medications may affect the growth phase and cause abnormal hair loss.

Dandruff by definition is itchy and flaky scalp. The causes of such flaky skin are dry skin conditions, seborrheic dermatitis, Psoriasis, Eczema and sensitivity to hair care products. Normally, new cells take about a month to move from the lowest skin layer to the outermost layer (where they die) and flake off. With psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, the entire life cycle of scalp skin take only days. As a result, cells build up rapidly, forming thick silvery scales and itchy-dry-red patches that are painful.

Overproduction of oil from the sebaceous glands in the scalp may lead to an overgrowth of bacteria. Yeast or fungus overgrowths are also possible and may have an unpleasant odor. Dietary imbalances resulting in constipation or a deficiency of magnesium or zinc may be other causes of scalp odor.

Hair color is produced by tiny cells called melanocytes in the hair follicles. In the course of their lifetime, the activity of the melanocytes in each follicle retards resulting in gray hairs. The appearance of gray hairs may be the result of a persons genetically determined maturational schedule. Each individuals melanocyte-clock is different. Premature graying has also been associated with certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, vitiligo, vitamin B12 deficiency, and anemia.

This itchy infestation, also called pediculosis capitis is spread by coming into contact with either lice or their eggs. Female lice lay seven to 10 eggs (nits) a day. Eggs hatch in about a week, and adult lice will die if they dont feed on blood within two days. Killing lice on your body is not difficult. The challenge is to get rid of all the nits and avoiding contact with other lice.