Scalp Problems

There are numerous scalp disorders that trichologists treat. They include pityriasis amiantacea, seborrhoeic dermatitis, dandruff and psoriasis. Psoriasis is by far the most common scalp issue trichologists encounter.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune problem, which means that one group of white blood cells attacks some cells in the skin or hair. (Millions of different groups of white blood cells circulate in the blood and lymphatic system. They help protect the body from attack by viruses, bacteria and other micro-organisms.) People who experience psoriasis have a genetic predisposition for the problem. However, it still takes something to trigger the problem. The trigger could be a viral or bacterial infection, a vaccination, stress, trauma to the skin or exposure to a substance not previously encountered. Stress can influence psoriasis through its effects on the sympathetic nervous system. Stress causes sympathetic nerves to increase their production of noradrenaline in the skin, which increases the autoimmune reaction. 

Pityriasis amiantacea appears as sticky, yellow or silverfish scales which encircle the shafts of the hair and can bind down tufts of hair. Prior to treatment, the scales are often described by patients as very difficult to remove. The cause of this condition is unknown, although thought to possibly be autoimmune. 

Seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff cause rough, itchy, scaly patches of skin, often on the scalp and in other oily areas (eg. Face, nose, eyebrows). Seborrhoeic dermatitis appears to be related to excessive production of sebum (oil) and the breaking down of this sebum by yeasts on the scalp (like Malassezia Globosa). The breaking down of the oil by yeasts irritates the scalp and causes the itching sensation. Seborrhoeic dermatitis and psoriasis are often confused. A trichologist will be able to correctly diagnose the problem and advise on treatment.

Chelcey Salinger IAT

Member, International Association of Trichologists