The scalp doesn’t get the attention it deserves. With regards to hair-loss, so much attention is paid to the hair and caring for it; that too often we neglect to think of caring for the scalp.
This is a huge mistake. The scalp – and the hair follicles just underneath its surface – is the engine-room of hair and its growth.
Because of this negligence, a plethora of different scalp conditions can arise; which can have some seriously dramatic consequences both on hair health – and on the likelihood of developing some form of hair loss.
One of the most common scalp problems? Scalp Folliculitis.
What Is Scalp Folliculitis?
Scalp Folliculitis is an inflammatory condition, which affects the scalp’s hair follicles.
The condition is typified by the presence of small, white-and-red pimple-like bumps and pustules, which can erupt suddenly from the skin of the scalp.
Symptoms can include:
- Itchiness of the scalp and surrounding areas – in many cases this can lead to scratching, which only worsens things
- Redness, soreness and tenderness of the affected area; this can cause severe distraction and discomfort
- Uncomfortable bumps and masses in bumps, which is most likely to affect confidence and self-esteem – this can prove devastating to personal and professional relationships, even if the infection is short-lived
Types of Folliculitis
Many cases of scalp folliculitis are innocuous; they won’t last very long, can seem scantly noticeable, and will likely cause very few problems and complications. These are known as superficial scalp folliculitis, which is quite common.
Deep scalp folliculitis – which affects the entire hair follicle ¬– is far more severe, and can cause some dramatic and long-lasting consequences for you and your hair line.
Some superficial types of scalp folliculitis are:
- Bacterial folliculitis; usually caused by the staphylococcus aureus bacteria
- Razor Bumps; characterised by the presence of ingrown hairs, this can affect males who shave too close to the skin
- Pityrosporum; which occurs as a consequence of a yeast infection
Deep types of folliculitis include:
- Sycosis barbae; a deep infection of the facial hair follicles
- Gram-negative folliculitis; can occur during antibiotic treatment for acne
- Boils and carbuncles; a dramatic infection caused by the staphylococcus bacteria
How It Can Be Treated
There are of course, certain risk factors which increase the likelihood of scalp folliculitis. Everyone should avoid re-wearing dirty clothes; not washing their hair properly; as well as showering in water that’s too hot.
Despite taking every precaution, scalp folliculitis is unfortunately common. Almost everyone is likely to have some form or another at some point. What’s important is determining what form you have as soon as possible.
At Advanced Hair Studio, our experts can tell you what your condition is; whether it’s something minor or more serious, we’ll have the right treatment plan for you.
Scalp folliculitis shouldn’t last longer than it has to.
