Common Scalp Conditions

Psoriasis

Characterised by red, inflamed patches with silvery scales, scalp psoriasis can cause significant discomfort and affect hair growth. This autoimmune condition accelerates skin cell growth, leading to buildup that can damage hair follicles when left untreated.

Chronic Dandruff

More than just occasional flaking, chronic dandruff (seborrhoeic dermatitis) involves persistent inflammation, itching, and visible flaking. This condition can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to increased hair shedding when not properly managed.

Scalp Sensitivity and Soreness

Inflammation, infection, or allergic reactions can cause painful, tender areas on the scalp. These conditions often create an inhospitable environment for healthy hair growth and can trigger hair thinning or loss.



Hair Loss (Alopecia)

While often visible as a hair concern, many types of hair loss originate with scalp issues. Follicle inflammation, poor circulation, or hormonal imbalances affecting the scalp can all contribute to progressive hair thinning or patchy hair loss.

Chemical Scalp Damage

Over-processing your hair with chemicals such as bleach, hair dyes and relaxers causes a number of scalp problems, including inflammation, scalp burns and primary irritant dermatitis.

Reducing the use of harsh chemicals goes a long way to making your scalp healthy.

Understanding what disrupts scalp health is the first step toward effective treatment. Here's a simplified explanation of the common causes:

Microbiome Imbalance

Your scalp hosts a delicate balance of microorganisms that protect against harmful bacteria and fungi. When this balance is disrupted by harsh products, applying oils to the scalp (for a prolonged time) hormonal changes, or stress- problems begin. Malassezia, a naturally occurring yeast, can overgrow and trigger dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis when your scalp's ecosystem is compromised.

Oil Production Issues

Your scalp's sebaceous glands produce natural oils (sebum) that moisturise and protect both scalp and hair. Two common problems occur:

• Overproduction: Excess oil can trap dead skin cells and create a breeding ground for microorganisms, leading to dandruff, oily flakes, and clogged follicles
• Underproduction: Too little oil leaves your scalp dry, itchy, and flaky, with visible dry dandruff and a compromised skin barrier

Inflammatory Responses

Your scalp may develop inflammation due to:

• Allergic reactions: Hair products with fragrances, preservatives, or harsh chemicals can trigger contact dermatitis
• Autoimmune responses: In conditions like psoriasis, your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, accelerating cell turnover and creating scaly patches
• Environmental irritants: Pollution, extreme weather, and UV radiation can damage scalp tissue and trigger inflammatory responses

Circulatory Problems

Poor blood flow to your scalp means hair follicles receive fewer nutrients and less oxygen, leading to:

• Weaker, thinner hair growth
• Slower recovery from damage
• Premature follicle aging

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormones significantly impact scalp health by:

• Regulating oil production
• Influencing hair growth cycles
• Affecting scalp sensitivity
• Conditions like pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, and stress can trigger hormonal changes that manifest as scalp problems.

External Factors

• Product buildup: Styling products, dry shampoo, and even some conditioners can accumulate on the scalp, suffocating follicles and creating an unhealthy environment

• Heat damage: Frequent use of high-heat styling tools without using heat protective serum can dry out the scalp and damage its protective barrier

• Mechanical stress: Tight hairstyles, excessive brushing, or rough treatment can physically irritate the scalp and damage follicles

• Diet and hydration: Nutritional deficiencies and dehydration directly impact your scalp's ability to maintain healthy tissue and produce strong hair

At TrichoSynergy, we take a comprehensive approach to scalp health, beginning with a thorough analysis of your unique scalp condition. Our specialist uses advanced diagnostic tools to examine your scalp's follicle health.

Based on the findings, we develop personalised treatment plans that may include:

• Medical-grade scalp treatments
• Customised home care routines
• Nutritional guidance for hair and scalp health
• Advanced therapies for severe conditions

Addressing scalp concerns early can prevent more serious hair issues down the road. If you're experiencing scalp discomfort, visible flaking, or hair thinning, contact TrichoSynergy for a comprehensive scalp assessment.

Don't let scalp conditions compromise your hair health and confidence.  Make your consultation appointment with our Scalp Expert, Victoria Elliott - Consultant Trichologist today.