An abundance or lack of hair on the body creates many psychological standards in our society. For instance, it is widely acceptable for women to be clean-shaven in some areas, while men are considered to be more youthful with a full head of hair. Problems can arise, however, when certain hair conditions obstruct our normal perceptions of beauty, which can create concerns for the men and women who experience the symptoms of a hair disorder. When unwanted hair or an absence of hair are causing psychological or emotional issues, then it’s time to seek treatment at Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery. Our physicians provide treatment for hair disorders that will help you look and feel your absolute best.
What is a Hair Condition?
Hair disorders include a broad range of conditions, all of which affect the growth of hair on the body or the skin surrounding the hair follicles. Generally a hair disorder will include any circumstance where hair grows in unusual places or is unable to grow in expected areas. Hair disorders do not, however, include unwanted hair in areas where hair growth is typical, such as the legs or underarms.
Types of Hair Conditions
At Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery, we treat some of the more common hair disorders that affect both men and women, and we’re able to diagnose each condition based on a skin and hair evaluation that determines severity as well as the most effective treatment option.
Dandruff
Dandruff is a condition of the scalp that is characterized by white flakes that appear in the hair. The white flakes are the result of dead skin cells that are shedding at a more frequent rate than normal. Dandruff occurs in both men and women equally, and the causes for the condition range from dry skin to infrequent shampooing. Oftentimes dandruff will cause psychological concerns as it can be associated with poor hygiene. To treat dandruff, our physicians may recommend specific dandruff shampoos or creams.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles become inflamed, which can occur due to bacteria getting into the follicle as well as shaving or the use of oils that keep the hair follicle from growing properly. The condition will appear as pimples that may have pus in them, which tend to itch depending on where they are located on the body. Treatment for folliculitis often has to do with avoiding materials, substances or actions that irritate the follicle, including certain cosmetic products, tight clothing or shaving. Other treatment options include creams and lotions, medicated ointments or laser hair removal if the condition persists.
Alopecia
Alopecia areata is characterized by a loss of hair on the scalp and other parts of the body. The condition is known to be an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles and prevents hair from growing. Usually hair will begin to fall out in clumps, leaving smooth bald spots on the head. The hair may grow back, but will fall out again over time. Depending on the amount of hair missing, several treatment options may be recommended. The physicians at Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery will examine the condition and come up with the most effective treatment option.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism occurs in women who experience hair growth that is typically associated with men, which may include hair on the chin, chest, stomach, back or upper lip. Hirsutism is a result of an abundance of androgens or male hormones, and although all women have androgens in their bodies, those with hirsutism have them in excess. The condition may also be a result of medications that change hormone levels in the body. To treat hirsutism, laser hair removal is often recommend as it is one of the most effective and permanent solutions to eliminating unwanted hair.
Madarosis
Madarosis is a condition that results in the loss of eyelashes or eyebrows. Although they may seem insignificant, the eyebrows and lashes are essential to keeping bacteria out of our eyes and causing infection. Madarosis may also cause cosmetic concerns that lead those experiencing the condition to feel self-conscious about the way they look. The condition has many causes including dry skin, infection, malnutrition, certain medications and genetics and to treat it, solutions like Lastisse® may be recommended to help regrow eyelashes and eyebrows.
Experiencing one of these hair conditions can cause many cosmetic concerns, and the physicians at Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery only want you to feel confident about the way that you look. If you are seeking treatment for a hair condition, please contact our office at 631-979-0909 and schedule a consultation for a skin and hair evaluation.