Hair & Scalp Conditions
Hair and scalp concerns can have different causes and patterns. A personalized consultation considers individual symptoms, scalp health, medical history and other relevant health factors.
1. Hair Fall
Hair fall, or hair loss, is a common concern that can affect both men and women at different stages of life. Losing some hair every day is normal, but excessive or noticeable hair shedding may indicate an underlying problem. Hair fall can occur due to hereditary factors, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, prolonged stress, illness, certain medications, scalp conditions, or excessive chemical and heat treatments. In some cases, hair loss may be temporary, while in others it can gradually progress if the underlying cause is not addressed.
Avoid excessive heat styling, frequent chemical treatments and very tight hairstyles that continuously pull on the hair. Maintain a balanced diet containing adequate protein, iron and other essential nutrients, and handle wet hair gently to minimise breakage. Avoid taking hair supplements or medicines without identifying the cause of hair loss, as unnecessary supplementation may not be beneficial. If hair fall is sudden, severe, causing visible thinning or bald patches, or is accompanied by scalp itching, scaling or pain, a dermatologist should evaluate the condition. Early assessment can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment.
2. Dandruff
Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterised by visible flakes and, in some people, itching or scalp irritation. It can occur when the scalp becomes excessively dry or when there is increased activity of a naturally occurring yeast on the scalp, along with changes in oil production and skin-cell turnover. Dandruff is not usually a sign of poor hygiene and is not contagious. Symptoms may become more noticeable during periods of stress, changes in weather or when the scalp becomes particularly oily or irritated.
Regular scalp care can help control dandruff. Wash the scalp regularly according to your hair and scalp type, and avoid excessive use of hair products that may build up on the scalp. Anti-dandruff shampoos containing appropriate active ingredients can be useful when used as directed. Avoid aggressively scratching or picking flakes because this can irritate the scalp and potentially cause skin damage. If dandruff is persistent, severe, associated with redness or thick scales, or does not improve with appropriate over-the-counter care, consultation with a dermatologist is recommended. Similar symptoms can occur in conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or fungal infections, which may require different treatment.
3. Scalp Problems
Scalp problems can present in many different ways, including itching, dryness, excessive oiliness, flaking, redness, scaling, tenderness, pimples, sores or unusual hair loss. These symptoms may result from dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, contact allergies, fungal infections, folliculitis or other skin conditions. Because several scalp disorders can produce similar symptoms, identifying the exact cause is important before starting treatment. Using multiple medicated or cosmetic products without proper guidance may sometimes increase irritation.
Maintain good scalp hygiene and use products appropriate for your scalp type. Avoid sharing combs, brushes, towels or other personal items if an infectious scalp condition is suspected. Try to avoid scratching the scalp, as repeated scratching can damage the skin and worsen inflammation. If symptoms persist, spread to other areas, cause significant hair loss, produce pus or painful lesions, or are accompanied by fever, medical evaluation is advisable. A dermatologist can examine the scalp and hair closely and, when necessary, recommend tests to determine the underlying condition and appropriate treatment.
4. Premature Hair Greying
Premature hair greying refers to hair becoming grey or white earlier than is expected for a person’s age and genetic background. Hair colour depends largely on melanin, the pigment produced by specialised cells in the hair follicle. As these cells produce less pigment, newly growing hair can appear grey or white. Genetics is one of the most important factors influencing when hair starts to grey, but premature greying may sometimes be associated with nutritional deficiencies, certain medical conditions, smoking or other factors.
A balanced diet with adequate protein and essential nutrients is important for overall hair health. Avoid smoking and protect the hair and scalp from unnecessary chemical or heat damage. It is not advisable to take high-dose vitamins or supplements simply because hair is turning grey; supplementation should be based on an identified deficiency or medical recommendation. If greying develops unusually early, progresses rapidly, or occurs along with significant hair loss or other symptoms, a dermatologist can assess whether an underlying nutritional or medical issue may be contributing. Once hair has turned grey, treatment depends on the cause, and cosmetic options such as hair colouring can be considered if desired.