Hair and scalp problems occur commonly. The hair may be thinning or falling out, breaking off, or growing slowly. It can be uncomfortable to have an itchy or peeling scalp or dandruff.
Board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness and Jackie McGinness, FNP (Nurse Practitioner) provide safe, proven and effective skin care procedures to patients in Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and surrounding locations.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia means hair loss. An individual who has the medical condition known as alopecia areata experiences the falling out of hair in round patches. The hair can fall out on the scalp and other areas of the body.
This condition can lead to different types of hair loss, and each of these types has a different name:
- Alopecia totalis (loss of all hair on the scalp).
- Alopecia areata (hair loss in patches).
- Alopecia universalis (loss of all hair on the body).
This condition usually develops in people who are otherwise healthy.
Dandruff
Dandruff refers to a common condition of the scalp which causes small fragments of dry skin to flake off the scalp. People wearing dark colors or those with dark hair may notice the flakes in the hair or on the shoulders. This condition can also cause the scalp to itch.
Many individuals think that dandruff occurs due to poor hygiene. However, this is not true. While dandruff can become more apparent with infrequent shampooing, researchers are still studying the reasons, which seem to be complex.
The most effective method to treat and manage dandruff is to use dandruff shampoo and scalp treatments. At times, the itching and flaking that looks like dandruff is actually a medical condition, such as psoriasis, fungal infections of the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis, or eczema.
In case the symptoms continue despite using a dandruff shampoo, the individual should see a board certified dermatologist.
Hair Loss
In case a person experiences bald patches or significant hair thinning, they may be experiencing hair loss.
Hair loss occurs due to various reasons. Women may experience hair loss after childbirth. Individuals who are under a lot of stress may also suffer from hair loss. Certain conditions and medical treatments can lead to hair loss, as well.
The most common reason for hair loss is a medical condition known as hereditary hair loss. Around 80 million women and men in the US experience this form of hair loss.
Fortunately, a majority of the reasons for hair loss can be stopped or treated. Anyone who experiences hair loss should consult a dermatologist. These doctors are experts in the treatment of skin, hair, and nails.
Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the skin. It is known as scalp psoriasis when it develops on the scalp.
Scalp psoriasis can extend to other areas beyond the scalp. It can develop on the forehead. At times, it may extend to the back of the neck or occur behind the ears.
Psoriasis on the scalp may require different treatment. The scalp skin is thicker, and hair may be an impediment. Scalp psoriasis can be a stubborn condition. Many individuals consult a dermatologist for treatment.
The below mentioned types of treatment can help scalp psoriasis:
- Medication applied to the scalp
- Medicated shampoos
- Scale softeners
- Injections
- Light treatments
- Biologics and other drugs that work throughout the body
Board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness and Jackie McGinness, FNP (Nurse Practitioner) receive patients from Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and nearby areas for advanced and innovative skin care treatments.
If you would like to learn more about procedures and treatments at Metro East Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jamie L. McGinness please contact us here or call (618) 622-SKIN (7546)
Taking new patients in and around the greater St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois area: East St. Louis Missouri, Shiloh Illinois, Belleville, Millstadt, Saint Clair County, Madison County and more.