Itchy scalp? Flakes? We can help. Aglow Dermatology is a popular choice for people looking for a scalp doctor near me in the New York City metro area.
Understanding Scalp Disorders
The scalp is a unique area of skin that requires specialized care due to its distinct characteristics and the presence of hair follicles. Unlike other parts of the body, the scalp has a high density of sebaceous glands and hair follicles, making it susceptible to a range of specific skin conditions.
Scalp disorders can cause significant discomfort, embarassment, and are often linked to hair loss, affecting both the health of the scalp and the appearance of the hair. Conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, and infections can disrupt the normal function of the scalp, necessitating targeted treatments to restore and maintain its health. An itchy scalp can result from various conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and allergic reactions.
Understanding Scalp vs Hair Disorders
When it comes to scalp and hair health, it’s essential to distinguish between scalp disorders and hair disorders–although there is overlap. Scalp disorders affect the skin on your head, leading to various symptoms like itching, flaking, and redness.
On the other hand, hair disorders primarily impact the hair shaft, causing issues like hair loss or changes in texture. Scarring alopecias, such as central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), lichen planopilaris, discoid lupus, and others, however, usually start as inflammation in the scalp skin which destroys the hair follicle leading to hair loss. Hair loss dermatologists like Dr. Strachan of Aglow Dermatology, also have expertise in diseases of the scalp that cause hair loss.
Scalp disorders
Below are some of the common scalp disorders we treat in our dermatology office:
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff
Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff are common scalp disorders that affect about half the U.S. population at sometime in their lives. These conditions usually start after around puberty and tends to flare with season changes
. People with seborrheic dermatitis sometimes describe themselves as have a dry scalp or dry facial skin that doesn’t respond to lotion. The condition is caused by excess oil and yeast on the skin causing inflammation.
Symptoms and signs of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff include the following:
- itching
- redness
- flaky skin
Dandruff is usually less severe and characterized by white flakes of dead skin. Seborrheic dermatitis, however, is a more intense inflammatory condition. Seborrheic dermatitis also affect areas off the scalp such as the ears, face, chest, upper back, and sometimes the armpits and genitals. People with heavy facial hair can also suffer with beard dandruff.
Scalp treatment for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff usually involve a combination of medicated shampoos, topical medications, and sometimes changes to one’s diet.
Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a systemic, autoimmune disease that affects the skin and has effect on other parts of the body. Psoriasis can also affect the scalp. It can be itchy and sometimes painful. A dermatologist for scalp problems can offer various treatments, including topical medications and phototherapy, to alleviate symptoms and improve scalp health. People with scalp psoriasis, and psoriasis in the buttocks folds, have a higher risk of developing complications such as arthritis, so it is important to treat and monitor your psoriasis with the dermatologist if your scalp is involved.
Ringworm (Tinea Capitis)
Ringworm, or tinea capitis, is a fungal infection that affects the scalp, causing itch, round, scaly patches and sometimes hair loss. This contagious condition requires prompt treatment from a scalp doctor to prevent spread, permanent hair loss and to promote healing. The dermatologist will send a swab from the affected area of the scalp for fungal culture. Treatment for tinea capitis usually involves an oral antifungal medication.
Folliculitis Decalvans
Folliculitis decalvans is a rare inflammatory condition leading to permanent hair loss and scarring on the scalp. It manifests as painful, pus bumps on the scalp that can cause significant discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment by a dermatologist for scalp disorders are crucial to manage this condition and to prevent hair loss.
Dissecting cellulitis
Follicular inclusion syndrome, also known as follicular inclusion syndrome, causes painful nodules and abscesses on the scalp, leading to scarring and hair loss. The cause is inflammation and blockaged in the hair follicles. The condition can affect anyone but is more common in African American men. Treatment for this condition may require systemic medication such as antiobiotics, isotretinoin (Accutane), biologics or even hair removal.
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Acne keloidalis nuchae affects the back of the neck and scalp, causing itchy papules, raised scars and hair loss. This condition is more common in individuals with curly hair, such as Black men, especially if they shave the affected area. If untreated acne keloidalis nuchae, or AKN, can cause severe scarring and keloids, which require surgical excision.
Pilar Cysts
Pilar cysts are benign, slow-growing lumps that form under the scalp’s skin. These cysts are caused by clogged pore allowing dead skin cells and oil to accumulate. They are generally painless but can become bothersome if they rupture and became inflamed. Pilar cysts can also become uncomfortable with hair grooming or unsightly if they grow large. A dermatologist for scalp conditions can remove these cysts surgically, ensuring minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
Scalp Lipomas
Scalp lipomas are non-cancerous growths of fat cells that can appear as soft lumps under the skin. While typically harmless, they can be surgically removed if they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Lipomas may be difficult to distinguish from scalp cysts.
Skin Cancer on the Scalp
People with fine or thinning hair are more prone to develop skin cancer on the scalp. Skin cancer on the scalp, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, requires immediate attention. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist for scalp problems can help detect skin cancer early, improving treatment outcomes significantly.
Conclusion | Scalp doctor near me
If you’re experiencing any of these scalp conditions, finding a scalp doctor near me is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Whether it’s reviewing your scalp care routine, managing dandruff, addressing scalp psoriasis, discoid lupus, or treating more severe conditions like folliculitis decalvans, a dermatologist for scalp disorders can offer the expertise and care you need. Don’t let scalp problems affect your quality of life—reach out to a our scalp specialist today for comprehensive scalp diagnosis and treatment.