Scalp disorders
The type of hair and scalp problems trichologists see do not change much over time. However, some problems are increasing, particularly alopecia areata, the scaly problem psoriasis, some scarring alopecias, and the genetic type of hair thinning experienced by a small percentage of females, known as androgentic alopecia.
Common problems
- Alopecia areata
- Psoriasis
- Androgenetic alopecia
- Diffuse hair loss
Hair shaft disorders
Most of the hair is protein. It is a high sulphur protein termed keratin and much of its strength is due to strong chemical bonds between sulphur atoms, called disulphide bonds. The main amino acid in hair is cystine.
The bulk of the hair, know as the cortex, is fibrous, whereas the outer protective covering of the hair, the cuticle, is a stronger keratin, termed matrix protein.
Common problems
- Cuticle damage
- Split ends
- Fungal infection around hair shaft
- Trichorrhexis nodosa
- Monilethrix
- Pili annualati
- Pili torti
