The Biology of Hair Care

Increased Malassezia and Cutibacterium in the scalp microbiome are linked to higher sebum production and inflammation in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Treatments include ciclopirox shampoo, benzoyl peroxide shampoo, clobetasol propionate, calcipotriol, minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.

OP is considering using a keratin gel to improve hair quality and is concerned about its safety and visual impact on a slightly balding crown. Users discuss shampoo frequency, with some suggesting less frequent use for better hair health, but OP prefers regular shampoo and conditioner for silky hair.

A woman experienced significant hair loss due to medication, hair coloring, and heat damage, leading her to shave her head and feel distressed. She is considering using wigs and possibly oral minoxidil to manage the situation while her hair regrows.

The conversation discusses hair thinning potentially caused by seborrheic dermatitis, with the user considering over-the-counter treatments like Head and Shoulders, Selsun Blue, and Nizoral, while maintaining keratin-treated hair. A suggestion is made to use raw organic honey as a hair mask to treat seborrheic dermatitis without affecting keratin treatments.

A clean diet, including cutting sugar, gluten, and dairy, improved hair health and reduced shedding for a user on oral minoxidil and finasteride, but reverting to an old diet worsened hair condition. While diet impacts hair health, genetic factors and treatments like topical ketoconazole and hydrocortisone are also important for managing hair loss.

Excess sebum rich in cholesterol and triglycerides can lead to hair loss through inflammation, with treatments like Ciclopirox shampoo, Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo, and Clindamycin gel recommended for managing conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and folliculitis. Pioglitazone is suggested for Lichen Planopilaris, while Omega-3s and reducing processed foods may improve sebum quality, though genetic factors play a significant role.