Follicles, Fungi, And Scalp Conditions

September 2011 in “ British Journal of Dermatology ”

Andrew G. Messenger

seborrhoeic dermatitis dandruff Malassezia azole antifungal treatments hair follicle infundibulum zinc pyrithione SD antifungal treatments

TLDR Malassezia yeast plays a key role in dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Towards the end of the 19th century, seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff (SD/D) were attributed to a small micro-organism, likely a lipophilic yeast of the genus Malassezia. This idea was later replaced by the concept of SD/D as a hyperproliferative disorder with secondary microbial colonization. However, the effectiveness of azole antifungal treatments in the late 1970s and early 1980s revived interest in Malassezia's role in SD/D. Despite its commensal status, evidence strongly supported Malassezia's key role in SD/D pathogenesis. Advances in Malassezia biology, including subspecies identification and genome sequencing, have enhanced understanding of SD/D pathogenesis and treatment. Recent studies highlighted the hair follicle infundibulum's role in SD/D and as a drug delivery target, along with new insights into zinc pyrithione's mechanism and delivery.

View this study on academic.oup.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 221 results

community Diffuse hair loss and scalp biopsies

in Research 692 upvotes 3 months ago

Scalp biopsies are crucial for diagnosing hair loss conditions like Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia (DUPA) and retrograde hair loss, as treatments like finasteride and dutasteride may not be effective if other conditions are present. Combining PPAR-GAMMA agonists with retinoids could improve treatments for conditions like Lichen Planopilaris.

community Why is no one pointing out dandruff as the number 1 evidence/symptom of MPB?

in Chat 55 upvotes 1 year ago

The post discusses the theory that persistent dandruff in areas prone to hair loss could be a sign of hair follicles dying due to DHT, indicating balding. The responses vary, with some users noting improvements in dandruff and hair loss with treatments like Dutasteride, while others experienced hair loss without dandruff.

community Ru58841 completely got rid of my seb derm

in Chat 6 upvotes 1 year ago

RU58841 cured seborrheic dermatitis, oily scalp, dandruff, and scalp pain, improving hair health when combined with Minoxidil. Another user noted diet impacts their seborrheic dermatitis and that finasteride hasn't changed their condition.

community Boys I am just a gonner. What on earth is my scalp even going through. Looks like world war 3. Pyril 3 months. Topical melitonin/progesterone/fin, dut, fin, oral min, laser trash, anus stimulation. Nothing. Donor area is decimated 😂.

in Progress Pictures 83 upvotes 2 years ago

Treating Seborrheic Dermatitis, a fungal scalp condition which can cause hair loss. Treatments discussed include antifungal shampoos, cold showers, exfoliating the scalp, taking Vitamin D, and stimulating the prostate through the anus.

community A hill on which I will die: The DHT itch absolutely exists

in Research/Science 209 upvotes 6 months ago

The DHT itch is linked to hair loss and persists despite finasteride use; switching to dutasteride helped alleviate the itch and promoted regrowth. Some users suggest seborrheic dermatitis as a cause and recommend treatments like medicated shampoos, vitamin D, and minoxidil.

community Fats on your Head to Stop Hair Loss?

in Research/Science 138 upvotes 9 months ago

The conversation discusses the potential of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids, like oleic and linoleic acid, as an additional treatment for hair loss, which may inhibit the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT and promote hair growth. Users humorously suggest using oils topically and discuss other hair loss treatments, but the main focus is on the science behind fatty acids and their role in hair health.

Similar Research

5 / 1000+ results

research Topical Ketoconazole: A Systematic Review of Current Dermatological Applications and Future Developments

39 citations, January 2019 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment”

Ketoconazole cream is effective for skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and may help with hair loss and other skin issues, with generally mild side effects.

research Revisiting Dandruff: Role of Malassezia Yeasts and Treatment Implications

78 citations, September 2006 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science”

Dandruff is mainly caused by a scalp reaction to yeast, can worsen hair loss, and antifungal treatments may help.

research Atlas of Geriatric Dermatology

2 citations, January 2014 in “Springer eBooks”

The book details skin conditions in older adults, their link to mental health, cancer treatment importance, hair loss remedies, and managing autoimmune and itchy skin.

research Seborrheic Dermatitis and Pityriasis Sicca: A Review

May 2022 in “Cosmoderma”

Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff are often treated with antifungal and anti-inflammatory medications, which can reduce symptoms and yeast growth on the scalp.

research The Itchy Scalp: An Overview of Scalp Pruritus and Its Management

July 2018 in “Elsevier eBooks”

Up to half of people experience itchy scalp, often due to skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, and treatments vary based on the specific cause.