Some Thoughts: Scattered Hair and There!

Dr. Shyam B Verma, in his commentary, reflects on the cultural and aesthetic significance of hair in India and expresses optimism for the newly established scientific journal dedicated to hair research. He notes that despite India's rich history with hair, it has not made a significant international impact in scientific literature due to various reasons including lack of infrastructure and basic research. Verma highlights common issues such as the association between low serum ferritin and diffuse hair loss in women, and serum vitamin B12 with premature canities (graying of hair), suggesting that more documentation and research are needed. He also discusses cultural practices like vigorous combing and oil massaging, which are deeply rooted but lack scientific scrutiny, and calls for studies to understand their effects on hair. Additionally, he criticizes the marketing of unscientific hair care products and treatments, urging the journal to address these issues scientifically. Verma emphasizes the need for training dermatologists in hair disorders, expressing concern that interest in this field should be driven by genuine scientific inquiry rather than commercial interests. He concludes by encouraging the younger generation to engage in research on hair disorders and looks forward to contributing to the field through his association with the journal and the Hair Research Society of India.