Hyperkeratosis of the scalp is an extremely unpleasant phenomenon. Moreover, it is rarely an independent disease and most often indicates the presence of certain disorders in the body. So what are the causes of hyperkeratosis? Which specialist should I contact for help? What treatment does modern medicine offer?
What is hyperkeratosis?
It's no secret that the structure of human skin is quite complex. The epidermal cells on the surface of the skin are constantly dividing - the old ones die and exfoliate, and new ones appear in their place.
But in some cases, for one reason or another, the metabolism changes - in people there is an increase in the synthesis of keratin protein, which accumulates in the upper, horny layer of the skin. Protein substance “sticks together” skin flakes, interfering with their normal separation. This is how hyperkeratosis of the scalp develops.
As the disease develops, the thickness of the upper layers of the skin in the affected area increases, roughness and tuberosity appear on it. Naturally, hyperkeratosis is not only an aesthetic problem. Indeed, due to the accumulation of dead tissue, the basic functions of the skin are violated, in particular sweating, getting rid of sebum, gas exchange, etc. As a result of such changes, atrophy of the epidermis occurs , which is already much more dangerous.
Internal causes of hyperkeratosis
In fact, hyperkeratosis of the scalp rarely occurs on its own. In most cases, such changes indicate violations in the functioning of the whole organism. There are many causes of hyperkeratosis.
In some patients, some genetic diseases associated with keratin synthesis are detected during the diagnosis process. Often, hyperkeratosis occurs against a background of skin diseases: erythroderma, various types of lichen, as well as psoriasis. Sometimes a metabolic disorder in the skin layers is associated with diseases of the liver or gall bladder. Risk factors also include diabetes mellitus, Cesari syndrome, as well as congenital pathologies that are accompanied by ichthyosis.
In addition, dry scalp and thickening of the stratum corneum can be observed against a background of a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, in particular folic acid, tocopherol, retinol, zinc, etc.
Are there external risk factors?
Of course, internal disorders can cause hyperkeratosis of the scalp. The reasons, however, are external. In particular, a thickening of the stratum corneum is observed if a person ignores the rules of personal hygiene and does not provide adequate care to the scalp.
In addition, experts refer to risk factors and improper selection of cosmetics. Some shampoos, masks and hair balms cause increased dry skin or an allergic reaction. In some patients, hyperkeratosis develops as a result of strong squeezing of the scalp for a long time - this is observed with constant wearing of rims, hairpins, hairpins and even too tight headgear.
Determining the cause of the development of such a pathology alone is almost impossible. That is why, at the slightest suspicion of having hyperkeratosis, you should seek the help of a specialist.
Hyperkeratosis of the scalp: photo and description of the main symptoms
It is worth noting that at the initial stages the signs of hyperkeratosis are not too obvious - many people confuse the disease with ordinary seborrhea. First, the scalp becomes excessively dry. Accordingly, patients complain of dandruff. Violation of the basic functions of tissues affects the condition of the hair. In particular, they become thin, dull, brittle, split ends can be noticed.
As the disease develops, the epidermal layers become denser and begin to peel off intensely. The skin becomes rough and rough to the touch. Patients report the appearance of solid crimson pimples.
Hyperkeratosis of the scalp leads to intense hair loss - alopecia in this case can be either partial or complete. In most cases, the disease affects other parts of the body. For example, often in patients keratosis of the skin of the palms, elbows, feet or knees is also noted. In the absence of treatment, or at the beginning of therapy at the last stages of the disease, it is not possible to restore the lost hair - baldness in this case is irreversible.
Who to contact with a similar problem?
Scalp disease (hyperkeratosis) can lead to extremely unpleasant consequences. That is why when the first signs appear, you should seek help from a specialist. First of all, you need to visit the dermatologist's office, which will conduct an initial examination, prescribe the necessary studies and, possibly, recommend other specialists to you.
Diagnosis in this case consists not only in confirming the fact of the presence of hyperkeratosis, but in finding the cause of the occurrence of such a condition. Therefore, you most likely will need to have blood tests and tissue samples from the affected areas of the skin, undergo an ultrasound examination, etc. If you find any problems, you will need to undergo an additional examination by a trichologist, immunologist, hematologist or neurologist.
Treatment of hyperkeratosis with drugs
Only a doctor knows which treatment requires keratosis of the scalp. Treatment in this case depends both on the causes of the development of the syndrome and on its stage. For example, in the initial stages, general body strengthening and proper care of the scalp will suffice. In particular, patients are prescribed fish oil preparations - this drug is taken orally, and they also treat affected areas of the skin. The use of multivitamin complexes and probiotics, which help restore the immune system, will have a positive effect on the skin condition.
Naturally, it is extremely important to eliminate the root cause of the ailment. Therapy looks a little different if the patient is diagnosed with advanced hyperkeratosis of the scalp. Treatment includes the use of special hormonal ointments that eliminate inflammation, dryness and irritation of the skin, reduce the degree of compaction of the stratum corneum. In particular, such drugs as Celestoderm, Lokoid, Sinalar, prednisolone ointment are considered quite effective.
Hardware treatments
Of course, some means of cosmetology and aesthetic medicine will also help to cope with such an unpleasant disease as hyperkeratosis of the scalp. How to treat this condition? First of all, patients are recommended various procedures for cleansing the scalp. For example, soft peels using salicylic, malic, citric acids will help cleanse the skin of “glued” horny scales, improve blood circulation and tissue nutrition, and speed up the regeneration process.
The methods of laser therapy are considered quite effective. Unfortunately, such remedies are not so cheap, therefore, not all patients are suitable.
Hyperkeratosis of the scalp: treatment at home
As already mentioned, such a violation is most often associated with certain changes in the functioning of the body itself. Therefore, following simple rules and following the doctor’s recommendations, you can quickly get rid of such an ailment as hyperkeratosis of the scalp.
Home treatment primarily includes proper scalp care. In this case, it is extremely important to choose high-quality shampoos and other care products - you should talk about this with your doctor. Massage will also have a positive effect on the skin condition.
In addition, patients with a similar diagnosis are recommended to follow the basic rules of a healthy lifestyle - eat well, avoid physical activity, more often visit the fresh air, strengthen immunity, and abandon bad habits. It is also important to establish the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
Traditional medicine
Now you know what constitutes hyperkeratosis of the scalp. Treatment, photos, causes and symptoms of the disease are in this article. But is it possible to get rid of it with the help of traditional medicine? To date, there are many recipes that help to cope with the disease.
For example, to combat hyperkeratosis, ordinary potatoes are suitable. Peel it and grind it. Put the resulting slurry on a gauze bandage and attach to the lesion for about an hour. The procedure must be repeated at least three times a day until visible improvements appear.
Aloe juice is considered a very effective remedy. First cut the young leaves and leave them in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. After this time, the plant will be ready for use. Cut the leaves along and attach them with the pulp to the affected area of the skin, securing it with a gauze bandage on top. It is best to cover the head with cling film from above and wrap with a towel - so the effect of the plant will be maximum. The procedure should be performed before bedtime, since aloe should remain on the skin for at least 8-10 hours. And wipe the sutra with salicylic alcohol.
But do not forget that such improvised tools only help speed up the healing process. In no case should you give up conservative treatment. Moreover, before using any traditional medicine, it is better to consult a doctor.