frequently asked questions
Question: Does the condition of my scalp have any bearing on my facial skin?
Answer: Absolutely. "The scalp is a continuation of the skin on the face". The disorders that affect the skin affect the scalp and vice versa. "Several conditions that affect the scalp will appear on the face. So-called promenade acne, in which grease on the scalp drips down on the face, causing blackheads." An infectious condition can also affect the subcutaneous glands in the face. It shows up as dandruff in the eyebrows and eyelashes and on the side of the nose, and can cause discoloration or redness. The sebaceous glands are key to understanding the skin-scalp connection. "The oil glands beneath the skin and scalp are identical. They secrete natural oils and help eliminate toxins from the body. A big fallacy is that African Americans don't produce enough oil. It’s things like blow dryers and relaxers that dry out the scalp. And while we wash toxins from our face daily, most don't wash them from the scalp at the same rate." If you have concerns about your skin, consult a dermatologist.
Question: Braids have caused hair loss around my hairline. Drugstore remedies don't work. What about transplants?
Answer: Before you explore transplant options, consult a Trichologist (a hair and scalp disorder specialist) to determine whether the hair follicles are missing dead or dormant. If a Trichologist determines that your hair loss is permanent, you could be suffering from traction alopecia-- a condition resulting from tight braids and other styles where hair is pulled out at the root.
"Unfortunately, traction alopecia is permanent," The good news? Your hairline can be permanently reestablished with follicle transplants. Advanced procedure called microscopically magnified micro-grafting. "After a strip of hair is removed from the donor site (typically in the back of the head), it is dissected under a microscope to form follicular units called micro grafts." Then each micro grafts, one to four individual hairs, can be densely replanted along the hairline for natural-looking results. The catch? Only a few doctors in the country are trained in this procedure, and it's not cheap, usually requiring two or three visits at $2500 to $10,000 per session.
Hair Care
let your days be ruled by what's inside your head. Make this the year that you stop letting the kind of hair day you're having influence your moods and activities. Honor your hair by learning what's best for its texture and length. Develop a care regimen and style that suit your stress and lifestyle. Experts agree that it all starts with a clean scalp and hair. Regularly washing product buildup and environmental pollutants from your crowning glory will free it to be its best. Toss out the myth that we only need to shampoo once every two weeks. Short naturals should be washed twice weekly, long natural styles, braids and relaxed do's at least once a week. All type and lengths need moisturizing every step of the way with hydrating shampoos and deep penetrating conditioners. Visit Purfurai Shopping Site for Certified Natural Organic Beauty Supply Products.
Look to such products as certified sealed Natural Organic Shampoos and Moisturizer conditioners, Reconstructive Conditioner. For maintenance between shampoos, use light natural organic hair oils. "Massaging a light emollient into the scalp and hair plays a dual role--it stimulates the scalp and nourishes the hair. Routine trims every five to six weeks are also key for manageable, healthy hair. Doing so keeps split ends and frizziest at bay, and keeps you from relying heavily on styling aids, which can be damaging. If your coiffure is relaxed, start with a great cut that keeps its shape, and the rest will be a breeze. Opt for products that are light and nondrying, like styling lotions, spritz-on glosses and holding sprays. A healthy relationship with your hair will help to free you from any mane woe. "Choosing a hairstyle without compromising --that's control," says Trichologist Shanea Matthews New York City. On the threshold of the new century, our experts agree that the following fuss--free styling-the ultimate in control:
- Middlength bob
- Pixie cut with spiked ends
- Two-strand twists, natural or relaxed, that can later be released for added texture
- Braids
- Short natural and
- Finger waves.
Gray Hair
the rate at which your hair grays is genetic; however Momma isn't solely to blame. "You can inherit gray hair from either of your parents," says Shanea Matthews, a New York Trichologist who treats hair and scalp disorders. On the other hand, if you are counting gray hairs at the same rate your parents are, it could be a sign of mineral deficiency. "Most women understand the importance of taking vitamins, but not minerals such as copper," Shanea says. Consult your doctor or nutritionist to determine if you are getting enough. And yes, stress can cause a white-out. So that nasty boss and other stress issues, not mom, could be at the root of your gray hair dilemma.