e-Clinic

What is Alopecia? Alopecia is the general medical term for hair loss. While most commonly associated with the scalp, it can affect your entire body, including eyebrows and eyelashes. Normal vs. Excessive: It is biologically normal to shed 50 to 100 hairs every day as part of the natural growth cycle. However, if you notice distinct bald patches, a receding hairline, or large clumps of hair falling out in the shower, that is classified as excessive loss. Common Types & Symptoms Hair loss isn't "one size fits all." Identifying the specific pattern of loss is the first step in determining the underlying cause. [Image of the human hair growth cycle: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen phases] 1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness) This is the most common hereditary type of hair loss, affecting millions worldwide. In Men: Usually begins with a receding hairline that forms an "M" sha...

What is Dandruff? Dandruff is a highly common, chronic scalp condition marked by the rapid flaking of dead skin cells. It is not contagious and is rarely a serious medical issue, though it can be intensely frustrating and embarrassing. While it is often mistakenly blamed entirely on "dry skin," dandruff is actually most frequently caused by excess oil production or an inflammatory reaction to a naturally occurring scalp fungus called Malassezia . Symptoms Symptoms are often noticeably worse during the dry, cold winter months (due to indoor heating) and tend to improve during the humid summer. Signs include: White, sometimes oily-looking flakes resting on the hair, eyebrows, and shoulders. An intensely itchy, scaly scalp. Mild redness or inflammation on the scalp. In Babies: Cradle Cap In newborns and infants, this same condition is called Cradle Cap (infantile seborrheic dermatitis). I...