Non-Hereditary Hair Loss and Acne Scars: Seeking Solutions

Non-genetic hair loss & extensive acne scars on the chest, back, and neck?

Hello Doctor, I have two questions, and I appreciate your help.

1.
My family does not have a history of baldness.
In the past, I had a lot of hair, but a few years ago, I developed a habit of scratching my head while thinking, and sometimes I have acne on my scalp.
I often scratch, which has led to white particles appearing.
Even when I’m just watching TV, I find myself scratching the right side of my temple and forehead, as my right hand is usually busy writing or using the mouse.
Last year, I noticed that the hair in that area has become extremely sparse, and the density is very low, making the scalp clearly visible.
Other areas still look normal, but compared to the past, they have also weakened significantly.
Following a friend's advice, I switched from Helen to Lojian, but my scalp acne worsened, and it has been itchy.
To this day, that area remains very sparse.
Doctor, could it be that I have damaged all my hair follicles? Hair growth products are quite expensive, and I would like to know how long it might take for this condition to recover.
Do I need to use hair growth products? What should I do?
2.
I have a few pimples on my back, chest, collarbone, shoulders, and neck that seem to be persistent.
There are also blackheads and some with pus.
I sometimes scratch the acne on my back, which has left scars over the past nine years.
When the light hits just right, there are large patches of red and white spots, while my face does not have acne at all; it looks clear but is problematic underneath.
Previously, I received treatment with oral and topical medications, which provided some relief for a while, but the acne reappeared shortly after.
What methods can improve this condition? Additionally, how should I deal with the widespread acne scars on my body? Thank you.

Dou bu zhang lian zhang man shen., 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/03/15

Dr. Du Zhiqiang reply Dermatology

Hello, for a 24-year-old individual who is energetic and physically active, if there is a significant presence of acne, it is important to consider whether this is a recent development, whether there is a tendency for oily skin, whether there has been prolonged pressure on the skin, or inappropriate use of medications.
A professional dermatological evaluation is necessary for appropriate treatment.
Frequent hair pulling can lead to hair loss, which is indeed a physical factor; however, if the individual corrects these bad habits, a 24-year-old will likely regrow their hair and return to normal.
If there is excessive oil production, treatment for seborrheic dermatitis may be required, and hair loss can certainly be restored to normal.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Du Zhi-Liang, Head of Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2010/03/15

More Info

When it comes to non-hereditary hair loss, particularly in the context of habits like hair pulling (trichotillomania) and skin issues such as acne, it's important to approach the situation holistically. Your concerns about thinning hair in specific areas, particularly after engaging in habits that involve pulling or scratching, are valid and require careful consideration.

Understanding Hair Loss and Its Causes
From your description, it seems that your hair loss may be linked to both physical trauma from pulling and possibly underlying skin conditions, such as acne. Trichotillomania is a psychological condition where individuals feel compelled to pull out their hair, which can lead to noticeable thinning or bald patches. This condition is often associated with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges. The good news is that if you can reduce or eliminate the pulling behavior, there is a good chance that your hair can regrow over time, as long as the hair follicles are still healthy and intact.

The Role of Hair Products
Regarding the use of hair growth products, while they can be beneficial for some types of hair loss, their effectiveness can vary based on the underlying cause. For instance, products containing minoxidil (like Rogaine) can help stimulate hair growth in cases of androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) but may not be as effective for hair loss due to pulling or trauma. If you decide to use such products, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and be patient, as results can take several months to become noticeable.

Recovery Timeline
The timeline for hair regrowth can vary significantly from person to person. If the hair follicles are still viable and you stop the pulling behavior, you might start to see some regrowth within a few months. However, complete recovery can take longer, sometimes up to a year or more, depending on the extent of the damage and individual healing processes.

Seeking Professional Help
Given the complexity of your situation, it would be wise to consult with a dermatologist or a trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp health). They can assess your scalp condition, evaluate the health of your hair follicles, and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs. They may also provide guidance on managing any acne issues that could be contributing to your hair loss.

Addressing Acne Scars
For the acne scars and skin issues you mentioned, there are several treatment options available. These can include:
1. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products containing ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids can help manage acne and improve skin texture.

2. Chemical Peels: These can help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of scars.

3. Laser Therapy: Various laser treatments can target acne scars and promote skin regeneration.

4. Microneedling: This procedure involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of scars.

5. Prescription Medications: If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger topical or oral medications to manage acne and its scars.

Conclusion
In summary, addressing your hair loss and acne scars requires a multifaceted approach. Focus on reducing the pulling behavior, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, and consider appropriate treatments for both hair regrowth and skin improvement. Remember, patience is key, as healing and regrowth take time.

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