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Hair health and management of common hair disorders
Author(s) -
Shiel Steve
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal of cosmetic dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.626
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1473-2165
pISSN - 1473-2130
DOI - 10.1111/j.1473-2165.2007.00315.x
Subject(s) - scalp , surprise , medicine , hair care , hair shaft , quality of life (healthcare) , hair loss , hair growth , dermatology , physiology , psychology , hair follicle , chemistry , social psychology , nursing , polymer science
Summary Background In today's image‐conscious society, hair increasingly plays a central role in how we present ourselves to the outside world. It plays a significant role in signaling social and sexual status, with protection or heat conservation now secondary in importance. Therefore, it is no surprise that although hair and scalp disorders are not generally associated with considerable physiologic impairment, the psychologic impact can often be very high and significantly affects the patient's quality of life. Aims The aim of this paper is to review the causes of hair shaft abnormalities and breakage and to describe the role of cosmetic products in treating hair disorders. Conclusion While a number of congenital hair shaft abnormalities and scalp disorders do exist, in the majority of cases the cause of hair fiber damage and premature breakage is self‐inflicted physical or chemical processes, and the subsequent damage to the integrity of the hair fiber itself. In many cases, the correct choice of cosmetic hair products (such as conditioners and styling aids) and techniques can provide an individual with improvements in hair feel, appearance, behavior, and protection against damage. The correct use of products such as shampoos and conditioning treatments cannot only provide immediate benefits, but also afford long‐term protection from further damage. In addition, styling and hair coloring products can provide immediate visual benefits, especially in helping to increase the apparent bulk volume of the hair. Together, these changes can significantly improve the patient's self‐esteem and overall quality of life.