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 Some
individuals are born with congenital hair shaft abnormalities
that result in brittle and broken hairs; but most people develop
brittle, damaged, or broken hair as a result of mistreating
their hair.If
a hair loss is to be diagnosed, it’s essential that the
physician not confuse hair fall and hair breakage. Usually,
a careful microscopic examination of representative hair shafts
will give the answer. Causes
of hair damage include: chemical straightening and/or permanent
waves, hair dyes and bleaches, overzealous drying with a blower,
rollers, tight braiding, and improper hair care.Hair
breakage in isolated distinct areas of the scalp may result
from infection with bacteria or fungus, and cultures are essential.
In a
condition called “trichotillomania” patients have
an irresistible urge to pluck out their own hairs, many of
which break in the process. Patients
who pull at their hair will have a spotty configuration of
loss. In trichotillomania, the spots are charecterized by
broken hairs, hairs of varying length, and incomplete loss
of hair in the affected area.
With HairCheck technology, patients with damaged hair can be evaluated to determine the percent breakage that is present. Recommendations will then be made regarding changes in hair care habits and use of conditioners. The breakage can be re-measured at a later date to determine if it is better, worse, or unchanged. No hair needs to be cut for the breakage measurement.
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