We all know – some of us more than others – how advanced age leads to thinning hair and male (or female) pattern baldness. Some of us may be lucky enough to make it into middle age without suffering from too many changes to our hair. While some, unfortunately, feel the effects before even graduating high school. However, our hairlines can be impacted by more than just age.
Certain illnesses and diseases have been linked to hair loss – including a number of autoimmune diseases. While autoimmune diseases are not contagious, some infections that can harm our hair are… including fungal infections. So, what does hair loss caused by a fungal infection look like?
What Does Fungal Hair Loss Look Like?
Unlike male or female pattern baldness (which does follow a similar pattern and can be somewhat predictable), fungal infections follow a different pattern. One of the most well-known fungal infections that affect the scalp is called tinea capitis – commonly referred to as ringworm.
This kind of fungal infection results in the development of scaly patches of skin. The scaly skin causes damage beneath the surface, harming your hair follicles and creating bald spots where the infection is present.
Does Hair Loss From Fungus Grow Back?
Thankfully, it is possible for your hair to grow back after a fungal infection such as ringworm. The important thing is to treat ringworm right away and to treat it thoroughly.
Ringworm can often come back again in children more so than adults. So, if you have kids of your own, it is important to take ringworm seriously for them to avoid permanent, patchy hair loss at a young age.
What Is The Best Antifungal Treatment For Hair Loss?
You should consult with a doctor if you are looking to treat a fungal infection. You will likely be recommended or prescribed a medicated shampoo that contains ketoconazole or selenium sulfide. This will help slow or stop the spread of the infection while oral medication is used to treat the infection directly.
Because medicated shampoos can contain harsh chemicals, make sure you talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how long to use the shampoo and to not continue using it for longer than needed.
RHRLI Can Help Restore Hair Loss Due To A Variety Of Causes
Some fungal infections – like ringworm – can cause temporary hair loss which can become permanent if not properly treated in a timely matter. Even if fungal infections that threaten your hair are properly taken care of, most people will still suffer from some amount of hair thinning or loss over the course of their lives that are outside of their direct control.
For those experiencing hair loss, we utilize the minimally invasive ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant System for hair restoration… a procedure that produces exceptional results and will get you back to your day-to-day life in just a few days. Contact us today for a free consultation to restore your hair and your confidence.