Excessive Heat and Hair Loss

Kenny English25 Oct, 2023Other

For those who work strenuously in high temperature conditions, especially where the air is humid, excessive sweat and dirt can lead to a different set of problems. This provides a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which then causes scalp irritation, fungal infections, and inflammation of the hair follicles, otherwise known as folliculitis. Left untreated, folliculitis in severe cases can lead to hair loss in affected areas. This is because chronic inflammation can damage hair follicles and disrupt the normal growth phases. The condition is then referred to as scarring alopecia and it can be permanent. Cyclists in particular, as well as any athletes who wear headgear in their sports, should be on the lookout for folliculitis. This can be exacerbated by the helmet trapping heat and moisture, with the added problems of friction from the helmet and bacterial growth in the padding that has contact with the scalp.