Understanding Permanent Hair Follicle Damage: Causes and Symptoms

When we take a gander at our hair and see the scalp appearing on the other side, many of us freeze. We need to realize what's happened to our hair and, more importantly, whether our hair is going to grow back. Hair grows from the follicles on our head, so it makes sense to know whether those follicles are still alive and capable of creating hair.

What are Hair Follicles, Anyway?

Essentially, a follicle is a cell-lined sac from which hair grows. Oil glands called sebaceous glands are attached to the follicles, and they produce a greasy substance called sebum. This sebum climbs the follicle to the scalp, where it oils our skin and hair.

The Importance of Hair Follicles

When hair follicles don't get enough support, they can die. They simply become thinner and weaker until they eventually fall out of our heads. At this point, our scalp loses hair and we see thinning.

However, when our hair thins, it doesn't necessarily mean our hair follicles are dead. Sometimes for various reasons, our hair follicles go into a resting stage, and new hair growth temporarily stops. In the hair cycle, this resting stage is called the telogen stage. During this stage, while the old hair rests, new hair begins to grow. Thus, even if our hair is in this resting stage, it is still growing.

Signs of Permanent Hair Follicle Damage

When it comes to determining whether your hair follicles are actually dead, it's important to consider the following symptoms:

No Hairs on the Scalp: If you see no hair on your scalp—regardless of how weak, thin, short, or fluffy it is—this may indicate that your hair follicles are still healthy and growing new hair. Dead Spots: Sometimes, dead spots can appear on the scalp, which may look like bald patches. However, if these spots are dormant follicles, they might resume growth once treated. Visible Stubble: The skin may remain hairless, but if you see some visible stubble, it could indicate that a few follicles are still active and regenerating.

Professional Diagnosis: Dermatologists and Trichologists

A dermatologist or a trichologist can provide a more accurate assessment. A trichologist can use a trichoscope to determine if the damage is near the upper end of the follicle, while a dermatologist can perform a biopsy to examine if there is lower-level damage.

It's important to seek professional advice if you're concerned about your hair follicles, especially if you've experienced any kind of injury or accident. Most often, only 1 to 3 follicles may be damaged, and you'd have to look carefully to find them.

The Appearance of Damaged Hair

A damaged or distressed hair follicle often produces unusual-looking short curly hair. This hair is sometimes grey or a different color from your normal hair. It may look like a piece of fishing line that's been stretched out and then curled back up.

When hair follicles are damaged, they produce short, curly hair with a different texture, often appearing pale or grey, which is distinctly different from the normal hair texture and color.

Conclusion: Maintaining Scalp Health

Knowing whether your hair follicles are still active is crucial for your overall scalp health. By being aware of the signs of damage and seeking the right medical advice, you can take the necessary steps to ensure healthy hair growth and prevent further damage.