Interview transcription:
In an interview, Penelope Pratsou speaks about whether there is anything that you’re doing that could actually accelerate the process of hair loss like washing or brushing your hair too much.
Is there anything I’m doing that is accelerating my hair loss?
Penelope Pratsou: I wouldn’t ever restrict anyone from washing their hair. I would tell them to carry on as normal, and they can go to the hairdresser as usual. Hair brushing, that’s a time when you might notice that you’re losing hair. That’s especially true of certain types of non-scarring hair loss like telogen effluvium, which some women can get after childbirth for example or after a period of emotional stress or trauma. It’s a sign that there’s something going on, so there’s no need to avoid brushing your hair because the hair cycle being what it is, you would have been destined to lose that hair anyway…
Penelope Pratsou: However, there are certain types of hair loss where tight and restrictive hairstyles can encourage hair loss or can even trigger it. That’s especially true in certain hairstyles like weaves or tight hairstyles where your hair is pulled back, and that can trigger a scarring hair loss, and certainly, it wouldn’t help the situation.
That’s something that I would go into with regards to the history and encourage you to avoid doing that, but everything else is absolutely fine, whether you want to dye your hair or style it in certain ways, is absolutely fine.
If you notice that you have any of the symptoms or conditions that we’ve just discussed, we invite you to book a consultation with Dr Penelope Pratsou. She’ll be able to assess your situation and give you a personalised treatment plan.
About the author
Dr Penelope Pratsou | Consultant Dermatologist
MBChB, MRCP (UK) (Dermatology)
I’m Dr Penelope Pratsou, a skilled independent Consultant Dermatologist based in Berkshire. I have specialist expertise in the diagnosis and management of all skin cancers, and in performing mole checks. I’m a trained skin surgeon and remove skin cancers, moles, skin tags, cysts and warts.
I also have invaluable experience in dealing with all skin conditions, from the common skin complaints of acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, to the rarer and more complex skin problems, having seen it all through years of NHS work.
After I obtained my Membership to the Royal College of Physicians, I undertook rigorous specialist training in dermatology, before being appointed as a Consultant Dermatologist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading. There, I helped set up and lead a busy clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of suspected skin cancer. I was also actively involved in supervising and training both dermatology and GP trainees.
Alongside my increasingly busy private practice, I have maintained an NHS practice in Oxford in order to continue to engage with challenging cases and to develop my specialist interest in skin allergy.
