Winter Haircare Q&A with Dr. Yolanda Lenzy, M.D.

as seen in Bronze Magazine

Taking care of your hair and scalp is super important to prevent hair loss or scalp issues. However, if you have issues like alopecia or scalp psoriasis, it is best to seek help from a dermatologist before tending to those issues on your own. Here are some helpful hair care tips for those of you who may be having scalp issues:-
 

How can my family members reduce their hair loss from stress?

Dr. Yolanda Lenzy: First, you have to pinpoint what is causing the stress. That could be anything – job, family, anxiety, etc. Once you pinpoint those stressors, you must find ways to relieve yourself from those stressors. Stress reduction is very important. You can start doing Yoga, talk to a friend, take some time off from work, or whatever you see fit. We have two hair cycles, so instant hair growth doesn’t happen overnight; it will start to grow back 6 to 9 months after the event.

How can you begin to regrow the hair that was once lost from psoriasis? How can you improve the scalp health from psoriasis?

Dr. Yolanda Lenzy: There are two ways to begin regrowing the hair and improve scalp health. After you have seen a dermatologist, you either take oral medication or topical medication for the scalp. You must treat the scalp first because it does stunt growth. Also, make sure you are seeing a primary care doctor so you can be screened for other illnesses. Make sure you stay on a healthy diet and stay active.

How can you combat-stress induced psoriasis while battling environmental aggressors such as Winter?

Dr. Yolanda Lenzy: Find a satin-lined hat to keep the moisture in during the winter. In the house, it is good to have a humidifier. I also recommend Dove’s Amplify Texture line because those products will give you the hydration that you need. On last thing is to buy a steamer!

What are some of the best ways to determine what’s causing an itchy scalp?

Dr. Yolanda Lenzy: First, take a look and see what the problem is. A dermatologist will look at it from a microscope. Then you must see what products were introduced and do a process of elimination. The dermatologist can also do a patch test to see what you are allergic to.

When it comes to alopecia, how can one begin to recover the hair that’s been lost?

Dr. Yolanda Lenzy: First, get an acute diagnosis. Alopecia is such a broad word and there are several different types. Once you get a diagnosis, you can properly be treated. Clients think there is one type of alopecia and you can get the same treatment as your friend. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that.