Professional Scalp and Hair Health Diagnosis
A healthy scalp requires more than standard shampoos. I combine precise diagnosis and medical-grade care to treat persistent inflammation, flaking, and follicular issues at the source.
An itchy, inflamed scalp is a sign of underlying distress. In this video, I discuss microfollicular scalp inflammation, its causes such as overwashing or hormonal imbalances, and effective management strategies. These include using soothing serums, gentle shampoos, and identifying the root cause to prevent associated hair loss.
Scalp acne, clinically known as folliculitis, presents as red, inflamed bumps on the scalp. It is an inflammatory condition of the hair follicles that requires a specific diagnosis and treatment approach.
The reasons for scalp acne are varied. They include excessive oil production, blocked hair follicles, fungal or bacterial infections, irritation from hair products, and in some cases, reactions to certain medications.
Managing scalp folliculitis involves a targeted regimen. This can include medicated shampoos with active ingredients like ketoconazole or salicylic acid, topical creams, and sometimes oral medications, alongside avoiding harsh hair products.
Scalp flaking is a common issue, especially during the dry winter months. Understanding how to manage and reduce this condition is key to maintaining scalp health and comfort.
Hot water can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flaking. I advise my patients to wash their hair with lukewarm water instead to protect the scalp's moisture balance.
For scalp flaking, I recommend using a clarifying shampoo with active ingredients specifically chosen based on the underlying cause of the flaking, whether it be dryness, oiliness, or a fungal issue.
About this collection
Persistent scalp issues often stem from more than just hygiene; they frequently signal an imbalance in your skin microbiome or underlying hormonal health. Instead of relying on over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos that may further disrupt your skin barrier, I focus on identifying the specific trigger—whether it is fungal, inflammatory, or product-related—to prescribe a precise, corrective clinical regimen.
Diagnosis is the cornerstone of my practice. Many patients visit my clinic after exhausting generic shampoos and DIY remedies, only to find their scalp inflammation persists. Through digital dermoscopy, I examine the subsurface layers of your scalp to differentiate between conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and folliculitis.
My treatment philosophy centers on barrier repair and inflammation control. If you are struggling with scalp acne, we focus on bacterial control and follicular health. For those experiencing persistent flaking, we move beyond hydration to manage the scalp's microbiome. I do not advocate for aggressive chemical treatments that may aggravate sensitive follicles. Instead, we map out a medical regimen that addresses internal triggers, such as hormonal fluctuations or nutritional deficiencies, alongside external management.
Expect a structured roadmap. We will review your current hair care products to identify potential irritants, establish a non-irritating washing frequency, and introduce pharmaceutical-grade actives only when clinically necessary. My goal is not just to clear the symptoms, but to restore your scalp’s integrity so it can effectively support long-term hair health.
Malavika Kohli
I have spent over three decades studying the science of skin and scalp health. My focus is always on diagnosing the root cause of your concern, ensuring that we move past temporary fixes to provide lasting, clinical relief.
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