Alopecia Universalis (AU) refers to hair loss from the scalp entirely along with hair loss all over from the other body parts as well. Other body parts includes arms, legs, eyelashes, eyebrows, armpits, pubic region, chest and inside the nose. It is a severe form of alopecia areata (hair loss in round spots), the difference is alopecia universalis causes complete hair loss. The hair loss of this type is non-scarring and not permanent. So, chances of hair regrowth are there. The real reason behind alopecia universalis is not clear till now. However, it is thought to be an autoimmune process. In this process, the body’s immune cells that normally help to fight infections start to attack the hair follicles out of a mistake thinking it to be something harmful to the body. This result in hair fall and also hinders growth of new hair.

Genetic and certain environmental factors tend to play a role in triggering the process of hair loss. Some of the environmental factors here includes stress, viral infection, some hormonal imbalance, toxins and an injury. Those having a family history of alopecia are at risk of it. Here some particular genes from both the parents are needed to pass this condition to their child. Many persons having alopecia might also be having thyroid issues, diabetes and atopic dermatitis ( a skin condition leading to skin inflammation with dry itchy skin) and some form of other autoimmune disease like lichen planus (a skin condition causing flat-topped, purple papules on skin), vitiligo (a skin condition characterised by patches of white skin from lack of normal pigmentation). Sometimes in some cases chemotherapy (a medical treatment to treat cancer) can result in alopecia universalis. This condition can begin as single or two tiny patches of hair loss. This may proceed quickly to form bald spots within a few days. There comes a point when all the hair of body are entirely lost. Mostly no other symptom attend it, but in some cases, itching and burning may be felt on the area of hair loss. Hair loss increases chances of sunburn. Hair loss from eyelashes increase the chance of debris to enter the eyes. Loss of hair from inside nose also increase chance of germs like bacteria, virus to get into the body and cause illness. Sufferers of alopecia universalis are also at risk of mood disorders, anxiety and depression.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy carries good scope to manage cases of hair loss. These medicines are recommended when hair loss occurs from scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, moustache, and genital area. Homeopathic medicines firstly aim to prevent worsening of the problem by halting further progression of hair loss from different body areas. Next, they aim to help in hair regrowth. The chances of hair regrowth vary from case to case depending on the intensity of hair loss. Homeopathy uses natural medicines to treat hair loss that are made from naturally occurring substances, hence are very safe to use with zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines for hair loss are selected from a long list of medicines. The prescription varies from case to case based on detailed evaluation of the characteristic individual symptoms in every cases. Hence, homeopathic medicines to treat hair loss should always be taken under supervision of a homeopathic doctor. Self-medication should not be done with any of the homeopathic medicines.

Homeopathic Medicines for Alopecia Universalis

1. Phosphorus – For Hair Loss In Bunches

Phosphorus is a top medicine to manage hair loss. This medicine is very helpful when there is hair loss in large bunches from the scalp. This is accompanied with itching on scalp. Scratching worsens the itching. There may be sweating on the head.

2. Kali Carb – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Eyebrows And Beard

It is another magnificent medicine for managing cases of hair loss. In cases needing this medicine, hair loss occurs from scalp, eyebrows and beard. Hair are very dry. There may be itching on the scalp. Burning may also be present. Itching, burning is worse in morning and evening.

3. Baryta Carb – For Hair Loss In Young People

Baryta Carb is the most important medicine to manage hair loss in young people. This medicine is of use for hair loss from the scalp. Top of the scalp is most affected in cases needing it. The scalp is also sensitive to touch. A sensation of ants crawling on head can accompany. Skin over the scalp feels tight.

4. Selenium – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Eyebrows, Moustache, Genitals

Selenium is beneficial when hair loss is noticed from scalp, eyebrows, and moustache area. Itching may be felt on the scalp in the evening. A tingling sensation on the scalp may be felt. Additionally, hair loss may occur from genital area as well. Body parts other than the above-mentioned areas could also face hair loss in cases needing selenium.

5. Natrum Mur – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Moustache, Beard And Genitals

Natrum Mur is another effective medicine to manage hair loss. It is suitable in cases of hair loss from scalp, moustache, beard and from genitals. Scalp may be sensitive to touch. Itching may be felt on scalp. Itching on external genitals can also be present.

6. Lycopodium – For Hair Loss From Scalp With Itching, Burning

Use of this medicine can be considered when hair strands fall from the scalp, attended with itching and burning on the scalp. The itching and burning worsens on getting warm. Hair loss is most marked from the sides of the scalp and top of scalp (vertex).

7. Silicea – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Eyebrows And Eyelashes

This medicine is recommended for cases where hair loss is most marked from scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes. Excessive sweating is present on the scalp in most cases needing this medicine. The scalp is tender to touch. Itchy spots may develop on the scalp. After scratching, these spots feel painful.

8. Fluoric Acid – When Hair Become Dry, Break And Fall Out

This medicine is suited when there is dryness of hair followed by breakage and falling out. Hair fall occurs in well-defined spots. Along with hair loss, scalp is sensitive to touch.

9. Graphites – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Moustache And Beard

This medicine is recommended for managing hair loss especially from scalp, moustache and beard. Long-term eruptions on scalp may develop. Burning sensation is felt on the top of the head.

10. Phosphoric Acid – For Hair Loss From Scalp, Genitals And Beard

This medicine is indicated for persons having loss of hair from scalp, genitals and beard. The hair are very greasy and tend to fall out. Itching on scalp can be present in some cases along with hair loss. There might be a history of grief or sorrow where this medicine is required.

 

 

Folliculitis refers to inflammation of hair follicles (pores in the skin through which hair grows) usually due to infection by bacteria, especially staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria get entrapped in the inflamed hair follicles leading to the formation of pus-filled bumps called pustules. It can affect any area of the skin where there is hair growth like the scalp (the most common area because of maximum number of hair follicles), armpits, beard, pubic area etc. When folliculitis affects the scalp and causes hair fall, then it is termed folliculitis decalvans. It causes patches of bald spots that can be round or oval shaped varying from case to case. The spots can be single or multiple in number.

Hair follicles that have been inflamed for long get destroyed which prevents new hair growth. When the hair strand falls off, scarring occurs that may cause permanent hair loss. The signs and symptoms of folliculitis may include pimples or pus-filled bumps around the hair follicles, when pustules break these get covered with scabs/crusts, pain, tenderness, itching and burning in the affected area. The exact cause behind this complaint is not clear. But it is thought to arise from infection with a bacteria known as staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria is normally present on the skin of every person but it does not cause any harm. In some persons, however, this bacteria may result in inflammation due to an abnormal response to this bacteria, the reason behind which is not clear yet. This inflammation can affect the hair follicle along with its destruction. With time, the hair strand falls followed by scar formation. That is why this hair loss is also known as cicatricial (scar formation) alopecia (means hair loss). Though this condition can occur in both males and females, men are more at risk.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers a very natural and effective treatment for cases of hair loss due to folliculitis. These medicines primarily help to halt further progression of the inflammation of hair follicles and prevent hair loss. They also work toward managing the pimples or pustules on the scalp and it’s attending itching, pain and burning. Following the arrest of further progression of the problem and control of its associated symptoms, they help in hair regrowth. The results of hair regrowth vary from case to case as per the duration and intensity of the problem. Homeopathic medicines in these cases is decided after detailed case analysis based on the characteristic features in every individual case. So, one should always consult a homeopathic doctor for best homeopathic prescription after getting an in depth case evaluation done.

Homeopathic Medicines For Hair Fall Due To Folliculitis

1. Silicea – Leading Homeopathic Medicine

Silicea is a topmost medicine in homeopathy to help cases of hair fall due to folliculitis. Its use is highly recommended when pustules (pus-filled bumps) appear on the head. Attended with itching, these eruptions are followed by hair loss. There is excessive sweating on the scalp in cases needing this medicine. The sweat smells sour. In some cases, the eruptions appear specifically on the back of the scalp. These eruption ooze pus followed by scab formation. Burning sensation and itching are felt in these eruptions. Silicea works both ways –preventing further pus-filled eruptions and healing of already present eruptions, as well as controlling its associated hair loss.

2. Mezereum – With Crusty Eruption With Pus Underneath

This is the next highly effective medicine to manage hair loss from folliculitis. The key feature to use this medicine is crusty eruptions on the head with pus underneath. Hair comes out in handfuls, besides the other complaints. There is oozing of sticky fluid from the eruptions present. There is intolerable itching in the eruptions. Burning sensation is also felt in them.

3. Hepar Sulph – With Painful Pimples Painful To Touch

Hepar Sulph gives wonderful results when there occur painful pimples on the scalp causing hair loss. The eruptions are sore to touch. The spots of hair loss can be large in cases needing this medicine. The eruptions itch intensely in the morning on waking up. On scratching, there is burning and pain in the eruptions. Eruptions are covered with scabs. When scabs tear apart, bleeding raw surface can be seen underneath. Along with the above complaints, there is excessive sweating on the scalp. The sweat has sour smell.

4. Sulphur – With Itchy Small Fluid-Filled Bumps

This medicine is highly useful for itchy, small fluid-filled bumps on the head especially on the top of the head. They may be covered with yellow or brownish crusts. It is attended with hair loss patches. Besides, Sulphur is also indicated for small pus-filled bumps that dry up and get covered with honey like scabs. Next, it is indicated for offensive-smelling eruptions on the scalp that ooze thick pus along with bleeding. Burning sensation is felt in these eruptions. In general, the scalp is sore to touch in cases needing Sulphur. There is also violent itching on scalp in evening time.

5. Arsenic Album – With Itching And Burning On Scalp

Arsenic Album is another beneficial medicine to manage hair loss. This medicine can be used when there occur circular patches of hair loss that are rough and covered with dry scales. It is accompanied by itching and burning, especially at night. The scalp is sensitive to touch and even combing or brushing is painful. There are pus-filled eruptions present on the scalp or scabs/crusts on scalp.

6. Phosphorus – With Itchy Pimples With Bald Spots

It is a very helpful medicine when there occur itchy pimples on the scalp and bald spots that are smooth and look clear and white or scaly. Hair loss usually occurs in bunches where this medicine is required. The scalp is quite itchy. Scratching worsens itching. Dryness and heat are felt on the scalp in addition to the above-mentioned features.

7. Merc Sol – For Pus-Filled Bumps With Yellow Crusts

This medicine can be considered in cases of moist pus-filled eruptions covered with yellow crusts. These eruptions tend to eat away the hair. The eruptions ooze fetid fluid. These are sensitive to pressure. There is bad-smelling, oily sweating on the head along with the above complaints. The hair loss is mostly visible on the sides of the scalp.

 

 

Hair fall after child delivery is a big concern for women. Medically it is known as postpartum hair loss or Telogen Effluvium. It is a temporary condition and quite normal. It mostly occurs two-four months after delivery and in most cases lasts for about six months. In majority of the cases, hair fullness returns around the child’s first birthday. If it doesn’t happen, then it’s time to go to a physician to find out other contributing factors behind the hair loss followed by proper diagnosis and treatment. Postpartum hair loss occurs from hormone changes during and after pregnancy. Level of hormone estrogen increases in the body in the last trimester (last three months) of pregnancy which makes hair grow thicker and become voluminous. However, after childbirth, there is a sudden decrease in estrogen levels. This leads to increased shedding of hair a few months after childbirth.

Hair grows out from follicles (an opening on the surface of skin from which hair strand grows). The shedding and growing of hair is a constant process and the cycle of hair growth is divided into three phases. The first is the anagen phase in which active hair growth occurs and 80 % to 90 % of hair is in this phase at a given time. This phase ranges from 2 to 6 yrs. Second phase is the catagen phase in which the shrinking of hair follicles occurs. The last is the telogen phase (resting phase) which has duration of around 3 months in which the hair falls out. When there is a drop in the hormones associated with pregnancy, there is rapid entering of excessive hair from the growth phase into the telogen phase which leads to hair loss a few months after child birth.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy is a great choice of safe and effective treatment option when it comes to treat hair fall after delivery. Homeopathic remedies work naturally to treat hair fall with zero side effects. They have given excellent clinical results in innumerable such cases. They firstly halt further progression of hair loss. Next, they help to aid hair regrowth. There is a long list of homeopathic medicines to treat hair fall after delivery. The most suitable medicine is selected as per every individual case based on symptom presentation. The potency, dose and repetition of medicine also varies from case to case. Therefore, it is advised to always consult a homeopathic physician before using any of these medicines. He/she will evaluate the case and prescribe the most suitable remedy.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Preventing Hair Loss After Delivery

There are numerous homeopathic medicines to deal with hair fall after delivery prescribed as per their characteristic features. Among these the top three recommended medicines include: Sepia, Natrum Mur and Lycopodium.

1. Sepia – Top Medicine

Sepia is a top recommended medicine for managing hair fall after delivery which has given excellent results. The scalp is usually dry in cases requiring this medicine. The roots of the hair may be sensitive to touch. There may be pimples on the forehead along the hair margins. In some cases, headache may be felt along with the above features. It is also the best choice of medicine for dealing with certain other complaints after delivery like depression occurring in some women after childbirth (postpartum depression), piles, vaginal discharge and breast inflammation (mastitis).

2. Natrum Mur – For Excessive Hair Fall Even On Touching Scalp

Natrum Mur is yet another important medicine that gives highly promising results in cases of hair fall after delivery. Females needing it may have hair fall even on touching the scalp. Hair fall mainly occurs from the front or the sides of the scalp where it is required. There may be white dandruff on the scalp. It can be attended with scalp itching. The scalp is oily or greasy to touch. Itchy eruptions along the hairline may be present. Episodes of intense headache may occur along with it. Complaint of anemia may be reported as well.

3. Lycopodium – For Hair Fall Mainly From Top Of Scalp

Lycopodium is the next prominent medicine to deal with cases of hair fall after delivery. Women needing it mainly experience hair fall from the top portion of the scalp (vertex) initially, followed by hair fall from the sides of the scalp (temporal region). Besides, the scalp may be itchy. Burning sensation on the scalp may attend. Dandruff with an offensive smell from the scalp may be present.

4. Calcarea Carb – For Hair Fall From Side Of Scalp

Another effective medicine for treating hair fall after delivery is Calcarea Carb. It is the most suitable when hair fall is occurring more from the sides. Hair fall is excessive while combing. Hair is dry in most cases. The scalp may be sensitive to touch. Sometimes yellowish white scaly dandruff may be present on the scalp. Excessive sweating on the scalp may be experienced along with the above complaints.

5. Phosphorus – For Excessive Hair Fall In Bunches

Phosphorus is highly valuable to manage cases where hair fall is excessive and the hair falls out in bunches. Hair loss mostly occurs from the front area of the scalp. Hair is usually dry with flaky dandruff on the scalp. Scalp is itchy as well. Itching worsens from scratching. It may be accompanied by burning sensation on the scalp.

6. Fluoric Acid – For Hair Loss In Spots

This medicine works well when hair loss occurs from well – defined spots on the scalp. Hair is dry and brittle leading to easy breaking off of hair. Scaly eruptions on the head and itching may be present.

7. Phosphoric Acid – For Greasy Hair Falling Out

This medicine is useful when the hair is greasy and falling out. There may be itching on the scalp. There may be premature greying of hair as well in some cases. It is also one of the best medicines when hair fall occurs from grief, sorrow or depression.

8. Silicea – With Excessive Sweating On Scalp

Silicea is very beneficial when along with hair fall there is excessive sweating on the scalp. The sweat smells foul. Coldness on the scalp may be present. The scalp may be sensitive to touch making combing difficult.

9. Carbo Veg – For Marked Hair Loss From Back Portion Of Scalp

Use of this medicine can be considered when hair fall is the most marked from the back side of the scalp (occipital area). There is excessive itching in the scalp especially towards the evening. Scalp is also very sensitive to pressure.

10. Cantharis – For Hair Fall On Combing

When hair fall is majorly occurring when combing hair, Cantharis is the best choice of medicine. Along with hair fall, scaly dandruff on the scalp may be noted. A burning sensation may be felt on the sides of the head.

11. Nitric Acid – For Hair Fall Majorly From Top Of Scalp

Nitric Acid is well indicated when hair loss is mainly occurring from the top of the scalp. Besides, there may be headache. Eruptions can also appear on the scalp with a splinter like pain or pain on touch.

12. Sulphur – For Dry, Rough Hair Falling Out

Sulphur is considered in cases where hair is dry, rough and falls easily. Washing hair worsens the complaint. Scalp itches violently in the evening. Scratching the scalp causes intense burning. Scalp is sore to touch. Itchy, painful pimples may be present on the scalp.

13. Hepar Sulph – To Manage Hair Fall With Painful Pimples On Scalp

Hepar Sulph is indicated for cases of hair fall with painful pimples on the scalp. There may be excessive sweating with foul smell on the scalp. The scalp may be sensitive to combing. There may be burning and itching on the scalp in the morning after waking up.