Seborrheic alopecia is clearly one of the most common hair loss conditions in bald or partially bald men. It can also affect women, especially during the menopause or after androgen treatment.
Why is it called “seborrheic” alopecia?
Seborrheic alopecia is exclusively caused by abnormally excessive sebum, which accelerates the hair’s life cycle. This abnormal sebum secretion is caused by hormone disruptions.
Sebum, an oily substance secreted by the sebaceous gland, is basically a natural protector against external aggression. The sebaceous gland produces sebum which, combined with water from the sweat glands, forms the layer of skin that covers and protects the scalp.
However, when it is produced excessively, sebum becomes harmful: the hair’s life cycle accelerates and the hair falls out more quickly. Other disturbing effects occur: the hair becomes heavy, loses its shine, strength and volume, and falls out. In some way, sebum prevents the hair from growing normally and weakens it, eventually causing it to fall out. This excess produces fatty acids, which cause irritation, itching on the scalp, and dandruff.
