Help, my hair!

[Gabbyeva54]

Hi guys, I hope all of you are well. Over the past couple months my hair has been breaking off because of my Netherton's Syndrome. I act like it's fine and everything to stop my mom from freaking out, but it's not really true. I don't want to have bald like spots at the age of 15, it's already hard enough in school with this condition. My skin finally being clear for once, of course something else has to happen. Does anyone know anything that will make my hair grow back, or start coming back a little bit? Thanks.~

[Shell567]

Hi Hermione, hair loss associated with Netherton's often improves as you get older.

Some self-help tips:

1. Avoid excessive brushing and combing, braiding, hair weaving, heat treatments, straightening, perming and dyes.

2. Reduce exposure to sunlight – wear a hat.

3. Wash hair with gentle shampoo, and rinse with warm (not hot) water.

4. Apply a leave-in conditioner to freshly washed hair.

5. Do not use a hair dryer, or use it with a cool setting.

6. Discontinue isotretinoin and acitretin medications, unless essential. Seek medical advice before stopping any medications.

Hope this helps, Hermione. It must be very difficult for you.

Take care x

[Gabbyeva54 Volunteer in reply to Shell567]

Thanks Shell, I will be sure to try your advice, do you know of anything that will keep my hair really moisturized? I think a good deal of my hair breaking might be that I itch during the night, and even during the day not even thinking about it.

[Shell567]

Hi Hermione, there doesn't seem to be any particular conditioner recommended for NS. If you want to use a leave-in conditioner as well as a regular conditioner they have a wide selection on Amazon.

You could try conditioners that are formulated to suit frizzy or Afro-Caribbean hair types as these tend to be quite creamy and nourishing.

Some other tips:

1. Comb the hair gently to remove flaky skin.

2. Use a hair sunscreen spray if spending time in the sun.

3. Try to avoid swimming in salt water or chlorinated water.

4. Use a satin or silk pillowcase so that when you sleep your hair will be less likely to bend & break.

5. Antihistamine tablets may help relieve the itching.

*If I come across any good conditioning products I'll let you know.

[Shell567]

Hermione, a friend of mine has suggested some products.

Carol's Daughter: carolsdaughter.com/hair

Argan Oil: amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i...

Redken Extreme Anti-Snap: amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i...