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Dry hair

Alternative Names

Hair - dry

Considerations

Dry hair is hair that does not have enough moisture and oil to maintain its normal sheen and texture.

Causes

• Anorexia nervosa
• Excessive washing, or using harsh soaps or alcohols
• Excessive blow-drying
• Dry air (environmental dryness)
• Menkes kinky hair syndrome
• Malnutrition (for example, kwashiorkor disease)
• Underactive parathyroid (hypoparathyroidism)
• Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)

Home Care

• Shampoo less frequently -- perhaps only once or twice a week
• Add conditioners
• Avoid blow drying and harsh styling products

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

• Your hair does not improve with gentle treatment
• You have hair loss
• You have any other unexplained symptoms

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may ask the following questions:

• Has your hair always been slightly dry?
• When did the unusual hair dryness first start?
• Is it always present, or is it off and on?
• What are your eating habits?
• What kind of shampoo is used?
• How often do you wash your hair?
• Do you use a conditioner? What type?
• How do you normally style the hair?
• Do you use a hair dryer? What type? How often?
• What other symptoms are also present?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Examination of the hair under the microscope
• Blood tests

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.