The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 278 No 7447 p431-434
14 April 2007

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Scalp problems in the pharmacy

Christine Clark looks at scalp conditions, including dandruff and hair loss

Continuing professional development articles

SUMMARY

The scalp covers the top of the head and comprises five layers of tissue, the first letters of which conveniently spell scalp:

• Skin Skin contains hair follicles, sweat glands, many sebaceous glands, arteries, and veins. The skin of the scalp is relatively thick and is usually hairy.

• Connective tissue Connective tissue contains dense fibrous and fatty tissue, arteries, veins, lymphatic vessels and cutaneous nerves. Wounds that penetrate this layer tend to bleed profusely because the dense tissue does not retract and close blood vessels in the way that other tissues do.

• Aponeurosis The aponeurosis is a thin (1–2mm thick) tendinous layer.

• Loose areolar tissue Loose areolar tissue connects the aponeurosis to the pericranium. It is predominantly vascular.

• Pericranium The pericranium is the tissue enveloping the bones of the skull.

Pharmacists are often asked for advice on itchy scalps. Common causes include seborrhoeic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis (PJ, 21 May 2005, pp622–6), head lice (to be covered in an article later this year) and tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) and, in many cases, various treatments can be recommended.

Some people, however, simply suffer from a dry itchy scalp, which can be influenced by diet, general health and season. In such cases, pharmacists can give general advice, such as switching to a milder shampoo (eg, a baby shampoo) and washing the hair less frequently.

For many people, loss of hair or other visible scalp conditions can cause immense distress, and sensitivity is required when dealing with these problems.

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