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Mold in Your Hair? It Can Happen If You Don't Take Care of Your Scalp
by Jane Meggitt
The idea of mold in your hair – or anywhere on your body – turns your stomach. Yet the common practice of going to bed with wet locks can actually cause mold growth on the scalp. Sure, you’ve probably gone to bed with a wet head many times to no ill effect, but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen. Good hair hygiene really means good scalp care, and sleeping with wet hair can prove harmful to your scalp.
Bacteria in the Bedding
Even if you wash your pillowcases and other bedding regularly, they still carry bacteria and molds. If considerable time elapses between bedding washes, these organisms have more opportunity to grow. The molds found in most homes, which end up on pillows, can cause scalp issues such as dandruff and excessive flaking. Mold grows when the following combination occurs: wet and dark. If that describes your hair and your bedroom, you are risking scalp contamination. That’s particularly true if you sleep with your hair in a bun or ponytail.
Hair Weaves and Extensions
People partial to hair weaves and extensions are at particular risk for mold formation. Never leave a weave or extensions on for more than two months. If the real hair under the weave or extension gets wet, it becomes a mold factory.
If your weave or extension smells the least bit off, head to the hairdresser immediately. Once the weave is removed, go to the doctor. The physician will prescribe shampoos to eradicate the mold. Preventives include tea tree oil and vinegar, both of which kill mold.
Household Mold and Hair Loss
Mold in the house can cause respiratory and other serious issues. It can also result in hair loss as an allergic reaction of your immune system. If there is mold in your house, it is crucial to have professional remediation done as soon as possible. Fortunately, most people who experience hair loss due to mold will regrow hair once they are no longer exposed to the contaminant.
Other Wet Hair Issues
While moldy hair leads the pack in terms of grossness, it’s far from the only wet hair issue. Brushing wet hair causes breakage – use a comb instead. Sleeping on a wet head leads to breakage, as well, along with frizziness. If you don’t want to or aren’t able to use a hair dryer before hitting the sack, towel dry your hair to get as much moisture out as possible.
If you or someone you know would like more information about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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