GLANDS OF THE SKIN

The Sebaceous Gland The sebaceous gland or oil glands secrete a natural oil called sebum. This oil keeps the skin and hair soft and helps keep the skin waterproof. The secretion of sebum also helps stop the loss of moisture from within the body.

Sometimes the amount of sebum secreted can change when a person undergoes a change to their lifestyle (eg change of diet), or because of hormonal changes ( eg. during adolescence)

THE SUDORIFEROUS GLAND The function of the sudoriferous gland is to excrete sweat, which is a colourless watery fluid composed of 98% water, 1% salts and 1% acids and waste products, from the body onto the surface of the skin. Health, heat, temperature and activity can alter the makeup of sweat produced by the body.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS of SCALP TREATMENT

Pityriasis Pityriasis simplex Technical term for simple dandruff and is generally referred to as dry dandruff. Pityriasis simplex it is not contagious.

Pityriasis capitis This is a more advanced form of dandruff, where the scales tend to stick to the scalp. These scales are waxy, yellowish in colour and crusty to touch. If the scales are removed from the scalp, the skin underneath may appear pink. Pityriasis capitis it is not contagious.

Pityriasis Seborrhoea This is an oily condition of the skin caused by overactivity of the sebaceous glands. Acute dandruff brought about by an excessive discharge of sebum. The hair becomes very lank and greasy and the scalp may be covered by thick sticky scales which become an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

TREATMENT: Appropriate shampoo procedures according to Manufacturers Instructions.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis This condition usually occurs on the scalp, but can spread to the face and other areas of the upper body and can be quite itchy. In its mild stage seborrheic dermatitis can be recognised as greasy scales over a pinkish area of skin Chronic condition- the skin tends to become dull and yellowish red in colour, covered with greasy scales, with the scalp quite moist under the scales.

TREATMENT If the condition is in its early stages, a mild scalp-cleansing shampoo used daily may help clear the problem. However, when seborrheic dermatitis is beyond the mild stages the client should be advised to see a skin specialist or trichologist. NOTE In its advanced stage can be confused with psoriasis.

Dermatitis Dermatitis is an acute inflammation of the skin which can appear at any time. It is caused by an irritant coming into contact with the skin and is a condition to which the hairdresser should pay very special attention.

Dermatitis Symptoms - redness of the skin which may be followed by blisters and running sores.

TREATMENT: Avoid the irritant Protect yourself from coming into contact with the irritant by using: Gloves Barrier creams etc. Seek medical advice if condition persists

OILY HAIR & SKIN When the sebaceous gland makes too much oil it travels up the hair shaft or skin Common in adolescence Often associated with pimples Can cause skin to feel itchy

TREATMENT: Appropriate shampoo procedures according to Manufacturers Instructions.