Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1380995
36 indie stylist Volume 2 Issue 3 Cosmetologists and estheticians inspect the skin and scalp of the human race more frequently than anyone. They are not just artists, they are helpers in keeping skin healthy, and that includes the scalp. Cosmetologists are not physicians, but they are in a unique position to detect and refer scalp and skin disorders and diseases that may need medical attention. In your day-to-day practice, make it a point to observe the scalp and/or facial skin of every client you see. If you find a potential condition that alarms you, gently point it out to the client, and suggest they see a physician or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. A lesion is defined as a mark on the skin that is not part of the normal skin. Most lesions found on the scalp are benign. Scars from childhood or surgery (including facelifts!), benign freckles, birthmarks, and moles occur and are seen routinely. Skin tags are another common lesion. These frequently occurring lesions are most often benign—unless you notice bleeding or dried blood, or if the lesion is raised, such as a raised mole or skin tag that could get caught on a comb or easily scraped. In these incidences, the client should be referred to their doctor. COMMON INFLAMMATORY SCALP CONDITIONS PFB Ingrown hairs and pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) are both caused by ingrowing hairs. Most common in men in shaved areas, the hair has been cut so short that it grows into the side of the follicle, creating an inflammatory obstruction. The obstruction creates a low-oxygen environment in the follicle, ideal for bacteria to cause infection. The inflammation can proceed to being a papule, pustule, or even a cyst. PFB is more common than isolated ingrown hair pustules. It is frequently seen in African American men (but can occur in anyone who shaves closely) who have curly-patterned beard or scalp hair, and who shave areas on their head or scalp. PFB is most often more than a few lesions in any area. The lesions can also leave pigmented marks after they heal. cottonbro/pexels