Hair loss can be caused by any number of factors, and a commonly overlooked cause is the inflammatory disease known as folliculitis, which affects one or more hair follicles and, in chronic cases, may lead to hair loss. Its symptoms include rash, pimples and itching skin and it can occur anywhere on the skin where hair grows. If the folliculitis is chronic, a build-up of keratin (the fibrous protein that makes up hair and nails) may occur, resulting in a thickening of the skin known as follicular hyperkeratosis or the presence of keratin plugs, both of which block hair follicles and cause hair loss.
Folliculitis may be caused by infectious agents, the most common being bacteria or fungi. Other causes include nutritional deficiencies, certain drugs (such as steroids), and exposure to chlorated compounds commonly found in industry, usually in electrical conductors. It may also result from the damaging of hair follicles due to friction from clothing, blockage of follicles or even shaving.
Treatment of folliculitis is essential to prevent a chronic case, which can result in hair loss. It can usually be treated by keeping the affected area clean, avoiding friction with the area and limiting exposure to possible contaminates to avoid reinfection. Keep in mind, only chronic cases of folliculitis are likely to lead to hair loss. Hair loss can result from hundreds of possible reasons, of which folliculitis is only one among many. Do your research and avoid common dangers that can lead to your hair loss.