Your Questions Answered

Most scalp conditions are not contagious, but a few exceptions do exist.

Conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema are linked to internal factors such as genetics, stress, or an imbalance in your scalp’s natural microbiome. These are not passed from person to person, even through shared brushes or towels.

However, some scalp conditions can be contagious — most notably:

• Ringworm of the scalp (Tinea Capitis): A fungal infection that can spread through close contact or by sharing hair tools, hats, or pillowcases.
• Head lice: Not a scalp condition as such, but often mistaken for one. Lice are easily spread through direct contact.

Several scalp issues can affect your comfort and hair health. While symptoms often overlap, proper diagnosis is key. At Hove Hair Clinic, we commonly see:

• Dandruff (Seborrhoeic Dermatitis) – Causes itching and flaking, often due to yeast imbalance. Triggers include stress, cold weather, and harsh hair products.
• Psoriasis – An autoimmune condition with red, scaly patches. It can itch, burn, or feel sore and often runs in families.
• Eczema: Chronic dryness and itchiness, often linked to allergies or sensitive skin. Flares can be triggered by products, weather, or hormones.
• Folliculitis: Inflamed or infected hair follicles, causing red bumps or spots. Caused by bacteria, yeast, friction, or product build-up.
• Tinea Capitis (Ringworm): A contagious fungal infection with round, scaly patches and hair breakage. Requires antifungal treatment.
• Contact Dermatitis: Allergic or irritant reaction to hair products, causing redness, burning, or itching. Patch testing can help identify triggers.
• Lichen Planopilaris (LPP): A rare condition that can cause scarring hair loss. Early diagnosis is vital to protect hair follicles.

Yes, certain scalp conditions can lead to hair loss — either temporarily or, in some cases, permanently if left untreated. The health of your scalp has a direct impact on the health of your hair, so when the scalp is inflamed, infected, or imbalanced, the hair follicles often suffer too.

• Inflammation or infection - Conditions like psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, or folliculitis can inflame or block follicles, leading to shedding.
• Itching and scratching - Conditions such as eczema or contact dermatitis can cause trauma to follicles through repeated scratching.
• Fungal infections - Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) can cause patchy hair loss but is usually reversible with treatment.
• Autoimmune conditions - Issues like lichen planopilaris or discoid lupus can cause scarring alopecia, which may lead to permanent loss if untreated.
• Poor scalp health - Product build-up, blocked follicles, or microbial imbalance can restrict growth — often reversible with the right care.

At Hove Hair Clinic, we help identify the underlying cause and provide tailored treatments to restore scalp health and protect your hair.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Consultation & Health History
   We look at your symptoms, lifestyle, stress levels, diet, medications, and family history to help identify possible triggers.
2. Scalp & Hair Examination
   We check for inflammation, flaking, thinning, or scarring, and assess the condition of your scalp, follicles and hair strands.
3. Mediscope (Scalp Microscopy)
   Using a digital camera, we examine your follicles in detail — looking for signs like blocked pores, miniaturised follicles, or inflammation.
4. Blood Test Referrals
   If needed, we recommend blood tests (via your GP or privately) to rule out internal causes like thyroid issues, anaemia or hormone imbalances.
5. DNA TrichoTest (optional)
   This advanced test shows how your genes affect hair growth, nutrition, and treatment response — helping us personalise your plan even further.

By combining all of this, we can diagnose the cause and create a treatment plan tailored to you — whether you're dealing with scalp irritation, hair thinning, or long-term hair loss.

An unhealthy scalp doesn’t always look the same — and sometimes the signs are more about how it feels. Common symptoms include:

• Flaking or scaling
  Often linked to dandruff, psoriasis, or fungal infections. May be accompanied by redness, itching, or oily build-up.
• Redness or inflammation
  Can be caused by allergies, eczema, psoriasis, or folliculitis.
• Soreness or tenderness
  Painful areas may indicate inflamed follicles, tight hairstyles, or infection.
• Too oily or too dry
  Excess oil can clog follicles; dryness can lead to irritation and flaking — both can disrupt healthy growth.
• Persistent itching or burning
  Could signal scalp eczema, product irritation, or an underlying condition like ringworm.
• Sores, bumps, or blisters
  May indicate infection and should be assessed, especially if persistent.
• Hair thinning or shedding
  Often a sign your scalp isn’t functioning well — and the follicles are struggling.

If you're noticing any of these signs, it's worth getting a professional assessment. A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair.

Pityriasis amiantacea – (pronounced pit-ih-RYE-uh-sis a-mee-an-TAY-sha) is a scalp condition where thick, silvery or yellowish scales stick to the scalp and hair shafts, often forming crust-like sheets. It can look alarming — but it’s not contagious and can be treated effectively.

It’s usually a reaction to an underlying scalp condition, rather than a condition in itself. The scalp forms excess scale as a way of protecting itself when inflamed or irritated.

Common causes include:

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis – chronic scalp inflammation with oily build-up and flaking
• Psoriasis – rapid skin cell turnover causing thick scaling and plaques
• Contact or atopic dermatitis – allergic or irritant reactions to hair products
• Fungal or bacterial infections – such as tinea capitis or staphylococcus
• Lichen planopilaris – a scarring autoimmune condition that may cause compact scaling

Does it cause hair loss?

Yes, but usually only temporarily if treated early. The scales can block follicles or cause hair to shed or break. If left untreated — particularly if there’s an underlying scarring condition — it may lead to permanent loss in some areas.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common scalp condition that causes flaking, redness, itching, and sometimes greasy or yellowish scales. It can range from mild dandruff to more inflamed patches. It’s not contagious, but it can be persistent without the right care.

What causes it?

There’s no single cause — it usually develops due to a combination of factors:

1. Yeast (Malassezia) overgrowth
   This yeast lives on all skin, but in some people, it triggers irritation and flaking.
2. Excess oil production
   More oil = more food for yeast, leading to inflammation and build-up.
3. Skin type and genetics
   People with oily or sensitive skin, or a family history of scalp issues, are more prone.
4. Stress and fatigue
   Stress doesn’t cause it, but it can trigger or worsen flare-ups.
5. Seasonal changes
   Symptoms often worsen in cold, dry months or hot, humid weather.
6. Underlying health conditions
   More common in people with Parkinson’s, immune disorders, or hormonal changes — though it can affect anyone.

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, raised patches with thick, silvery scales. It’s not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable, itchy, and sometimes sore — especially if left untreated.

What causes it?

Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune response that speeds up the skin cell renewal process. New skin cells are produced too quickly and build up on the surface, forming thick, scaly plaques.

Several factors can increase the risk or trigger flare-ups:

1. Genetics
   Psoriasis often runs in families, so you may be more prone if a close relative has it.
2. Immune system dysfunction
   Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, where the body mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.
3. Stress
   Emotional stress is a common trigger, and can also make existing flare-ups worse.
4. Infections or illness
   Throat infections (especially strep) and viruses can trigger psoriasis, particularly in younger people.
5. Hormonal changes
   Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can sometimes influence flare-ups.

Hair loss can be attributed to a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, medical conditions such as alopecia, medications, and lifestyle factors like stress and diet. At Hove Hair Clinic, we conduct thorough assessments to identify the underlying causes of hair loss, allowing us to tailor treatments that address your specific needs.

We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including micro-needling, laser therapy, DNA testing and K18 treatments. Micro-needling stimulates hair follicles, laser therapy enhances blood circulation to the scalp, DNA testing determines which products will and won’t work for your hair and creates a personalised prescription to encourage regrowth and K18 treatments repair hair at a molecular level. Each treatment is tailored to your unique condition, ensuring optimal results.

Hair growth depends on the right balance of nutrients — and when your body is low on certain vitamins or minerals, your hair is often the first to suffer. Here are the most common deficiencies linked to hair loss:

1. Iron (Ferritin)

Low iron is a leading cause of thinning in women, even if your levels are within the "normal" range. It can cause shedding, slow regrowth, and reduced hair density.

2. Vitamin D

Essential for healthy hair cycling. Low levels can lead to increased shedding and have been linked to autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata.

3. B Vitamins (B12, Folate, Biotin)

Vital for cell renewal and follicle function. B12 deficiency is especially common in vegans or those with gut absorption issues.

4. Zinc

Supports follicle repair and oil control. Low levels can cause both shedding and scalp irritation.

5. Protein

Hair is made of keratin, so poor protein intake can lead to weak, brittle strands and more breakage or fall.

We often recommend blood testing (via your GP or privately) to check for underlying deficiencies. For deeper insight, we also offer the Fragron DNA TrichoTest, which shows how your body processes key nutrients — and highlights exactly what vitamins your hair needs for optimal growth.

Stress can have a significant and lasting effect on your hair and scalp — though the link isn’t always obvious. Whether emotional (like anxiety or grief) or physical (such as illness or surgery), your body often reflects stress through your hair.

1. Telogen Effluvium (Excessive Shedding)

Stress can push more hairs into the resting (telogen) phase, leading to noticeable shedding 6–12 weeks later.
What many people don’t realise: the effects can be delayed by months — or even years, especially after long-term or traumatic stress. That’s why it can be hard to identify without expert help.

2. Slower Regrowth

Stress doesn’t just cause shedding — it can also delay regrowth by:

• Raising cortisol levels (which disrupt the hair cycle)
• Reducing blood flow to the scalp
• Interfering with nutrient absorption (iron, B12, etc.)
• Impacting sleep, diet, and hormones

Even after shedding stops, recovery can take time — especially if the stress remains unresolved.

3. Chronic Stress and Ongoing Thinning

Long-term stress can contribute to gradual thinning and may worsen conditions like female pattern hair loss, PCOS, or scalp inflammation.

If you suspect stress is affecting your hair, we’re here to help uncover the cause and guide you through a plan to support regrowth — both physically and emotionally.

Telogen effluvium is a common type of hair loss that causes excess daily shedding, often all over the scalp. It’s usually temporary and happens when more hairs than normal shift into the resting (telogen) phase of the growth cycle at the same time.

What causes it?

It’s usually triggered by physical or emotional stress, which disrupts the normal hair cycle. Shedding typically starts 6–12 weeks after the trigger, though in some cases, the delay can be longer — making it hard to pinpoint without expert help.

Common triggers include:

1. Illness or infection
   High fever, viral infections, or recovery from illness (e.g. Covid) can shock the hair cycle.
2. Surgery or physical trauma
   Operations, accidents, or even significant blood loss can cause temporary shedding.
3. Emotional stress
   Grief, anxiety, burnout, or major life changes can all trigger telogen effluvium — even if the emotional toll happened months ago.
4. Nutrient deficiencies
   Low iron (ferritin), B12, vitamin D, or protein can all affect healthy hair growth.
5. Hormonal shifts
   Post-pregnancy, stopping contraception, menopause, or thyroid changes can all impact the hair cycle.
6. Rapid weight loss or dietary restriction
   Crash diets or bariatric surgery can result in hair shedding due to sudden nutritional shifts.
7. Medications
   Certain medications (e.g. antidepressants, beta blockers, retinoids) are also known triggers.

Diffuse alopecia refers to even hair thinning across the entire scalp, rather than in patches or a receding pattern. It can be subtle at first — often noticed as a loss of overall volume, a wider parting, or more hair fall than usual — and may be temporary or long-term depending on the cause.

What causes it?

Diffuse hair loss is a symptom, not a diagnosis — and it can be caused by a range of internal or external factors. Common causes include:

1. Telogen Effluvium
   One of the most common causes. This is when stress, illness, or hormonal changes push more hairs into the resting (telogen) phase, leading to increased daily shedding.
2. Nutritional deficiencies
   Low levels of iron (ferritin), vitamin D, B12, zinc, or protein can all lead to diffuse thinning, especially in women.
3. Thyroid imbalances
   Both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions can affect the hair growth cycle, causing diffuse loss.
4. Hormonal changes
   Menopause, post-pregnancy changes, stopping HRT or contraception, and PCOS can all trigger thinning across the scalp.
5. Medications
   Certain medications, including antidepressants, beta blockers, and some acne treatments, can cause gradual shedding.
6. Chronic illness or autoimmune conditions
   Conditions like lupus, long COVID, or chronic fatigue syndrome can also contribute to generalised thinning.

Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss)

In some cases, diffuse thinning is an early sign of this genetic form of hair loss, especially when miniaturisation is seen on the crown or parting.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss, often appearing as round or oval bald spots on the scalp. It can also affect the eyebrows, lashes, or other body hair in some cases.

What causes it?

Alopecia areata happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing them to stop producing hair. The exact reason this happens isn’t fully understood, but several factors are thought to contribute:

1. Autoimmune response
   It’s classified as an autoimmune disorder, where the body targets its own healthy hair follicles as if they were a threat.
2. Genetics
   It often runs in families. If a close relative has alopecia areata or another autoimmune condition (like thyroid disease or vitiligo), your risk may be higher.
3. Stress
   Emotional or physical stress can sometimes trigger the first episode or worsen flare-ups, though it’s not the root cause.
4. Viral infections or illness
   In some cases, the condition may be triggered after an illness or immune system disruption.
5. Other autoimmune conditions
   It’s more common in people with conditions like thyroid disorders, coeliac disease, or lupus.

Alopecia areata can vary from small patches that regrow on their own to more extensive or recurring loss.

Alopecia totalis is a rare form of autoimmune hair loss where all of the hair on the scalp is lost. It’s considered a more advanced form of alopecia areata, which usually begins with patchy loss before progressing.

What causes it?

Like other types of autoimmune alopecia, alopecia totalis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing them to stop producing hair. The exact cause is unknown, but several contributing factors are thought to play a role:

1. Autoimmune response
   The body’s immune system targets the scalp’s hair follicles, leading to complete scalp hair loss.
2. Genetics
   There is often a family history of autoimmune conditions or alopecia areata.
3. Stress or illness
   Emotional stress or physical illness can trigger or accelerate progression, but they are not direct causes.
4. Other autoimmune conditions
   It’s more likely in individuals with thyroid disorders, vitiligo, or other immune-related health issues.

Alopecia totalis may come on gradually or progress quickly from patchy loss. In some cases, hair regrowth is possible, but results can vary.

< a href="/mark/alopecia-universalis-3">Alopecia universalis is the most advanced form of autoimmune hair loss, where all hair is lost across the entire body — including the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. It’s considered a rare progression of alopecia areata.

What causes it?

Alopecia universalis occurs when the immune system attacks all hair follicles, not just those on the scalp. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

1. Autoimmune response
   The body mistakenly sees hair follicles as a threat and shuts them down, stopping hair growth entirely.
2. Genetics
   A family history of alopecia areata or other autoimmune conditions increases the likelihood of developing universalis.
3. Other autoimmune conditions
   It often occurs alongside disorders like thyroid disease, vitiligo, or coeliac disease.
4. Stress or illness
   Though not a direct cause, physical or emotional stress may trigger or worsen the condition in genetically predisposed individuals.

Hair regrowth is possible in some cases, but can be unpredictable — and often requires a long-term treatment approach.

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in men. It typically begins with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown and can progress over time to more widespread loss.

What causes it?

MPB is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — a derivative of testosterone.

1. Genetic sensitivity to DHT
   Hair follicles in certain areas (like the temples and crown) become sensitive to DHT, which causes them to shrink, produce finer hair, and eventually stop growing hair altogether.
2. Family history
   The condition is hereditary, meaning it often runs in families on either the mother’s or father’s side.
3. Hormonal changes
   While DHT is present in all men, those with androgen-sensitive follicles are more likely to develop MPB. This sensitivity usually increases with age.
4. Ageing
   Most men will experience some degree of hair thinning as they get older, but MPB can begin as early as the late teens or twenties in those who are genetically predisposed.

While male pattern baldness is a gradual and often permanent condition, there are clinically proven treatments that can slow its progression or stimulate regrowth. Personalised solutions, including DNA-based testing can help you preserve and improve your hair long-term.

Female pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in women. It usually appears as gradual thinning across the crown and top of the scalp, often with a widening parting, rather than full bald patches.

What causes it?

FPB is caused by a combination of genetics, hormonal sensitivity, and sometimes age-related changes in the hair growth cycle.

1. Genetic predisposition
   Women with a family history of hair thinning or pattern baldness are more likely to experience it themselves, especially after hormonal shifts like menopause.
2. Sensitivity to androgens (male hormones)
   Hair follicles become gradually sensitive to hormones like DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which causes them to shrink over time. This leads to finer, shorter hairs — and eventually, reduced density.
3. Hormonal changes
   FPB often becomes more noticeable during times of hormonal change, such as:

• Perimenopause and menopause
• Coming off hormonal contraception
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

1. Ageing
   As we age, hair naturally becomes thinner, but in FPB, this process happens earlier and more noticeably in genetically susceptible individuals.

With the right care — including scalp support, nutritional advice, and tailored treatment options including DNA Trichotests — FPB can often be managed very effectively.

The Fragron TrichoTest™ is a once-in-a-lifetime genetic test that helps identify the underlying causes of hair loss and guides personalised treatment plans. By analysing 48 genetic variations across 13 genes linked to hair growth, inflammation, hormone sensitivity, and nutrient metabolism, it provides insights into how your body responds to different treatments.

The test involves a simple, non-invasive cheek swab and a lifestyle questionnaire. Results are typically available within 5 weeks and include tailored recommendations for topical, oral treatments — helping to reduce trial and error and improve outcomes.

At Hove Hair Clinic, we use the TrichoTest™ to create fully personalised hair restoration plans, ensuring you receive the most effective care based on your unique genetic profile.

The Fagron TrichoTest™ is ideal for anyone experiencing hair loss or thinning, especially if you:

• Want a personalised treatment plan based on your DNA
• Have tried other hair loss treatments with limited results
• Are unsure which products or ingredients are most effective for you
• Want to understand how your body processes key nutrients and medications
• Have a family history of hair loss and want to take early, proactive steps
• Prefer a science-backed approach to managing your hair health

It's suitable for both men and women, and the test only needs to be taken once in your lifetime — as your genetic profile never changes.

Microneedling is a scalp treatment that uses tiny, fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, increasing blood flow and encouraging the production of collagen and growth factors — all of which support healthier, stronger hair growth.

When used on the scalp, microneedling can:

• Strengthen hair follicles
• Improve absorption of topical treatments like minoxidil or serums
• Boost circulation to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the scalp
• Help with conditions like androgenetic alopecia, diffuse thinning, or poor regrowth

At Hove Hair Clinic, we use medical-grade devices and tailor the depth and frequency of treatments to suit your scalp and hair needs. It's a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime — and often forms part of a broader hair restoration plan.

Our Hair and Scalp Treatment is a specialist in-clinic service designed to cleanse, calm, and rebalance the scalp, while supporting healthier hair growth.

Using professional-grade products and gentle techniques, the treatment includes:

• Deep scalp cleansing to remove build-up, dead skin cells, and excess oil
• Targeted exfoliation to improve circulation and unclog follicles
• Hydration and nourishment to soothe irritation and restore balance
• Stimulation techniques to support healthy hair growth

This treatment is ideal for anyone experiencing:

• Scalp irritation (itching, flaking, redness or dryness)
• Build-up from styling products or poor scalp circulation
• Excess oiliness or blocked follicles
• Hair thinning or early signs of hair loss
• Conditions like dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, or mild psoriasis

It’s also a great option if you simply want to refresh and detox your scalp and support long-term hair health. Many clients choose this as a regular maintenance treatment alongside their home care plan.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle, therapeutic light to stimulate hair follicles and support regrowth. It’s painless, safe, and backed by clinical studies.

LLLT is especially good for:

• Early to moderate hair thinning
• Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hai loss)
• Slowing down hair loss and strengthening existing hair
• Boosting the effects of other treatments like minoxidil or microneedling
• Improving scalp circulation and cellular energy in the follicles

It works by increasing blood flow and encouraging oxygen and nutrient delivery to the scalp, helping hair stay in the growth phase for longer.

At Hove Hair Clinic, we offer FDA-cleared laser devices for home treatment.

K18 Repair Treatment is a professional-grade molecular repair mask that works to reverse hair damage from within — not just on the surface.

Unlike traditional conditioners or masks, K18 uses biomimetic peptide technology to reconnect broken keratin chains inside the hair shaft, restoring strength, softness, and elasticity in just a few uses.

Who is it good for?

K18 is ideal for anyone with damaged, dry, or over-processed hair, including those who have:

• Bleached or colour-treated hair
• Heat damage from styling tools
• Chemical treatments (perms, relaxers, straightening)
• Fragile, weakened hair prone to breakage
• Frizz or rough texture due to structural damage

At Hove Hair Clinic, we offer K18 as an in-clinic treatment or recommend it as part of a home care routine for clients looking to restore hair quality alongside scalp or hair loss treatments.

A derma roller is a handheld tool covered in tiny, fine needles that’s used to gently puncture the surface of the skin, creating microchannels. When rolled over the scalp, it stimulates blood flow, encourages collagen production, and helps topical treatments absorb more effectively into the follicles.

Who is it good for?

Derma rolling is ideal for clients experiencing:

• Thinning hair or early-stage hair loss
• Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss)
• Slow or weak regrowth after shedding
• Poor scalp circulation
• Clients using topical products like minoxidil or DNA-based prescriptions and looking to enhance their effect

At Hove Hair Clinic, we recommend derma rollers as part of a guided home care routine, or offer in-clinic microneedling sessions for deeper, more targeted results.

A hair and scalp detox is a deep-cleansing treatment designed to remove product build-up, excess oil, dead skin cells, and environmental residue from the scalp — creating a healthier foundation for hair growth.

It helps to reset the scalp environment, improving circulation, restoring balance, and making it easier for follicles to function properly.

Who is it good for?

A scalp detox is ideal for anyone who:

• Feels like their scalp is oily, itchy, flaky, or congested
• Uses dry shampoo, styling products, or heavy conditioners regularly
• Is experiencing blocked follicles or slower hair growth
• Has a dull, flat, or lifeless look to their hair
• Is starting a new hair loss or scalp treatment and wants a clean slate

At Hove Hair Clinic, we offer detox treatments tailored to your scalp’s needs — whether it’s flaking, oiliness, or inflammation — to restore clarity, comfort, and long-term scalp health.

Our Volume and Strength Treatment is designed to boost hair thickness, strength, and resilience — ideal for hair that feels fine, flat, weak, or prone to breakage.

This in-clinic treatment uses targeted products and techniques to:

• Reinforce the hair shaft
• Improve elasticity and reduce breakage
• Add natural volume and body
• Protect against styling and environmental stress

Who is it good for?

This treatment is perfect for anyone who:

• Has fine, limp, or thinning hair
• Notices hair breakage or weak strands
• Wants to improve density or texture
• Is recovering from hair loss, illness, or stress-related shedding
• Wants to support stronger regrowth during a hair restoration programme

At Hove Hair Clinic, we tailor each treatment to your hair type and needs, whether you're preparing for a special event or looking to rebuild hair strength over time.