Hair Loss and Cystic Acne

There are actually a number of different forms of acne, all with varying degrees of severity.  Perhaps the most aggressive and difficult to treat is cystic acne.  Cystic acne differs greatly from ‘normal’ spots and pimples.  The cysts are generally quite large and often extremely painful.  The condition can last for several months before clearing up and is also very prone to recurrence.

Cystic acne can often also be a warning sign for a genetic predisposition to abnormal hair loss.  Although not generally thought of together, the two conditions share a number of symptoms.

Cystic acne, and indeed less serious blackheads and whiteheads, as well as normal hair growth, all depend on the condition of the hair follicles on various parts of the body.

Cystic acne and hair loss are also both connected with excess sebum production in the skin.  This is known as seborrhoea when it occurs on the scalp.

Additionally, both cystic acne and hair loss can occur as a result of a hormonal imbalance within the body.  As a result of this, severe, unresponsive cystic acne can often be a symptom of hair loss in the future.

Although the two conditions have various physical elements in common, they generally need to be treated individually.  Acne is more a sign of future hair loss than a trigger or side effect.

Hair loss is not restricted to elderly people and is being seen more and more in those in their twenties and thirties.  If you find you lose a lot of hair through normal washing or brushing you should see your doctor to ensure there is no greater, more serious medical condition you may be at risk of.