Fungal Hair Treatment

Fungal hair infections are most common in children and first appear as scaly skin on the scalp, dandruff, or pimples that actually are abscessed hair follicles. You can transmit hair fungus to others by using brushes and combs belonging to the infected person. Treatment to kill the fungus is very important to avoid permanent hair loss.

Treatment for Hair Fungus

• Several over-the-counter medications are available for fungal hair treatment, but you should consult your doctor or dermatologist to determine if the condition requires a prescription medication.

  In adults, the prescription drug may lower the efficiency of birth control pills. This needs to be discussed before beginning the medication. Using an anti-fungal shampoo, available at most drugstores, will help reduce the spread of the condition to others. Inspect the scalp monthly to ensure the condition is not flaring up, as it can remain dormant for a period of time.

Shampooing

• Shampoo the hair with an anti-fungal shampoo such as Head and Shoulders, lathering the hair and leaving the shampoo on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing. Use the anti-fungal shampoo two times a week for 30 days, then once a month to keep the condition from returning. On the days you do not use anti-fungal shampoo, you can use your regular shampoo.

  Do not use hair tonic or oil on the scalp, as this will increase the risk of spreading the fungus.

Spreading the Fungus

• Hair fungus is contagious but with proper treatment can be contained and cleared up. Children are particularly susceptible to spreading this condition when they come into close contact with schoolmates or siblings through play, sports, and sharing hair products. Once treatment has started with proper medications and shampooing, your child should be safe from spreading the condition.

  If siblings have an itchy or red scalp, examine closely. You can begin using the anti-fungal shampoo, but consult your physician to determine if the same medication should be prescribed.

Seek Medical Attention

• It the condition appears to be spreading or the scalp becomes inflamed during the course of treatment, contact your physician or dermatologist, as there may be an allergic reaction to the medication being taken.