Most people think hair loss is exclusively caused by heredity, an unhealthy diet, poor lifestyle, or a combination of those factors. Not many people realize, however, that mold can also cause hair loss. Yes, it is surprising, but true. People typically associate mold with spoiled food, but mold can also inhabit damp, musty places and even parts of the body that accumulate moisture, but do not allow it to breathe, or dry out (Athlete’s foot, for example, is caused by a type of fungus or mold!). It’s no wonder then that hair loss could also be caused, unknowingly, by mold infection!
What Kind Of Mold Causes Hair To Fall Out?
The most common strain of molds that can contribute to hair loss is called ‘black molds’, due to its odd coloration. These molds, which include Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus, are extremely toxic and can cause uncontrollable shedding. Aside from hair loss, if left untreated, they can even cause recurring migraines, severe lung infections, and even cancer!
How Does Mold Cause Hair Loss?
Mold is a well-known allergen, and the mold that tends to spread in the scalp area and hair-shaft causes an unexpected allergic reaction, which results in heavy shedding (hair fall), and a weakening of the hair shaft and roots, resulting in hair loss.
How To Identify Mold That Causes Hair To Fall Out?
While there is no way to visually identify mold that is directly on your scalp, objects that display signs of black mold, whether it be articles of clothing, bedding, or select locations in the home or workplace, should be singled out as potential ‘sources’ for hair loss-inducing mold. Once infected, you may experience mild to moderate itchiness, a slight reddening of the skin, and an off, musty scent coupled with the excessive production of sebum, which are natural oils produced by the scalp to protect the hair.
This will then result in build-up, which will appear as dandruff flakes, but with a musty odor.
What Is The Treatment For Mold-related Hair Loss?
Anti-fungal creams and shampoos like Nizoral are often the ‘first line’ of conventional topical, over-the-counter treatments. If you’re looking for more natural solutions, consider investing in tea tree oil, lavender oil, virgin coconut oil, or essential oil of thyme (diluted in a carrier oil like coconut oil) – all of which possess potent anti-fungal properties.
Putting pure henna powder (the pulverized leaves of the Lawsonia enermis plant) onto your hair and scalp also helps, which has the added bonus of providing a free hair dye in the process.
Will My Hair Grow Back?
Yes, definitely, your hair will grow back. If the problem is addressed immediately, and the proper treatment is applied with a strict and unyielding regimen, your hair and scalp will eventually recover and resume its normal function and growth cycles. The natural treatments, if maintained long after the infection has been treated, will likewise help to promote healthy hair growth, and ensure that natural hair loss caused by heredity is abated, or at least significantly slowed-down.
