“Mold in hair” refers to a fungal overgrowth or infection on the scalp and hair, distinct from the mold found on food or damp surfaces. While true mold is rarely found on human hair, various fungi, particularly dermatophytes and yeasts, can infect the scalp and hair shafts.
How Mold Appears on Hair
Fungal infections on the hair and scalp, medically known as tinea capitis or scalp ringworm, can present with distinct visual characteristics. Affected areas often show scaly, inflamed patches that may appear red or purple, or greyish in individuals with darker skin tones. Hair within these patches can become brittle, breaking off at or near the scalp, leading to circular bald spots. These bald patches might have small black dots, which are the remnants of broken hair shafts.
The texture of the affected scalp can range from dry and flaky, resembling severe dandruff, to thicker, greasier scales that cling to the skin. In some cases, the scalp may show pus-filled sores or crusty areas, particularly in more severe inflammatory infections known as kerions.
Factors Contributing to Mold Growth
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making the scalp and hair susceptible to overgrowth under certain conditions. Prolonged dampness plays a significant role; not thoroughly drying hair after washing, or wearing hats or other head coverings on wet hair, can create an ideal breeding ground for fungi. The moisture trapped in hair, especially in buns, ponytails, or locs, can lead to fungal development.
Poor scalp hygiene also contributes by allowing sweat, natural oils (sebum), and product buildup to accumulate, which provides a rich environment for fungal proliferation. Excessive sweating can further exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated objects like combs, brushes, and towels can spread these contagious fungi.
Recognizing Other Signs
Beyond visual changes, fungal infections on the scalp often manifest through other noticeable symptoms. A persistent, unpleasant odor is a common sign, which some describe as musty, earthy, sour, or even resembling yeast or sour dairy. This odor can result from an overgrowth of fungi, like Malassezia, that naturally reside on the scalp, especially when they break down oils.
Intense itching of the scalp is another frequent symptom, often severe enough to disrupt daily activities and sleep. This itching can be accompanied by redness and inflammation of the scalp. The affected skin may also feel painful or tender to the touch, and in some instances, there can be flaking or scaling that differs from typical dandruff, often appearing as white or yellowish buildup.
Addressing and Preventing Hair Mold
If a fungal infection of the scalp is suspected, seeking professional medical consultation, such as from a dermatologist, is important for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Oral antifungal medications are often prescribed, and medicated shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide may also be recommended to help manage symptoms and prevent spread. Self-diagnosis and over-the-counter treatments alone are often insufficient to resolve the problem completely.
Prevention focuses on maintaining a clean and dry scalp environment. Thoroughly drying hair after washing, especially for those with thick hair or who sweat excessively, is an important step. Avoiding prolonged periods with wet hair, such as going to bed with damp hair or wearing tight head coverings, can significantly reduce the risk. Regularly cleaning hair brushes, combs, and other styling tools, and avoiding sharing personal items like towels, hats, and pillows, helps prevent the spread of fungi.