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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Bad Hair Odour With White Ball Like Matter On Scalp?

Hello... I notice when i start to rub my hair really fast it starts to stink.. and i shower a lot and take care of my self and when i start to pick some stuff on the top of my scalp little white balls fall out... i also have noticed that my dads hair also smells exactly like mine when his is wet... maybe its genetically passed down? But can you please explain. Thank you...
Sat, 3 Sep 2016
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Dermatologist,  's  Response
Hi . Welcome to HCM
From your description you seem to have severe dandruff due to increased oily scalp, which gets easily infected by fungus. Sweat and oil can give rise to the bad odour.
Few points to note - do not apply oil, gels, styling products on your scalp as it is already oily.
Wash your hair regularly. Use a shampoo such as arcolane or Ketoz for dandruff on alternate days till the problem reduces and then continue at least once a week. Do not oil after.
You may see similar complaints, pimples or rashes on other oily areas such as face , chest, upper back.
It can be genetic as its a condition of your skin.
Other options to think of maybe scalp psoriasis etc, IF it is not releived by the dandruff medication.
Do see a dermatologist if you see no change after a month.
Hope this helps.
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What Causes Bad Hair Odour With White Ball Like Matter On Scalp?

Hi . Welcome to HCM From your description you seem to have severe dandruff due to increased oily scalp, which gets easily infected by fungus. Sweat and oil can give rise to the bad odour. Few points to note - do not apply oil, gels, styling products on your scalp as it is already oily. Wash your hair regularly. Use a shampoo such as arcolane or Ketoz for dandruff on alternate days till the problem reduces and then continue at least once a week. Do not oil after. You may see similar complaints, pimples or rashes on other oily areas such as face , chest, upper back. It can be genetic as its a condition of your skin. Other options to think of maybe scalp psoriasis etc, IF it is not releived by the dandruff medication. Do see a dermatologist if you see no change after a month. Hope this helps.