Scalp Calcification – Does it Cause Hair Loss?

In this article you’re going to learn about scalp calcification and the negative effects which calcium build up can have on the scalp. I’ll explain the causes of scalp calcification, as well as introduce you to a variety of ways to combat this hair-loss causing phenomena.

This article is important to read if you suffer from male pattern baldness as calcification plays a subtle but very interesting role.

What is Scalp Calcification?

As you may already know, various substances build up on the scalp. These include dead skin, oil, hair products, and even DHT. In addition to the previously mentioned, however, calcium can also build up on the scalp. This is known as scalp calcification.

The build-up of any substance on your scalp isn’t good, no matter how beneficial it may be in small doses. This is because the follicles can become blocked, and this can negatively impact healthy hair growth.

What Causes Scalp Calcification?

The two main culprits of scalp calcification are hard water and calcium deposits.

Hard Water

In general terms, hard water is any water obtained from an underground source. And, while the majority of homes receive their water in such a way, this does not necessarily mean you are being exposed to hard water in your own home.

There are various processes of water collection and distribution that different regions use. This may mean that your area has particularly hard water, or you may have soft (or at least softer) water.

And in the UK…

Now, onto calcification.

When you shower using hard water, a reaction occurs between the water and your shampoo. This reaction creates a substance known as soap scum, and it clings to your skin, hair, and scalp. This will build up over time, leading to an increase in calcium levels found on your scalp.

Calcium Deposits

Calcium is a hardening mineral. It is found primarily in our bones and teeth and is necessary for the health of both structures. Calcium can also be found in the bloodstream and muscles, but too much of it (known as hypercalcemia) can lead to calcium deposits and buildup in places (like the scalp) where it can cause harm.

This was seen in a study performed on hypercalcemic rats. The rats were subjected to mild injuries to the skin. After only three hours, increased levels of calcium were found within the follicles of injured skin.

Excess calcium in the bloodstream is worsened when inflammation is involved.

Inflammation is a natural body response to injury or irritation. However, chronic inflammation can lead to the collection of calcium deposits in said inflamed tissues.

This leads to the hardening of the inflamed tissues, which leads to further inflammation. This cycle continues until healthy blood flow to the scalp is completely constricted, resulting in hair loss and the eventual death of the hair follicles.

What You Can Do About Scalp Calcification

After you have determined the cause of your scalp calcification, you can better address the issue.

Scalp Calcification Caused by Hard Water

There are three ways of combating calcification due to hard water.

First, you can target hard water at the source and soften your home’s water with a water-softening filtration system. This can be costly and installation is not always easy. There are, however, shower-only filters that can be fitted to the fixture and will filter water as you shower.

Second, you can counter soap scum buildup and calcification by utilizing calcium-fighting remedies. This includes the use of a white vinegar and water mixture to soften hair and rinse away calcium build-up following shampooing. Additionally, you can rinse your hair with lemon-infused water.

Third, you can create your own shampoo using apple cider vinegar as a base ingredient.

Scalp Calcification Caused by Calcium Deposits

While the last two methods mentioned above can help you combat calcium deposits on the scalp, there is a better way to target the issue at its source.

Magnesium is a natural combatant of calcium. It helps to slow calcium production and build-up and has even been shown to completely stop the production of calcium build-up on blood vessel walls. Additionally, magnesium supplementation can lead to the reversal of vessel wall calcification.

For best results, you can apply magnesium oil directly to the scalp. For adults, one fluid ounce massaged into the scalp for 10 minutes, three to five times per week seems to be most beneficial.

However, it is possible to accelerate results by applying the oil to your scalp daily. You can also use a dermaroller to stimulate hair growth even more.

You may also want to try a magnesium supplement, such as magnesium orotate, to counteract calcium deposits from the inside out. In addition, try to eat more foods that are high in magnesium such as hazelnuts and almonds

Conclusion

The build-up of calcium on your scalp – whether caused by external (hard water) factors or internal (hypercalcemia) factors – can lead to hair weakness, thinning, and loss. In the long run, it can even cause the death of the hair follicles.

Fortunately, there are many methods you can use to combat the issue, and you can even reverse the effects of scalp calcification when you catch it early enough.