Uncombable Hair Syndrome (UHS) is a rare genetic condition that affects the hair shaft, resulting in dry, frizzy hair that stands up and cannot be combed down.
• UHS can be misdiagnosed as alopecia areata, but is usually diagnosed with a physical exam and microscopic examination of the hair
• UHS usually presents itself around the age of three and resolves by puberty, but in some cases, it may persist into adulthood.
• The condition is inherited and caused by a mutation in one of three genes that code for keratin, a protein found in hair and nails.
Have you ever heard of Uncombable Hair Syndrome (UHS)? It is a rare genetic condition that affects hair growth, resulting in hair texture and shape abnormalities. People with UHS typically have hair that is dry, and frizzy, and often stands up vertically and can’t be combed down. Understanding the condition and its characteristics can help affected individuals manage their hair problems successfully. Here’s everything you need to know about UHS.
What is UHS?
UHS is a rare genetic condition that affects the hair shaft, the visible part of the hair strand that grows out of the scalp. People with UHS have hair that is usually silver, blonde, or straw-colored, and it is dry, frizzy, and cannot be combed down. The hair has a characteristic sheen, resembling cotton candy or the feathers of a swan. The hair strands are also triangular or heart-shaped instead of round, making them difficult to style.
Diagnosis and Treatment of UHS
UHS is often misdiagnosed as alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss. To diagnose UHS, doctors may perform a physical exam of the hair to look for the characteristic sheen and triangular or heart-shaped strands. They may also take a sample of the hair for microscopic examination and to rule out other possible causes of hair abnormalities.
Causes of UHS
There are various causes of UHS. Here are some of them:
Age
UHS usually presents itself around the age of three to twelve and resolves by the time the child reaches puberty, but in some cases, the condition may persist into adulthood. The condition does not harm one’s health, and people with UHS are healthy, with no adverse effects on their physical or neurological well-being. However, psychological stress may be due to the stigma or self-consciousness associated with the abnormal hair condition.
Genetics
UHS is an inherited condition, which means that it runs in families and affects both sexes equally. The condition results from a mutation in one of three genes that code for keratin, a protein that helps form hair and nails. The mutated gene affects the structure of the hair shaft, leading to the characteristic hair texture and shape of UHS.
Treatments
There is no cure for UHS, and treatments are mainly focused on managing hair symptoms. Here are some of them:
Oil-based Treatment
Certain oils can make a huge difference in dealing with a person’s UHS. One of the best oils for treatment is an Argan oil serum. This is made from the nuts of the Argan tree and is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids that help nourish the hair. It can nourish the scalp and helps make it easier to comb the hair.
Regular Trimming
Trimming the hair regularly can help keep it under control. Regular trims will also help reduce split ends and breakage, which makes styling much easier. It is important to note that people with UHS should not use heated styling tools on their hair since this could further damage the hair strands.
Mild Shampoos
Mild shampoos can also be beneficial for people with UHS. These shampoos are formulated to be gentle on the hair while providing some cleaning action. Look for a mild shampoo that contains natural ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil, and chamomile.
Utilizing Wigs
If all else fails, utilizing wigs can be an effective way to deal with UHS. Wigs are available in various styles and colors, so finding one that looks natural is easy. They provide immediate coverage and can help people feel more confident about their hair.
Uncombable Hair Syndrome is a rare genetic condition affecting hair growth and abnormal hair texture and shape. Understanding the condition’s symptoms and characteristics can help affected individuals manage their hair problems successfully.
Although there is no cure for UHS, people can use various treatments, such as avoiding harsh combing or brushing, using conditioning and moisturizing products, and avoiding heat styling or chemical treatments. While UHS may cause psychological stress due to the stigma associated with abnormal hair texture, affected individuals can live healthy, happy life by properly managing their hair symptoms.
