Hair Gel Caused Irritation Leading to Scabs That I Picked Off

Hello, I am in desperate need of advice about my hairline’s growth. From 7th to 9th grade I would wear hair gel. The chemicals in the gel had formed dandruff that irritated and dried my scalp. I would excessively scratch my head because of the itching. Especially around my hairline. Tiny scabs would form and I would pick them off with my nails because they would itch too. Hair stopped growing on those little areas of my hairline where the scabs were. Now it looks like I have a receding hairline. It has affected my confidence and left me full of regret. I think I permanently damaged the hair follicles on my hairline, because instead of thick hair tiny baby hairs grow out instead. These baby hairs seem like they do not grow. I am seventeen years old now, and I limit my use of gel to avoid itchy dandruff. It has been about a year and a half since I stopped scratching so compulsively. I hope you understand my perception of this depressing situation. Have I permanently damaged the hair follicles on my hairline? Will I ever have any growth, or is their something I can do about it? Please give me your insight and knowledge of what I can do.

You need to be evaluated by a good dermatologist. Sometimes gels can produce allergies, which may cause itching. Continuous scratching of the hair will produce traction alopecia and if you scratch it often in the same place, the hair loss can become permanent. I couldn’t tell you if you’ve developed permanent damage, though.