Hair and scalp disorders in ethnic populations.

Treating scalp and hair disorders is challenging because of the emotional nature of hair loss and because of unknown pathogenesis. Treating African American patients can add an extra layer of complexity to this treatment if the dermatologist is not familiar with hair care practices. Only the dermatologist who strives to understand hair care practices, the common disease entities of the hair and scalp in African Americans, and the disturbance in quality of life from alopecia will effectively approach treatment in these patients.