Hair Misconceptions: Wet Hair and Fungal Infection

Pathogens and microorganisms can reside on your scalp and make your life a nightmare. These microorganisms that live in the hair and scalp do not grow overnight. One of the common misconceptions about hair is that sleeping with wet hair will cause fungal infections. Sleeping with wet hair does not cause fungal infections or parasites to reproduce in the hair and scalp. Infections and parasites can be transmitted through human or animal contact; and sharing hair care tools such as combs and brushes with a person already affected by a fungal or parasitic infection.

Lice, for example, can be passed from one host to another by sharing combs, tweezers, towels, pillows, and anything else that comes in contact with an infected person’s head and hair. If you feel itchy, don’t immediately assume you have lice, as the itching can be caused by other factors such as dander.

Until you feel something crawling on your head or see lice landing on your shirt, you won’t be able to tell the difference. You need to have your scalp and hair examined to determine the root of the itch. Lice, fungal infection, and dry scalp are the common causes of itchiness. Wash your hair regularly to remove dirt from the scalp and keep it healthy. Dirt and debris buildup can prevent healthy hair growth, leaving you with dry, dull hair.

Wet hair does not cause fungal infection. If you keep your scalp clean all the time, you won’t have to worry about getting this condition. The itch from the yeast infection can be so intense that you may not be able to fight the urge to scratch your scalp. Scratching can cause further damage to your hair and scalp. If you have a fungal infection, be sure to treat your condition right away to avoid other complications and problems, such as hair loss.