Child TV star Countess Vaughn says lacefront wigs caused severe health problems

By Tenisha Mercer
www.HairNista.Blogspot.com

Child star Countess Vaughn says she has found the source of her major health crises -- her lacefront wig.

The former "Moesha", "The Parkers" and "227" show told The Doctors TV show yesterday that her 5-year affair with lacefront wigs (the star was introduced to them by her stylist in 2004) have cost her her health. Vaughn said the wigs, which she wore 24/7, caused her to have severe scalp infections and hair loss.

It got so bad that Vaughn's scalp was oozing, but she didn't pinpoint that wigs and, more specifically, an allergic reaction to the glue that is used to secure lacefronts, was the source of the problem, despite seeing a dermatologist.

The dangers
Now the 35-year-old star is forced to fill in her sparse hairline with eyeliner, and her skin is discolored to the point that it looks as if she has vitiligo -- a skin condition that causes severe discoloration.


Vaughn fought back tears on the show as she urged lacefront wearers to be cautious.


“I had to go through this to teach my little one that you have to love yourself before anyone else will," she said.

Avoiding scalp infections

I noticed that Vaughn is wearing what appears to be a weave or a wig. I can't help but wonder if she truly "loves" herself, especially with her health challenges. What better reason to wear her natural hair?
 
This isn't the first time there have been issues with lacefronts. Supermodel Naomi Campbell's edges are nearly non-existent, after years of wearing weaves/wigs. And there have been reports of fatal reactions to hair glue, with a 34-year-old woman dying from a severe allergic reaction after her weave install.

So many naturals wear lacefront wigs that these tips bear repeating:

• Let your scalp breathe. Lacefronts, or any wig, should not be worn 24/7. 
• Oozing puss is a sign of infection. See a dermatologist or get medical attention IMMEDIATELY!
• If your scalp/hairline is irritated,  red, itchy or breaks out, the glue could be the problem. Stop wearing lacefronts IMMEDIATELY until you know the source of irritation and seek medical help.