Boy Diagnosed with Uncombable Hair Syndrome Still Looking for Cure; Will Biotin Supplements Get Him Treated?

In December 2021, Science Times reported a mother named Katelyn Samples who revealed how her one-year-old son, Locklan, was diagnosed with a rare condition known as "uncombable hair syndrome."

Now, the boy is again all over the news and social media platforms as his mother campaigns to spread awareness and positivity amidst his condition.

As a New York Post report said, Katelyn said, "Hearing your son has a genetic condition is not easy," especially since it is so rare that there is not much information on it, although as she learned as much as she could, she connected with other parents worldwide via a UHS Facebook group, she turned less scared and more appreciative of how unique her son Locklan is.

Since Locklan was diagnosed with uncombable hair syndrome, Samples started sharing her son's journey on social media, where she has been able to spread awareness and connect with others living with the same condition.

Sharing Locklan's Story on Instagram

Locklan's parents first turned to Instagram not just to share his smiling photos but also to be a resource for those who have uncombable hair syndrome.

In a report from the Independent news outlet via the MSN, Katelyn said, they felt like sharing the boy's story and being a resource for other parents that might find themselves in a similar boat that they were in.

In a matter of weeks, the Instagram page @uncombable_locks of Locklan has grown to 17,000 from 3,000 followers.

Unsurprisingly, the unique follicles of Locklan have made him a "little celebrity" with strangers coming near the family anywhere they go, the Samples said.

The boy's parents also said people ask about their son's hair and sometimes ask to touch it. They added they really could not go anywhere without at least one person commenting on his hair. It is nearly always from a good place, they continued.

Harsh Comments

Not all comments about Locklan's condition are positive, though. Katelyn shared some mean, rude or sarcastic remarks too, and it's breaking her heart. She added some haters have called her son's hair "crazy" or commented, Locklan looks like he "stuck his finger in a socket."

Other people have analogized the boy' to a baby chick and a dandelion. On the other hand, others have even cruelly criticized saying the child was waking up every day "with bad hair." For now, lamented Katelyn, "my husband and I are the only ones" to have to address the negativities as Lockland gets older "he will, too."

Uncombable Hair Syndrome

MedlinePlus describes uncombable hair syndrome as a rare condition characterized by "dry, frizzy hair" that cannot be combed flat. This syndrome frequently develops between infancy and age three during childhood, although it can occur as late as age 12.

Children who have the condition have light-colored hair, described as blond or silvery with a shining gloss or polish. The hair is not growing downward but out from the scalp in numerous directions.

Despite its physical form, look, or appearance, the hair is not brittle or fragile. It also grows at a normal or a little slower rate. The only part of the head affected by this condition is the scalp hair.

For unknown reasons, uncombable hair syndrome typically improves over time. When a child with this condition becomes, an adolescent has hair lying flat and has a normal or almost normal texture.

Is the Condition Treatable?

While there is not much information about the uncombable hair syndrome is available, especially when it comes to treatment, a HealthPrep report said biotin supplements had shown promise in treating the condition.

One case study showed a four-month course of the said supplements increased hair strength and the hair growth rate for a patient with the condition.

Specifically, the case report specified the hair was also easier to comb after using the supplements. Biotin was known as vitamin H, and it is at times referred to as Vitamin B7.

Despite the efficacy, parents considering using biotin supplements for a child with uncombable hair syndrome should always consult a doctor for safe dosage. The healthcare provider may wish to observe and monitor the child while taking the supplement.

Related report about Locklan Samples is shown on Inside Edition's YouTube video below:

Check out more news and information on Rare Occurrences in Science Times.