HAIR LOSS – WHAT IS NORMAL AND WHAT NEEDS TREATMENT

Everyone loses hair. It is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hair every day. If you see bald patches or a lot of thinning, you may be experiencing hair loss.

There are many causes of hair loss. Women may notice hair loss after giving birth. People under a lot of stress can see noticeable hair loss. Some diseases and medical treatments can cause hair loss.

The most common cause of hair loss is a medical condition called androgenetic alopecia. This type of hair loss can affect both men and women. Other terms for androgenetic alopecia include:

• Male pattern baldness
• Female pattern hair loss

For many people, losing their hair is a frustrating experience. Fortunately, treatments are available that can help to increase hair density and prevent further hair loss.

CAUSES OF HAIR LOSS:

The hair follicle is a structure that encases the lower part of the hair shaft. Each follicle contains blood vessels that nurture new hair growth. All hair follicles are present at birth. Throughout their lifetime, each follicle grows and sheds a single hair in a repetitive cycle. The hair cycle has the following phases

• The growth phase for a single new hair which lasts two to three years.
• At the end of this time, growth ceases and the follicle enters a resting phase.
• After three to four months in the resting phase, the follicle enters the shedding phase, when the hair is shed and the next growth cycle begins.

On a normal scalp, approximately 80 to 90 percent of follicles are growing at any given point of time. Each day, about 75 to 100 follicles shed their hair, while the same number enters a new growth phase. This is the reason why you notice hair fall while combing your hair or after taking a head bath. This continuous hair cycle is the reason why in spite of shedding multiple hairs in a day, you do not go completely bald.

In men with androgenetic alopecia, hormones related to testosterone (also called androgens) cause hair follicles to have a shorter-than-normal growth phase, resulting in hair shafts that are abnormally short and thin. These follicles are known as “miniaturized” hair follicles. The reasons why some men develop androgenetic alopecia and others do not are not fully understood. It is generally accepted that genetic background strongly influences the development of androgenetic alopecia in men, but the exact way in which family history affects a man’s chance of developing hair loss has not been determined.

Genetics also appears to play a role in the risk for androgenetic alopecia in women, although other unknown factors may also be important. As an example, abnormal levels of androgens in the blood are the cause of androgenetic alopecia in a minority of women.

SYMPTOMS OF HAIR LOSS

Men and women experience androgenetic alopecia with equal frequency, although it may be camouflaged well in women. In men, androgenetic alopecia is characterized by gradual hair thinning that most often affects the crown and frontal areas of the scalp. In many men, the hairline around the temples regresses. As it moves back to the mid-scalp, an M-shaped hair pattern develops. The hair in areas affected by hair loss may be of various lengths and thickness, and the presence of uneven lengths and texture is a classic sign of male pattern baldness.

Women may have similar patterns of hair loss, although typically the hair loss is a little more diffuse when compared to men. Women rarely experience loss of all their hair.

Other scenario where there is an increase in generalized hair loss is after having a fever, or after pregnancy, or induced by certain medications. A general guideline is to keep an eye on the number of hairs you lose in a day. If you notice that you are losing more than a hundred hairs per day, then you ought to consult your Dermatologist.

HAIR LOSS DIAGNOSIS:

Androgenetic alopecia can usually be diagnosed by examining the scalp. In some cases, you will need blood tests to look for other causes of hair loss, like changes in hormone levels, low iron levels (anemia), or thyroid problems.

Your doctor may prescribe certain medication in cream form to reduce the growth of facial hair. Your facial hair growth should slow after one to two months.

PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACT OF HAIR LOSS

The psychosocial impact of hair loss can be severe for some people, especially women, since there is little understanding or acceptance of the condition. Both women and men may have difficulty with issues of low self-esteem or feeling unattractive.

If you are having difficulty with the psychosocial impact of losing your hair, speak to your doctor about your feelings. Doctors can offer support and may recommend that that the patient meets a therapist or a clinical psychologist, and can also provide tips on cosmetic coverings.

HAIR LOSS TREATMENT

Treatment for hair loss is dependent on the cause of the hair loss. Both medical and surgical options are available and is dependent on the type of hair loss.

WHERE TO GET MORE INFORMATION

Please consult a doctor before starting any treatment. You must inform the doctor regarding any prior history of treatment for other conditions or any plans of conceiving. Your doctor is your best source for accurate information. Your type of hair loss can be easily determined by your treating Dermatologist with a simple clinical examination and the subsequent treatment may be tailored to suit you.

FAQs About Lose Hair

1. Is it common to lose hair every day?

Losing between 50-100 hair daily is expected as part of the hair growth cycle. Hair shedding is a natural process, and most people experience it without any cause for concern. This daily hair loss is usually unnoticeable and does not impact overall hair density.

2. When does hair loss become a cause for concern?

Hair loss becomes concerning when there is a noticeable increase in shedding, thinning of the hair, or bald patches developing. If these symptoms persist or worsen over time, it is advisable to seek expert advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Sudden or excessive hair loss can indicate an underlying issue that needs medical attention.

3. What are the general causes of hair loss?

Hair loss can be caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions (such as alopecia areata, thyroid disorders), medications, or excessive hairstyling practices. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment.

4. Can hair loss be reversed or treated?

The effectiveness of treatment depends on the underlying cause of hair loss. For some conditions, such as pattern baldness, treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) or finasteride (Propecia) may help slow down hair loss or promote regrowth. Other treatments, such as scalp micropigmentation or hair transplant surgery, may be options for certain individuals. Consulting with a dermatologist can help determine the best treatment plan.

5. Are there any preventive measures to be considered to eliminate the risk of hair loss?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress levels, avoiding harsh hair treatments, and ensuring a balanced diet with adequate nutrients can help promote overall scalp health and reduce the risk of hair loss. Regular scalp massages and using gentle hair care products can also support hair follicle health. Protecting your hair from excessive heat and chemical treatments can prevent damage that leads to hair loss.

6. How can stress contribute to hair loss, and what can be done to manage it?

Stress can trigger hair loss conditions such as telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase. Managing stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, exercise, and adequate sleep can help reduce its impact on hair health. Seeking professional help for stress management can also be beneficial.

7. What role do genetics play in hair loss?

Genetics play a significant role in conditions like male and female pattern baldness, where hair loss follows a predictable pattern based on family history. Understanding your genetic predisposition can help you take preventive measures early and seek appropriate treatments.

8. Are there specific dietary changes that can help prevent hair loss?

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E supports healthy hair growth. Including foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and fish can provide the essential nutrients needed for strong and healthy hair. Staying hydrated is also crucial for maintaining scalp health.

9. How can Cutis Hospital help with hair loss concerns?

Cutis Hospital offers comprehensive hair loss treatments and personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. Our experienced dermatologists can diagnose the underlying causes of hair loss and recommend effective treatments, including medication, topical solutions, and advanced procedures like hair transplantation.For expert guidance and personalized care in managing hair loss, visit Cutis Hospital, where skilled dermatologists provide comprehensive solutions to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant hair.