Shedding light: All about hair loss and what we can do about it
Hair has always been a symbol of beauty, health, and vitality. It’s no wonder that losing it, whether due to genetics, age, or medical conditions, can be a deeply distressing experience for both men and women. While it can be traumatic, there are steps you can take to help your stressed tresses.
Understanding the causes
The first step in treating hair loss is understanding the root causes. Hair loss is often triggered by a multitude of factors. It is important to note that sometimes hair loss is entirely natural and just part of the hair growth cycle. However, when hair loss feels excessive or like you just can’t catch a break, it’s time to investigate further.
Common causes include:
Genetics: A significant factor in hair loss is genetics. If your parents or grandparents experience hair thinning or baldness, you might be genetically predisposed to it as well.
Hormones: Fluctuations in hormone levels, often due to conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) or thyroid disorders, can lead to hair loss.
Age: As we age, our hair naturally becomes thinner and more brittle. This process is especially noticeable in men as they experience male pattern baldness.
Stress and lifestyle: High-stress levels, poor nutrition, and harsh hair treatments can also contribute to hair loss.
Hair loss can have a profound emotional impact on an individual. It can lead to a loss of self-esteem or self-confidence and affect someone’s overall quality of life. However, it’s important to remember that hair loss is a common issue, and there are plenty of treatment options available to help solve the problem.
Options for Addressing Hair Loss
After the cause of hair loss is pinpointed through a detailed medical assessment and health history overview, a treatment plan can be created to stop the hair loss and regrow as much hair as possible.
Treatments include:
PRP for hair regeneration: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that has gained popularity for its remarkable ability to promote hair growth. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of your blood and then the blood is processed to separate the PRP from other components. The PRP, which is rich in growth factors, is then injected into the scalp, specifically targeting areas with thinning or receding hair. The growth factors in PRP stimulate the dormant hair follicles, encouraging them to enter the active growth phase. This results in thicker, healthier hair.
Stress management: High-stress levels, emotional trauma, and anxiety can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the resting phase and falls out. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and exercise can help reduce hair loss associated with stress.
Supplements: Supplements like biotin, zinc, and iron for hair loss are commonly used to support and promote hair growth, especially when the underlying cause may be related to nutritional deficiencies or specific health conditions. While supplements can be helpful, it is important to use them wisely and consult a healthcare professional before starting a supplement regimen.
If you want to get to the root of your hair loss, come in to see me for an initial consultation at my Virginia-Highland aesthetics boutique. We will go through your medical history and come up with a plan to regrow as much of your hair as possible. We can discuss medications, in-office procedures, and supplements. Click here to book a consult!