About Hair Loss

Viswanath Annapureddy
What is Hair Loss ?

Normal hair loss, also known as “Telogen Effluvium“, is a part of the hair growth cycle. It occurs when hair strands enter the resting phase, known as the telogen phase, and eventually fall out to make way for new hair. It’s important to distinguish this from abnormal hair loss, which can be a sign of underlying health issues.

Hair Loss of up to 100 hairs a day is completely natural. Well in all honesty you can’t count your every Hair coming loose, but you should watch in what quantity and when do they fall. Do you wake up and find a lot of your hair on your bed, or while having a bath do you notice hair falling in bunch? Such investigations on hair should be done regularly, and in case any doubt you should contact a Trichologist (A Hair Specialist) for advice.

If you have mild hair loss, you should just relax and improve your diet. You should eat food high in protein like Dal, eggs and meat. Also remember to include vitamins as they ensure smoother hair. And oil and shampoo 3 times in a week for men and 4 times for women.

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Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a condition characterized by the loss of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. Hair loss can occur gradually or suddenly and may be temporary or permanent.

There are various types and causes of hair loss, and some common ones include:

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness):

  • Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing hair loss. It can occur suddenly and result in small, round patches of baldness on the scalp or other parts of the body.
  • Telogen Effluvium: This type of hair loss is often temporary and occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle simultaneously. It can be triggered by factors such as stress, illness, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
  • Traction Alopecia: This is hair loss caused by excessive pulling or tension on the hair shafts, often due to hairstyles that involve tight braids, ponytails, or extensions.
  • Scarring Alopecia: This type of hair loss results in permanent damage to the hair follicles, leading to scarring. Causes include inflammatory skin conditions, certain diseases, or physical trauma.
  • Hormonal Changes and Medical Conditions: Various medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause), can contribute to hair loss.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of certain nutrients, such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins, can lead to hair loss.

The treatment of hair loss depends on the underlying cause. Some conditions may be reversible, while others may require ongoing management. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist to determine the cause of hair loss and explore appropriate treatment options.

Understanding and Managing Hair Loss: A Comprehensive Guide

Hair Loss and scalp problems are very common complaints from many patients to Dermatologists. Hair Loss can be categorized into many sub-sections and they can happen due to genetic conditions, hair pulling, stress, or due to the environment around. Any type of hair loss can cause distress in a person and can also lead to that person looking older than their actual age.

Different Types of Hair Loss
Implantation of Hair Grafts
Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness)

This is the most common type of hair loss and is usually hereditary. It is more common in men, but women can also be affected. It occurs when the hair follicles are genetically sensitive to the effects of hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which leads to the gradual shrinking of hair follicles and shorter, finer hair.

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, is a genetic condition that predominantly affects men. It is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning of hair on the crown of the scalp. This type of hair loss is driven by hormonal factors and can start in the late teens or early adulthood.

Extraction of Hair Grafts
Female Pattern Baldness

Similar to male pattern baldness, female pattern baldness is a genetic form of hair loss affecting women. It typically causes a widening part and thinning of hair, especially on the crown area. Hormonal changes, aging, and genetic predisposition are contributing factors to this condition.

Implantation of Hair Grafts
Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss characterized by a significant shedding of hair due to various factors, such as stress, illness, pregnancy, or certain medications. The hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to excessive hair loss.

Extraction of Hair Grafts
Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in patches. The immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, resulting in smooth, round areas of baldness on the scalp, face, or other parts of the body. This type of hair loss can be unpredictable and may resolve on its own or require treatment.

Implantation of Hair Grafts
Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia occurs when there is excessive tension or pulling on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or extensions. Over time, this constant pulling can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss in the affected areas.

Extraction of Hair Grafts
Cicatricial Alopecia

Cicatricial alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, is a type of hair loss characterized by irreversible damage to the hair follicles, resulting in scar tissue formation. The scarred areas hinder hair regrowth, leading to permanent hair loss. Causes include inflammation, infections, or underlying medical conditions.

Causes of Hair Loss
  • Genetics: A Predisposition to Hair Loss: Genetics play a significant role in hair loss. If your family has a history of hair thinning or baldness, you may be genetically predisposed to experience similar concerns.
  • Hormonal Changes: Shifting the Balance: Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can trigger hair loss. Fluctuations in hormones can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to noticeable shedding.
  • Medications: Unintended Consequences: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants, can cause hair loss as a side effect. It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider if you notice unusual hair thinning while taking any medications.
  • Medical Conditions: Impacting Hair Health: Various medical conditions like thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and alopecia areata can contribute to hair loss. Managing the underlying medical issue is crucial in addressing hair loss effectively.
  • Stress: Unveiling the Connection: Chronic stress can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding and hair thinning. Implementing stress-reducing techniques and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can mitigate this effect.
  • Poor Diet: Nourishment Matters: A diet lacking essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins can weaken hair and contribute to hair loss. Ensure your diet is rich in these vital elements to support healthy hair growth.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: A Key Player: Deficiencies in specific vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and biotin, can directly impact hair health. Supplementing these nutrients or adjusting your diet accordingly can help combat hair loss.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Habits Matter: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle can adversely affect your hair health. Adopting a healthier lifestyle by quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and staying physically active can aid in reducing hair loss.
Treatment options for Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a stressful and upsetting experience. There are various treatment options available from over-the-counter medications, to doctor-recommended steroids or hormonal blockers to stop hair loss. Minoxidil, Mesotherapy, and Hair Transplant have shown by various researches that they can induce new hair growth.

  • Medications
  • Hair Transplant
  • Laser Treatment
  • PRP Therapy
Tips For Preventing Hair Loss

With the right care and habits, you can maintain a healthy hair. Here are some effective tips to prevent hair loss and promote a vibrant mane.

  • Nourish Your Scalp with a Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Incorporate foods like leafy greens, nuts, eggs, and fruits into your meals to provide essential nutrients to your scalp and hair follicles.

  • Keep Your Hair Clean and Hydrated: Regularly washing your hair helps to keep your scalp clean and free from excess oils and dirt that could lead to hair loss. Additionally, ensure you keep your hair adequately hydrated by using a suitable conditioner after each wash.

  • Avoid Excessive Heat Styling: Frequent use of heating tools such as straighteners and curling irons can weaken your hair strands, making them more prone to breakage and hair loss. Limit the use of these styling tools to protect your hair’s health.

  • Massage Your Scalp for Improved Circulation: A scalp massage stimulates blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss. Incorporate a gentle scalp massage into your routine to reap the benefits.

  • Choose the Right Hair Products: hair products that suit your hair type and are free from harsh chemicals. Natural and gentle products can help maintain the health of your hair and prevent damage.

  • Manage Stress Levels: Stress can be a significant contributor to hair loss. Incorporate stress-relieving activities such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your routine to keep your stress levels in check and preserve your hair.

  • Protect Your Hair from Sun and Pollution: Excessive exposure to the sun and pollution can damage your hair. Wear a hat or use a scarf to shield your hair from the sun, and consider protective styles to minimize exposure to pollutants.

Conclusion

Hair loss of Alopecia and scalp problems are very common complaints in the everyday Dermatologic Clinic. Hair loss of any kind frequently causes major distress for the patient and can lead to anxiety depression or an inferiority complex. It can be genetic or due to some medical illness, but there are always treatment options available the patients need to understand that the treatment of hair loss takes time and patience.

The entire scalp contains around 1 lakh terminal hair follicles. Every follicle undergoes an individual cycle with growing and resting periods. Normally 40-70-100 hairs are shed per day and new growth occurs simultaneously. But once you start to notice hair fall with hair thinning then you should consult a doctor at Hairfree and Hairgrow, as soon as possible.

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