Hair loss is very common, but this doesn’t make it any less upsetting if it happens to you. Both male and female pattern baldness are largely genetic. So, if one of your parents experienced hair loss, there’s a good chance you will too.
There are also other types of hair loss, like alopecia, that can be caused by stress or illness
You can minimize hair loss by using a mild shampoo, avoiding dye and blow dries and eating a healthy, balanced diet.
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What types of Hair Loss are there?
Hair loss is simply the partial or complete absence of hair from areas on the body where it normally grows. This condition is medically known as alopecia and can also be referred to as baldness.
Alopecia can affect both men and women of all ages. There are many different types of alopecia with many different causes and symptoms.
The most common cause is male-pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). This type of baldness is hereditary and will affect around 50% of all men by the age of 50. Male-pattern baldness is characterised as a receding hairline accompanied by thinning of the hair on the temples and crown. Male-pattern baldness is caused by sensitivity of the hair follicles to the hormone testosterone. With exposure to testosterone the hair follicles eventually shrink and stop functioning. Male-pattern baldness is normally genetic and is not a sign of disease or ill health. Hair loss in men can be effectively treated, with a number of treatment options available including medicinal and surgical options.
Female-pattern baldness is much less common and is usually characterised by the thinning of hair on top of the head. Female-pattern baldness generally has less treatment options than male-pattern baldness, although it can still be effectively treated.
Other types of Hair Loss include:
Alopecia areata: This can occur at any age but is far more prevalent amongst teenagers and young adults. It is estimated that six out of every ten people affected will experience their first bout of alopecia areata before they reach the age of twenty. Alopecia areata will present as patches of baldness that can come and go. It is thought to be caused by a problem with the immune system.
Scarring alopecia: This can also be referred to as cicatricial alopecia. Scarring Alopecia is usually the result of another condition, such as lichen planus or discoid lupus. Scarring alopecia involves the hair follicle being completely destroyed meaning the hair will not grow back
Anagen effluvium: This can affect the whole body. It is most commonly caused by chemotherapy.
How is Hair Loss diagnosed?
Most cases of male hair loss (androgenic alopecia) can be self-diagnosed without the need to consult a doctor. It is likely someone in your family (your father, grandfather, or uncle) will have suffered with the same condition and your hair loss will follow a similar pattern. Most male-pattern baldness becomes apparent over a number of years so it may initially be difficult to notice until it becomes more pronounced. If treatment is desired, the earlier it can be started, the more effective it is likely to be. If you are concerned, your GP should be able to perform a diagnosis by simple examining your hair and scalp. This examination will help them identify which form of hair loss you are suffering with and offer the necessary advice.
How can Hair Loss be treated?
Hair loss, such as male-pattern baldness, is usually only treated for cosmetic reasons. The medicines used to effectively treat male-pattern baldness are Finasteride and Minoxidil
It is important to start hair loss treatment as soon as possible after you start experiencing male pattern baldness. It is much easier and more effective to keep existing hair rather than grow it back.
Female-pattern baldness is also treated using Minoxidil similar to the male version although it is a lower strength.
Finasteride is used to treat hair loss and comes in a 5mg tablet form and requires one to be taken each day.
In the body, the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone causes the hair follicles to shrink. Finasteride blocks this conversion, thus allowing the hair follicles to return to their normal size. Finasteride is actually thought to increase the amount of hairs people have, improving its overall look. Treatment will usually be required for six months to reverse the balding process and treatment is then continued long-term. If treatment is halted, then hair loss will likely resume within a six to twelve month period. Finasteride is available on Thexco Health.
Minoxidil can be bought over-the-counter or online on Thexco Health without the need for a prescription. It is available as a topical lotion that is rubbed into the scalp every day. It isn’t exactly clear how minoxidil works but it has been shown to encourage regrowth and thickening of the hair. Like Finasteride, Minoxidil will need to be used for several months before the results are visible. If treatment is stopped then the balding process will usually resume within a few months.
Other available treatments available for hair loss include wigs and surgical hair transplants.
How can I prevent Hair Loss?
Preventing hair loss can sometimes be out of your control. Genetic factors can mean it is programmed into your genes to lose your hair. The best approach to adopt is to start treatment early and take good care of your hair and scalp by:
Not subjecting it to constant or extreme heating or drying procedures.
Reducing the amount of dyeing your hair undergoes.
Being careful about over-styling and the products you use. Some styles require the hair to be pulled tightly with clasps, clips and elastics. This can cause hair loss if done on a daily basis.
Washing your hair regularly using a mild shampoo and avoid brushing when the hair is wet.
Avoiding rubbing vigorously with a towel when drying. Instead, gently pat dry.
Brush the hair using a soft bristled comb or brush. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet.
A healthy body is more likely to have healthy, stronger hair. Avoiding stress where possible.
Getting plenty of sleep and exercise.
Considering stimulating the scalp with a weekly scalp massage.