Are you noticing thinning hair? Have you ever considered the negative effects of hair loss? It can lead to self-consciousness, social distress, dissatisfaction with facial appearance, a sense of aging, loss of self-confidence, dissatisfaction with body image, a feeling of inadequacy, and emotions like frustration, anger, embarrassment, and stress.
Did you know that 1 out of 3 adults in the United States faces the challenge of hair loss? Particularly for men, the majority notice hair loss by the age of 35. The good news is that over 60% of medical hair loss and thinning can be effectively managed, controlled, or even reversed without resorting to surgical options. Women experience an impressive 90% success rate in hair re-growth, while men dealing with hormonal alopecia have a 65% success rate.
The hair follicle cycle is one of the most complex miniorgans of the body. Hair growth is dependent upon a number of processes including stem cell signaling and a cascade of biological events that take place for proliferation and remodeling of hair follicles.
What is the physiology of hair growth? Hair follicles can be in different stages of hair growth (Anagen- which is the longest stage), regression (Catagen), or rest (Telogen). During normal hair loss, most hairs fall out during the Catagen and Telogen phases of hair growth.
For those experiencing female-pattern hair loss (FPHL) the hair generally thins all over the head. Male-pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia) is usually a hereditary condition that may begin at any age. Hair loss often begins on the front, sides, and/or on the crown of the head. Predominantly, the symptoms are elevated androgen levels. Understanding this cycle is crucial as it involves complex processes like stem cell signaling and a cascade of biological events necessary for hair follicle proliferation and remodeling.
Considering the intricate nature of the hair follicle cycle, combination treatments are often the key. It's worth noting that certain prescription drugs, such as antidepressants, blood thinners, cholesterol, epilepsy, chemotherapy, Parkinson's, acne, hypertension, hormones, and non-inflammatory prescriptions, are associated with hair loss. Regular exams and diagnostic tests, including hormone, iron, thyroid, complete blood count, and cortisol testing, are essential.
When exploring therapies for hair loss, consider incorporating iron, Vitamin D, zinc, B-complex, Omega-3, Ginkgo Biloba, L-Lysine, L-Arginine, Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF), microneedling, and LED light therapies into your routine.
Keep in mind that hair loss is a multi-factorial experience, and there are combination therapies designed to correct this process. To optimize results, it's crucial to diagnose and treat early since hair loss tends to be progressive.
At Enrichment Skin Solutions, in Brooklyn Park, MN we are here to collaborate with you on a personalized strategy for managing hair loss. Our goal is to help you identify and reduce common triggers, stimulate hair follicles, address nutrition, supplements, antioxidants, stress, sleep, office procedures, and work together to restore your hair.