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Hair loss and hair thinning

Getting to the Root of Hair Loss

 Rebecca Marcus, MD, FAAD

How Much “Hair Loss” Is Normal? Shedding vs. Hair Loss

Noticing the hair clumps in your shower drain or a hairbrush can feel incredibly alarming. The truth is, the hair growth cycle includes a period of shedding, and hair shedding is most often normal. However, in cases of excessive hair shedding, medical conditions, hormonal changes, stress levels and heredity could all potentially be responsible. If you’re dealing with thinning hair or balding, it is important to seek the help of a medical professional to understand the root cause of the problem. Our providers at North Dallas Dermatology Associates can help guide you through several treatment options.

Shedding between 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. Each hair goes through phases in the growth cycle – the anagen phase in which hair grows, the catagen phase in which the follicle rests, and the telogen phase, in which the hair falls out. Individual hairs are in different phases at different times, and at any given time, the majority of hairs are in anagen. Excessive shedding may occur when a larger than normal proportion of hairs enter telogen simultaneously, which may occur as a result of physical or emotional stress, and/or hormonal changes. On the other hand, medical conditions causing hair loss either in distinct patches or thinning throughout the scalp have different etiologies and therefore require different treatments. So, what exactly is hair loss? Hair loss occurs when hair doesn’t grow back after shedding.

The most common causes of hair loss include:

  • Hereditary Hair Loss
  • Medical Conditions
  • Medication Side Effects
  • Excessive Hair Follicle Damage
  • Autoimmune Disease

Do not spend time attempting to count every lost strand. If you are concerned or would just like to learn about treatment options to increase your hair growth; do not hesitate to speak to one of our providers. Early signs of hair loss are best treated when acted upon sooner than later.

Top 3 Hair Growth Treatments

1.Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment (PRP)

Platelet-Rich Plasma is a non-surgical hair loss treatment that is effective in treating androgenetic alopecia, preventing hair loss, and promoting new hair growth. Patients have their blood drawn and then a special machine to separate the platelet rich plasma from the rest of the blood. This solution, rich in the body’s own growth factors, is then injected into the scalp, where it stimulates hair follicles to start producing hair again. PRP typically consists of three treatments, each spaced four weeks apart. There is minimal to no downtime. Avoid taking platelet inhibiting drugs such as aspirin for a week before treatment. After a few treatments, you will be able to see a change in your hair texture and volume.

2. Custom Hair-Growth Compound

Custom hair-growth compounds are effective when treating hair loss. Over-the-counter, topical treatments such as Minoxidil, treat thinning hair in men and women. This topical treatment promotes new hair growth by prolonging the anlagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Compounded formulas combine FDA-approved medication to create custom products for every patient to treat, prevent, and reverse hair thinning. Book a consultation with our providers to determine the most appropriate option for you.

3. Stem Cell Rejuvenation

Stem cell rejuvenation, also known as stem cell hair transplant, is suited for individuals suffering from moderate to severe hair loss. This also includes individuals with alopecia. This treatment involves extracting hair follicles from the scalp, which are then cultured in a lab to produce more cells. Those stem cells are then injected into the problem areas in the scalp. Stem cell rejuvenation is non-invasive and has little to no side effects. The total number of treatments varies based on the severity of hair loss. Stem cell rejuvenation offers long-term results.

 

Popular Growth Stimulating Products Recommended by Dermatologists

Nutrafol

Nutrafol is a hair growth supplement with 100% natural ingredients. These supplements are designed to improve hair growth, volume, and strength. Nutrafol restores hair growth by reducing stress and androgens in the body, a growth hormone both in men and women. This supplement is filled with stress-relieving ingredients that balance levels of cortisol. Nutrafol offers four supplements:

  • Women’s
  • Men’s
  • Postpartum
  • Women’s Balance (Postmenopausal)

Viviscal

Viviscal hair growth supplement uses hair growth ingredients to promote thicker and fuller-looking hair. It is completely drug-free. These supplements target nutrient deficiencies in the body such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins that affect the condition and strength of hair. Viviscal shows results as soon as 3 months. Viviscal offers supplements for both men and women.

Revitalash

Revitalash and Revitabrow are physician-developed serums developed to address symptoms created by environmental stressors and over-grooming. Revitabrow is a serum with advanced technology that protects against breakage, resulting in luminous defined eyebrows. This serum is perfect for those who are unhappy with the regrowth in their eyebrows and looking to improve the fullness of their brows. Survey results demonstrated great results in participants using Revitalash in just 8 weeks. Revitalash is for those looking to increase the growth and fullness of their eyelashes. This serum features ingredients that strengthen and improve the appearance of eyelashes overall. Results are  6 weeks of using Revitalash. Both serums are clinically safe and highly recommended by dermatologists.

If you’re feeling hopeless or discouraged when managing your hair loss, it is important to seek expert help. A board-certified dermatologist can help you determine the root cause of your hair loss to guide you to discover what treatment best fits your needs.

 

Call Us Today!

Here at North Dallas Dermatology Associates, we offer an array of treatments and products that can help you reach your hair goals. Call our office and schedule an appointment with one of our providers to start your new hair journey.

At North Dallas Dermatology Associates, we offer an array of treatments and products that can help you reach your hair growth goals. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your desired results.

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