Hair Loss: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Hair loss is a disorder where the hair production cycle on the scalp is disrupted. It has several causes and corresponding treatment options.

Hair Loss

Stress, heredity, hormonal disorders, ponytails, braids. The list of causes responsible for hair loss is extensive. A key point in addressing hair loss is an immediate visit to a dermatologist and timely diagnosis of its underlying cause.

What is Hair Loss? Hair loss is a disorder that describes the interruption of the body's hair production cycle. It can occur on any part of the body, but is most common on the scalp. Hair loss can be an isolated problem or be related to another condition. Depending on the cause, it can be temporary or permanent. Considering that our hair follicles are formed during the embryonic stage of life, it is rather expected that we will all face some form of hair loss at some point. Even that which is linked to the natural hair growth cycle. It should be noted that the scalp contains approximately 100,000 hairs, which go through cycles of growth, rest, shedding, and regeneration. Hair loss occurs when new hair does not replace that which has fallen out.

Not Always a Symptom of Illness Hair loss does not always signify a medical problem. We lose 50 to 100 hairs daily, as part of the body's normal process of constantly renewing hair and removing old ones. This is not considered a pathological condition. Symptoms of hair loss, which affect millions of people worldwide, appear suddenly, gradually, or even months or years before they are noticed.

Types of Hair Loss The main types of hair loss are: Androgenetic alopecia , which affects both men and women. Alopecia areata , in which the immune system attacks hair follicles, slowing their growth. Diffuse hair loss , which is usually caused by intense stress or a hormonal imbalance. Cicatricial alopecia , which is a permanent damage to the hair follicle.

Common Symptoms The most common symptoms of hair loss, as they appear in our daily lives, are: Gradual thinning of hair. Thinner ponytail. Receding hairline, which becomes more noticeable each year. Hair loss symptoms can appear gradually and suddenly with significant hair loss in a short period, the appearance of a "patch" on the scalp within 1-2 days, or massive hair loss, as well as hair loss all over the body.

Hair Loss: What Causes It? The list of causes of hair loss is extensive, yet these often determine the progression of hair loss. In hereditary hair loss, for example, treatment can stop or slow down hair loss and contribute to the growth of new hair. The same applies to other causes of hair loss, such as alopecia areata. Also, various stressors, childbirth, or surgery can cause you to see more hair on your brush. Also, various stressors, childbirth, or surgery can cause you to see more hair on your brush.

Diagnosis While not all forms of hair loss can be cured, a dermatologist can identify the appropriate treatment regimen to stop hair thinning and prevent further deterioration. To determine the cause of hair loss, the dermatologist will gather information from a complete medical history, carefully examine the scalp, which can provide a lot of information, and if they suspect an underlying illness, they will recommend blood tests or a skin biopsy.

How to Stop Hair Loss? Modern treatment options for hair loss offer very good results, always under the guidance of a specialist doctor.

Mesotherapy Hair mesotherapy is based on the same philosophy as the technique performed on the skin. Micro-injections are administered with vitamins, amino acids, trace elements, and growth factors into the scalp which stimulate the growth of healthy and strong hair. Mesotherapy is recommended in cases where hair thinning has begun, with the aim of preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.

PRP Therapy One of the treatments gaining ground in recent years for hair loss is autologous PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) mesotherapy. This is a safe, non-surgical option that uses platelets from the patient's own blood.

When should I be concerned about hair loss?

If you notice significant and concerning hair loss, for example, a large amount of hair in your brushes, or that your hair has become very thin, a larger forehead area, or 'bald spots' on your scalp, you should consult your dermatologist.

Why am I experiencing hair loss?

You may experience hair loss as part of the normal hair growth cycle, as well as for many other reasons. A stressful event, such as surgery, a high fever, intense stress (grief, divorce, job loss), recovery from illness, significant weight loss, as well as various medical conditions can be responsible for your hair loss.

What should I watch out for in hair styling to prevent further hair loss?

Avoid heat styling tools such as curling irons, and straighteners. Also, stop perms, dyes, and chemical straightening. Choose the lowest temperature for your hairdryer and avoid hairstyles that pull the hair back, such as ponytails, braids, etc. Such a hairstyle on a permanent basis can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia.

What shampoo should I use when experiencing hair loss?

Use a gentle shampoo and don't skip moisturizing conditioner. Wrap your hair with a microfiber towel to help it dry faster and reduce the time and damage from blow-drying.