0
Hair Loss: Understanding and Management
Hair loss is a natural part of life, with most individuals shedding 50-100 hairs a day as part of the body’s natural renewal process. However, when hair loss becomes more pronounced due to factors like genetics or severe stress, it may require medical intervention for effective management. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the various aspects of hair loss, its causes, and available treatments to help you regain control of your hair’s health.
Types of Hair Loss
Female Patterned Hair Loss (FPHL)
FPHL is characterized by a distinct pattern of hair thinning in women, with approximately 40% of women displaying signs of FPHL by the age of 50. This condition is influenced by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, often associated with conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome. FPHL typically results in widespread thinning throughout the scalp, particularly at the crown, with a preservation of the frontal hairline. Over time, affected hair follicles also decrease in diameter, a process known as miniaturization. Treatment options for FPHL have historically included minoxidil and hormonal therapies like spironolactone. However, emerging evidence suggests the effectiveness of alternative treatments such as low-level light therapy (LLLT), microneedling, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and newer stem cell therapies. In some cases, hair follicle transplantation may be a suitable option.
Male Patterned Hair Loss (MPHL)
MPHL is the most common type of hair loss in men, affecting about 50% of men over the age of 50. Similar to FPHL, MPHL is influenced by genetic and hormonal factors, with a heightened sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) playing a significant role. DHT leads to the thinning, shortening, and lightening of scalp hair until the affected follicles shrink and cease hair production. MPHL typically presents as receding hairlines and thinning hair on the top and front of the head. Diagnosis is primarily based on a patient’s medical history and clinical examination. Treatment options for MPHL include minoxidil, hormonal treatments like finasteride, low-level light therapy, or hair transplantation.
Hair Thinning: Telogen Effluvium
Hair thinning, medically known as telogen effluvium, is distinct from hair loss in that it involves the hair transitioning into a rest phase called telogen, characterized by thinning hair and increased hair loss. This can escalate from the average daily loss of 50 hairs to as many as 150 hairs per day. There are five categories of hair thinning within telogen effluvium:
Immediate Anagen Release: This occurs when hair prematurely leaves the anagen (growth) phase and enters the telogen phase. The effects become visible after 2-3 months with increased telogen effluvium.
Delayed Anagen Release: Often associated with pregnancy, this results from prolonged anagen phases due to pregnancy hormones. It leads to heavy shedding postpartum. Short Anagen Syndrome: Characterized by persistent telogen hair shedding and the inability to grow hair long. It results from a shortened anagen phase and is the most common cause of hair thinning.
Immediate Telogen Release: This is generally linked to drug-induced shortening of telogen, leading to a massive release of telogen hairs.
Delayed Telogen Release: Involves a prolonged telogen phase followed by a delayed transition to anagen. This can be responsible for seasonal hair loss in humans.
Managing Hair Thinning and Loss
If you’re experiencing reduced hair thickness or quality, there are steps you can take to address the issue. The solution lies in understanding the condition through clinical diagnosis and then improving the hair’s strength, resistance, and overall health. This can be achieved through a prescribed regimen of topical products, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. By taking a proactive approach and seeking professional guidance, you can effectively manage hair thinning and regain healthy, vibrant locks.
Santi London, 33 Thurloe Street, London SW7 2LQ Appointments: 0207 5847000 info@santilondon.com