What are some common causes and treatments for Hair Loss?

Hair loss can seem devastating and inevitable for those who suffer from it, Dr. Finger offers rejuvenating treatments for the varies types of Alopecia. Examine the eight most common causes of hair loss and the latest solutions offered in Savannah, Georgia. 

1. The most common cause is hereditary. 

This is called male-pattern baldness (MPB) and female pattern baldness (FPB). Alopecia affects about 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States alone. Over 40% of men have noticeable hair loss by age 35, and 65% of women have significant hair loss by age 60.

Typically, Male Pattern Baldness starts in the crown and temples and may expand to complete baldness except for the sides and back of the scalp according to family history. The age can vary from the ’20s to the 70’s. 

FPB looks more like an oval-shaped area of baldness in the center of the scalp, including the hairline. It’s typically generalized thinning. 

2. Common causes for Hair Loss in women: 

Menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, and thyroid problems (too much or too little thyroid hormone). 

In men, the most common cause of Hair Loss is too much testosterone being converted to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). 

3. Medical conditions: 

Alopecia Areata: a condition where patches of hair are lost. The diagnosis is made with a small scalp biopsy. Other medical conditions include; ringworm, dermatological skin conditions, a psychological condition called trichotillomania (pulling one’s own hair out), diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

4. Medications: 

Taking anabolic steroids causes an elevation of DHT, causing permanent hair loss in many cases. Other common causes are chemotherapy, general anesthesia, and excess thyroid hormone medication. Anorexia nervosa, the eating disorder in which a person denies themselves enough food to maintain a normal weight, commonly causes alopecia.

5. Stress:

 Such as loss of a loved one or any long-term emotion or physically stressful event.

6. Certain hairstyles can cause permanent hair loss.

 The most common being braids, seen in my office virtually weekly. Other styles would be pigtails, buns, etc. Hairstyles that constantly pull on the hair follicles can cause Traction Alopecia.

7. Smoking is a cause of alopecia.

8. Pollutants: 

Heavy metals, such as mercury and lead, can cause hair loss. Chlorine is another offender, along with smog and smoke.

Treatment should be oriented toward finding the cause of alopecia and: Topical therapy: Minoxidil 5% for both men and women. Patients prefer foam.

Hair Loss Solutions 

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

This is the injection of your own platelet-rich plasma derived via a small blood draw. The PRP is injected into the target area to rejuvenation and revitalize follicles on the scalp. 

PRP contains eight identifiable growth factors that can stimulate weak or damaged follicles to re-enter the growth cycle. Because women often experience temporary hair loss due to imbalanced hormones and stress, there is a high likelihood that Platelet Rich Plasma can be effective for that type of hair loss. PRP can help in the regrowth of healthier, denser hair, but can also help slow down hair loss in men and women. 

Dr. Finger often uses PRP in conjunction with Hair Restoration (NeoGraft) to help the grafts heal into place and improve the survival rate of the grafts. PRP should be repeated every 10-12 months to maintain results.

Hair transplantation

Taking hair follicles from the back of the scalp and transplanting them to balding areas. Success and longevity are dependent upon proper assessment by the hair transplant specialist and experience and skill of those performing the procedure. When properly done, the transplanted hair looks natural and lasts for decades. Losing hair is an issue that affects men and women of all ethnic backgrounds, and hair transplantation is the only permanent solution for people suffering from genetic the loss of their hair. Learn more about NeoGraft and FUT (Strip method) by visiting our hair restoration site.

Contact the Hair Transplant Experts Today

Whatever type of hair loss you may be suffering from, Hair Restoration Savannah is here to provide you with some of the most innovate and rewarding treatments on the market. Contact Us Today to schedule a free consultation or book an appointment to meet our Hair Specialist using the form below.