Did you know that there are approximately 80 million people in the US who are affected by hair loss? The month of August is a great time to raise awareness for this condition; we will be discussing the possible causes and available treatments for people struggling with the physical and emotional toll of hair loss.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Everyone sheds about 50-150 hairs per day, but if you’ve noticed thinning hair or bald patches, it could be time to schedule an appointment with your doctor or a dermatologist. Some causes can be taken care of on your own, but others require medical treatment. These are some of the most common reasons for your hair loss:
Underlying Health Conditions
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that is one of the leading causes of hair loss and it typically results in bald patches on the scalp and other areas of the body. Other conditions like irregular hormone production, thyroid disease, and a reduced immune system can also lead to hair loss.
Medications
Chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer often lead to hair loss. There are many medications linked to hair.
Hormone Fluctuations
Menopause is a common cause of hair loss among women but pregnancy and puberty can also affect hair growth. Certain medications might also affect hormone levels and lead to sudden hair loss.
Stress
Stress and emotional disorders are often linked to hair loss. Poor skin quality can also result because of prolonged stress. Some people even have a condition called trichotillomania that causes them to compulsively pull out their hair.
Malnutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for overall body functioning. Without the necessary vitamins and minerals, hair loss and many other health conditions can arise.
Hair Products
Certain hair products have harsh chemicals that damage the hair or irritate the scalp. Constantly styling your hair in tight ponytails or brushing it too aggressively can also weaken the hair and cause it to thin.
Who is Affected by Hair Loss?
Hair loss is a common condition for men and women over the age of 50, but people of all ages can be affected. Men are more likely to develop hereditary hair loss or male pattern baldness while women are often affected by hormonal or trauma-induced hair loss. Although rare, children can also be affected by hair loss or a delay in hair development caused by uncommon health conditions.
How is Hair Loss Treated?
There are many forms of hair loss treatment and we will help you find the right one depending on the type of hair loss you have. At your consultation, we will discuss your medical history and desired goals to help you find the perfect treatment for your individualized care.
Prescription Medication
There are a variety of medications that can aid with hair loss. Corticosteroids can be administered as a topical solution, pill, or injection. They work by suppressing the immune system to prevent alopecia and other forms of hair loss caused by autoimmune diseases. We offer multiple topical hair regrowth medications.
LED Light Therapy
Revian Red uses clinically proven technology to encourage hair regrowth and prevent future hair loss. In just 10 minutes-a-day, the convenient at-home therapy utilizes a patented combination of powerful red (660nm) and orange light (620nm) – the Right Light – clinically proven to grow more hair in less time than other hair loss products.
PRP & PRF Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is naturally found in every patient’s blood, and it has a wealth of healing and growth factors that stimulate new hair growth and rejuvenate the scalp. PRP can be administered with injections or microneedling.
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) treatments stimulate collagen production and enhance skin firmness, texture, and elasticity. By aiding in collagen production, PRF can help improve the skin’s firmness and texture.
Schedule a Consultation
You might be afraid to talk about your hair loss, but there is nothing to be embarrassed about. At the Fargo Center for Dermatology, our compassionate team is dedicated to helping you restore healthy hair with a variety of treatment options. Schedule a consultation today by calling our office or filling out an online contact form.
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