It is documented that 50% of women and 70% of men suffer from a form of hair loss during their lifetime. Most people shed between 50 to 100 hair strands on a daily basis as part of the hair’s normal growth pattern. When a person begins to experience a sudden hair loss of 150 to 200 hair strands per day, it may be a sign of an underlying condition or be contributed to external factors.
A hair follicle’s life cycle has three phases. The anagen phase is actively growing hair that continues to grow between two to eight years. Catagen is the transitional hair growth of two to three weeks and the telogen phase involves hair growth of up to three months before it is “shredded” and a new hair replaces it.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
There are a reasons a person might experience hair loss, from genetics to medical conditions. Also worth noting is that hair loss in males may be caused by different factors compared to females.
There are four major types of hair loss:
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, is the most common type of hair loss. It is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors that cause the hair follicles to become smaller and produce thinner hairs over time. This type of hair loss can affect both men and women, although it is more common in men.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. It is thought to be caused by an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a form of temporary diffuse hair loss that occurs when a large number of hairs enter the telogen (resting) phase at once. This can be caused by physical or emotional stress, certain medications, or nutritional deficiencies. Treatment for this type of hair loss includes addressing any underlying medical conditions or lifestyle changes that may be causing it.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a form of gradual hair loss caused by constant tension on the scalp from hairstyles such as tight braids or ponytails. In some cases, traction alopecia can be reversed with treatment if caught early enough; however, in more severe cases it may require surgery to repair the damage done to the scalp and restore lost hair growth.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
If you are experiencing hair loss, it is important to consult with a reputable healthcare specialist. They will be able to give a proper diagnosis after conducting a physical examination of the scalp and discussing your medical history.
The physical examination typically involves inspecting the hair strands under a microscope, a blood test, and/or a scalp biopsy. As the hair loss may be caused by an underlying condition, there are several factors that need to be ruled out before a treatment plan can be established.
Treatments for Hair Loss in Brampton
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Brampton is a popular therapeutic treatment for hair loss due to its safe and effective methods. Through this modern medical technique, a small sample of your own blood is taken, then spun in a centrifuge machine to extract the plasma rich in platelets. This platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is then injected into your scalp, stimulating hair regrowth by promoting the natural production of collagen, new cell growth, and blood flow to your hair follicles. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that requires no downtime, so you can quickly return to your daily routine while experiencing the benefits of a fuller head of hair.
Nutritional Therapy
The body as a whole requires a sufficient nutritional base to stimulate healthy hair follicles. By following a customized nutritional therapy plan, the body receives the needed proteins, minerals, and vitamins that otherwise may be lacking and contributing to hair loss.
Vitamin Therapy
Vitamin therapy is an intravenous treatment that infuses antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals your hair follicles need to grow and rejuvenate. Health conditions, medications, stress, and nutritional habits can deplete the body of these essential supplements.
Other Treatments
Topical Minoxidil
Commonly known under the brand of Rogaine, this form of hair regrowth formula is approved by the USFDA for males and females.
Topical Corticosteroids
Certain medications and health conditions can destroy hair follicles. Topical corticosteroids are used to promote hair growth, especially in people with immune system suppressor conditions such as alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and discoid lupus erythematosus.
Prevention and Healthy Hair Habits
Along with medical approaches, there are several preventive measures that may help reduce the risk of hair loss in some cases. These preventive methods include:
- Use mild shampoo
- Clean hair and scalp regularly
- Use heat-protected hair products
- Limit the amount of heat used by hair styling appliances
- Only brush hair once dried
- Consume abundant amounts of fresh greens and protein
- Maintain hydration
- Shower immediately following intensive workouts
- Perform stress management techniques
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep nightly
Get Expert Guidance at Heart Lake Aesthetics
If you are suffering from a form of hair loss, speak to the skin and hair specialists at Heart Lake Aesthetics. As a leading clinic in Brmapton, we offer scientifically proven hair loss treatments for people of all ages. Our certified team of experts can create an individualized hair treatment program to help you regain luxurious and healthy hair.
For a consultation for PRP hair treatment near you, contact us at (647) 324-9255 or email info@heartlakeaethestics.com.