The hair is such a prominent feature that affects how we see ourselves and how we think others perceive us. Hair loss, also called alopecia, can sometimes be such a big affair, bringing along different psychological and emotional issues which can lead to depression and anxiety. Therefore, it is important for hair clinics to know and understand how to deal with these clients who are distressed and emotional. This article discusses some of the hair loss treatment options available on the market that may lead to healthy hair growth and restoration.
Top Cause Of Hair Loss In Women
Different causes can lead to hair loss, with the main cause being Androgenetic Alopecia. This type of hair loss is strongly linked to genetics, and the symptoms present differently. You might experience hair thinning or patchy hair loss. Unfortunately, this condition is progressive and needs intervention. Other factors leading to hair loss include the natural ageing process, fluctuating hormones, medical conditions, effects of medications and supplements in addition to hairstyles and treatments.
Effective Hair Loss Treatments For Women
A variety of treatment options are readily available for female alopecia. These include topical medications, hormone therapy, light therapy, and hair transplants.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil belongs to a class of medicines called vasodilators. It works by improving blood flow to the applied area. This results in more oxygen and nutrient-rich blood being supplied to the hair follicles. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves this over the counter foam/solution for the safe treatment in women experiencing hair thinning. The drug comes in two different concentrations. The 2% solution can be used twice daily, whilst the 5% solution can only be used once a day. Minoxidil may not be used for sudden or patchy hair loss.
Light Therapy
Light therapy, also known as Low-Level Laser therapy, is widely used in hair clinics. This low dose laser invigorates blood circulation to the area that is being treated, encouraging hair follicles to grow. The laser treatment is non-invasive, there are no side effects, it’s painless, and it increases the hair strength.
More research on this treatment option is needed because results are not very consistent as it appears to be less effective for advanced hair loss.
Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is a key ingredient in some over-the-counter medicated shampoos widely used to treat dandruff and fungal infections affecting the scalp. However, according to the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, where hair loss is caused by inflammation, Ketoconazole might aid in decreasing inflammation, thereby improving the hair strength. Both low and high concentrations of ketoconazole are available, with the higher concentration requiring a doctor’s prescription.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
This treatment involves drawing out blood, usually, from your arm. This blood is separated, and the platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the scalp where it’s needed. PRP treatment activates natural hair growth by increasing blood supply to the hair follicles, thereby healing and repairing scalp tissue. Most patients will require a repeat treatment after 6-12 months to maintain hair growth. If you are on blood thinners or a heavy smoker, PRP might not be a good choice for you.
Hormonal Therapy
This treatment is best for those women experiencing hair loss due to hormonal imbalances. Women have full hair when their estrogen levels are high. When the estrogen levels drop, especially during and after menopause, hair starts to thin out and fall. Taking female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) can prevent hair loss by encouraging new hair growth and maintaining it to stay on for longer.
Corticosteroids
Some women benefit from taking antiandrogen medications. Androgens are female hormones responsible for hastening hair loss by shrinking the hair follicles and shortening their cycle, causing hair to fall off.
If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder that causes hair to fall out in clumps (alopecia areata), you may want to try corticosteroids injections. Corticosteroids are injected directly into those patches in the scalp every 4-6 weeks. You may start seeing hair regrowth within a month of starting injections. This treatment is painful for some so that you may opt for oral or topical steroids.
Hair Transplant
Hair transplant specialists use this surgical procedure to restore hair to parts of your scalp that are balding. Hair follicles are removed from a denser part of the scalp (donor site) to the bald areas (recipient site). Hair transplantations, although costing more than other hair restoration solutions, are also generally more successful than most of the other hair restoration treatments. There are two main different techniques, each with its own pros and cons, that are used for harvesting hair follicles. It is vital to discuss these techniques with your doctor so you may be able to make an informed decision.
Managing Hair Loss In Summary
Anyone, young or old can experience hair loss. Age, genetics, medication and sometimes lifestyle choice may lead to hair loss. Whatever the reason, if you see more hair fall out every day or noticeable patches of thinning hair, seek advice from your doctor or dermatologist to define a treatment plan for you. Below are a few more tips to help you keep more of your hair for longer:
- Avoid hairstyles that pull on your hair.
- Use high heat hairstyles, chemicals and bleach sparingly.
- Use medicated shampoos with the correct active ingredients for healthy hair.
- Be sure to load up on healthy, nutritional food that’s amazing for your hair.
Vinci Hair Clinic has hair restoration experts on hand to help with hair loss problems. If you’re struggling with the anxiety and devastation hair loss may cause, you’re in the right hands. Contact us and book your free consultation with us today.
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