Understanding Hair Loss

There are many types of hair loss and in order to treat the condition successfully, it is important to understand the differences. Below is a summary of the main hair loss conditions and how best to treat them.

Androgenic Alopecia

The most common form of hair loss, Androgenic Alopecia or Androgenetic Alopecia is more commonly known as Male Pattern Baldness or Female Pattern Hair Loss. It affects approximately 80% of men and 50% of women. It is caused by the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which attacks the hair follicles, slowing hair growth. In men and some women the hair growth will eventually cease altogether resulting in baldness. There are only two treatments that have been shown to be both safe and effective in tackling this condition. Minoxidil (for men and women) and Propecia (for men only) have undergone extensive clinical studies and as a result have been licensed by the MHRA and FDA-approved for the treatment of hair loss in the UK and the USA respectively. Minoxidil can be prepared in various formulations, so it is advisable to see a hair loss specialist who will be able to tailor the treatment so that it works most effectively.

Telogen Effluvium

This is hair loss that is caused by a 'shock to the system'. Illness, stress, childbirth, rapid weight loss or taking certain medications can make some hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen (resting) phase. These follicles remain in this phase for 3 months, after which time they are shed which means that sometimes the person has recovered from the event before the hair loss occurs. In many cases, the hair growth cycle will return to normal 6-12 months after the event. However, if any of these factors continues, or if the person is particularly sensitive to the causing factor(s), this condition can trigger Androgenic Alopecia.

Diffuse Hair Loss

Underlying health problems such a hypothyroism, hyperthyroidism, a blood disorder, or a nutritional deficiency can cause Diffuse Hair Loss. This results in an increased rate of hair fall which leads to noticeable thinning all over the scalp. Stress can also play a part in this condition. The underlying problems must be resolved for the hair growth cycle to have a chance to recover and then a tailored hair loss treatment programme can support the hair restoration.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is caused by an auto-immune disease. The immune system produces white blood cells and antibodies to attack bacteria, viruses and other unwanted foreign bodies. If a person has an auto-immune disease, their immune system mistakes part or parts of your body as foreign. When a person has Alopecia Areata many of their white blood cells gather around the affected hair follicles which it mistakes as foreign parts. This causes inflammation and sudden patchy hair loss. In some cases the condition will progress to Alopecia Totalis (total loss of scalp hair) or Alopecia Universalis (total loss of scalp and body hair). The exact number of people affected is not known but it is estimated that 1 in 1000 people suffer from the condition. In approximately 20% of cases there is a genetic link. It is possible to treat mild or early stage Alopecia Areata however the treatment must be tailored to the individual and again, a specialist will be able to help find the treatment that will work best.

If you are concerned about thinning hair or hair loss, the best action you can take is to see a reputable specialist. Always take a little time to do some research - look at previous clients' comments and photos and ask lots of questions. Help is out there and being proactive can make all the difference to maintaining your hair and preventing hair loss.