Many people find hair loss a frustrating and distressing experience. To better understand hair loss and the treatments available, let’s first look at the causes and the options f available to prevent this process.
What Are the Causes of Hair Loss?
There are numerous causes of hair loss. Genetics, hormonal changes, and medical conditions are some of the most common causes. Male-pattern baldness, for example, is a common hereditary condition that affects men as they age. Women can also suffer from genetic hair loss, though it often manifests differently than in men. Hair loss can also happen due to hormonal changes, such as those experienced during menopause or pregnancy. Other common causes of hair loss are thyroid disease, anemia, and autoimmune disorders.
Medicines and Treatment for Hair Loss
Several medications are available to slow or stop hair loss. Minoxidil, the most well-known hair loss medication, is available over the counter. Minoxidil stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, to support its revitalization and fresh growth. Finasteride, is another popular prescription medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, which is a hormone that contributes to hair loss.,.
Hair loss treatments such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy are other options. These treatments, administered in a doctor’s office, stimulate hair growth and improve the overall health of the scalp.
Other treatments for hair loss also include the following:
- Hair transplant surgery: A surgical procedure in which hair follicles are taken from a healthy part of the scalp and transplanted to a bald or thinning area.
- Topical and oral corticosteroids: Prescription medications that reduce inflammation and slow down hair loss in cases of alopecia areata.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements: Taking supplements that are rich in vitamins and minerals such as biotin, iron, and zinc can also support hair health and prevent hair loss.
- Stress management: Reducing stress through activities such as yoga, meditation, and exercise can prevent hair loss and promote overall health and wellness.
How to Prevent Hair Loss?
While there are treatments to slow or stop hair loss, adopting a healthy lifestyle from the very beginning can prevent the initiation of the process. For example, eating a healthy, balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals, can help promote hair health. You should also avoid harsh hairstyles like tight braids, tight pony tails, ironing and chemical treatments that can harm your hair and scalp.
Reducing stress is another way to prevent hair loss. Stress can be detrimental to our overall health, including our hair health. Relaxation activities, such as yoga or meditation, can be a great way to reduce stress and keep your hair healthy.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, you should see a doctor. They can identify the cause of your hair loss and recommend the best treatment for fresh hair growth.
Conclusion
To summarize, while hair loss can be a frustrating and distressing experience, there are numerous treatments available to slow down or stop it. Your doctor will first identify the cause and then prescribe the medications and the next course of actions.
