Hair Loss 101: Dermatologist Tips And Treatments
If you notice your hair is thinning, you may feel relieved to hear there are ways to stop it from worsening. However, it’s important to note that treatment will depend on the reason for your hair loss. There are many reasons why you may be losing hair: medical conditions, medication, hormonal changes, stress, and even certain hairstyles can cause hair loss. In some situations, such as hair loss during pregnancy, the issue will resolve on its own.
Keep in mind, a bit of daily shedding is normal. But if your hair loss is persistent, it’s time to seek professional help. A doctor will be able to determine the cause of your hair loss and prescribe the proper treatment.
Tips and Treatments to Prevent Hair Loss
Thankfully, the market for hair loss products is competitive. Pharmaceutical and beauty companies are creating new formulas and products to fight hair loss. Competition in this industry is great news for hair loss patients, as there is no shortage of treatments to try. Below you will find a number of tips and treatments to help combat hair loss.
1. Wash and condition your hair properly.
Thinning or falling hair is very fragile, and may be damaged further by vigorous washing. For thin hair, dermatologists recommend:
- Use a gentler shampoo. A gentle shampoo won’t strip away the moisture from your hair.
- After you shampoo your hair, apply a moisturizing conditioner. The conditioner will form a protective coating that will minimize split ends and breakage.
- Use a detangler or leave-in conditioner. Regular application after washing helps reduce split ends, breakages, and frizz.
- Hot styling tools can also contribute to hair loss. Instead of blow-drying, try wrapping your hair in a microfiber towel.
2. Take multivitamin supplements.
Studies have shown that some vitamins may help prevent hair loss. Vitamin deficiency can play a large role in hair loss. Here are some vitamins and minerals that may have an impact on your hair’s health:
- Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Iron
Most multivitamins already have the recommended dosage of vitamins and minerals in a single dose. There’s no conclusive proof that taking a multivitamin supplement completely stops hair loss, so it’s important to talk to a doctor first. This is especially true since having too much of a specific nutrient, like selenium and vitamin A and E, has been associated with hair loss.
3. Getting platelet-rich plasma injection.
Injecting platelet-rich plasma directly into the scalp may stimulate growth in areas affected by hair loss. The process focuses on drawing blood from a vein, running the blood through a centrifuge to separate the platelets and growth factors, and then injecting it into the scalp.
A study in 2017, which involved 11 participants, showed that 30% reported hair growth in their
respective thinning areas after the four sessions. Each session can cost around $500 to $1,000, and your insurance provider will probably not cover the cost of treatment.
4. Using Minoxidil treatments.
Also known as Rogaine, Minoxidil is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug said to work for around two-thirds of women who use it to manage their hair problems. Simply apply the liquid or foam to your scalp daily. The side effects may include scalp irritation and acne to application areas. In rare instances, it may cause blurry vision and an irregular heartbeat.
5. Talk to your doctor.
Most people who suffer from hair loss aren’t sure where to turn for help and try to hide the problem. Hair loss can be a symptom of an underlying condition and is often progressive, which is why it’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice it. They can assess the root cause and suggest some tips or prescribe treatment.
Lastly, keep in mind that treatment may take six months to a year to show improvement. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate improvement just after starting a new regimen. It’s important to be consistent and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
If you have any questions, or would like to speak to a dermatologist about your specific hair needs, give us a call at (972)-649-6644. We’re happy to help!
