Hair loss is common in people of every race, age and gender. The most common cause of it is hereditary, while there are other causes such as side effect of medication, hairstyles that constantly pull on the scalp: Traction alopecia, a medical condition: alopecia areata, or a psychological condition whereby people pull their hair out: trichotillomania.
In any case, what to do after hair loss? Here are some dermatologist recommended tips:
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Supplementation:
Many times hair loss can be dealt with simply by improving nutrition. B complexes and zinc deficiencies can manifest as hair loss. Thus, taking supplements containing biotin, copper, and zinc can help reduce hair fall, especially in women.
Lifestyle:
Just like skin, hair need love too. Make sure that you are not using harsh chemicals that are causing hair fall or damage. Heat in the form of excessive blow drying or styling without heat protectant sprays can also damage the hair. Improving the diet and lifestyle can also combat hair loss.
Minoxidil:
Minoxidil is a non-prescription drug that can improve hair loss when applied topically on the scalp. It stimulates the growth of hair and also prevents their thinning. It is an FDA approved product for both men and women, used widely for treating hair loss.
Laser:
Laser emitting devices—combs and brushes—can stimulate hair growth. These devices are also commonly used to improve the appearance of the hairline. However, there is not much research available for these devices, and their long term ramifications are not known.
Corticosteroid and Finasteride:
Prescription medication that is used for hair loss includes: finasteride and corticosteroids. Finasteride is a drug that prevents the formation of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone in males that causes balding. This drug is therefore for male patients only. It has shown to reduce the percentage of hair loss in men (88 percent), and can even stimulate the growth of hair (66 percent). Corticosteroids are given when hair loss is caused by some form of inflammation in the body—such as in alopecia areata. These drugs improve hair loss by combating inflammation. It is applied topically on the scalp to improve local hair loss.
Hair transplant surgery:
For the permanent hair loss that is resistant to treatment, hair transplant surgery is still an option. In this procedure, tiny patches of skin (from the back or side of the head) are taken, and then hair is implanted follicle by follicle into bald sections. More than one surgeries could be needed to get the desired results.
Scalp reduction:
Other types of surgeries could include removal of the bald patch of scalp and bringing together of hair-bearing scalp. This procedure can be performed alone, or together with hair transplant surgery.
Scalp expansion:
Devices are placed under the scalp for three to four weeks, to stretch the skin. This makes the skin lax, and later scalp reduction can be performed on this skin. Otherwise, hair bearing areas could be expanded with this technique and thus balding can be reduced.
If you suffer from balding, then know that there are many surgical and non-surgical treatments out there that can improve your hair loss. Consult a dermatologist to know what treatment option suits your needs.
Book an appointment with a top dermatologist in Multan, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.
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