Hair Loss 101

Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide. But do you know what causes hair loss and thinning hair? or what solutions are available?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll look at hair loss 101: its causes, most effective treatments, and lifestyle adjustments to help you navigate it. Whether you're experiencing the initial signs or seeking ways to lessen the effects of hair loss or thinning hair, we're here to give you knowledge and resources to help you on your journey.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Understanding the hair growth cycle is key to identifying when things are not normal. Here, we'll explore the four distinct phases of the growth cycle: anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen.

• Anagen Phase (Growing Phase) - The active growth phase, which lasts two to six years. During this period, your hair follicles are highly active and hair grows continuously until it reachs the end of its lifespan. At any given time, around 90% of the hairs on your head are in this phase.
• Catagen Phase (Transition Phase) - A brief transition period that lasts approximately 10 days. During this stage, growth slows and the hair follicles shrink. Around 5% of the hair on your head is in the catagen phase at any given time.
• Telogen Phase (Resting Phase) - A resting period that lasts around 3 months. Hairs in this phase are in a state of rest, meaning they don't grow or fall out. At any given time, 10-15% of your hair is in the telogen phase.
• Exogen Phase (Shedding Phase) - The shedding phase, or exogen phase, lasts 2-5 months. During this period, hair naturally falls out at a rate of 50-100 hairs per day. Shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle and allows for the replacement of old or damaged hairs with new ones. However, when hair loss exceeds this normal shedding rate on a consistent basis, it is a sign that something is wrong in the growth cycle.

The Importance of Scalp Health

Your scalp plays a a big part in a normal growth cycle. Poor scalp health and conditions such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis can disrupt the normal cycle and contribute to hair loss. Regular cleansing, proper hydration, and addressing scalp issues quickly are great ways to keep your scalp healthy and promote hair growth.

Types of Hair Loss

Understanding the various manifestations of hair loss is crucial for effective management and treatment. Hair loss is a nuanced condition, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to addressing it in most cases. In this chapter, we will delve into the spectrum of hair loss symptoms, ranging from subtle changes to more pronounced signs that may indicate a deeper issue.

Gradual Thinning

One of the most common signs of both male pattern hair loss and female pattern baldness is the gradual thinning of hair on the top of the head. In male pattern hair loss, this often starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, forming the classic "M" shape. In women, gradual thinning typically occurs over the entire crown, leading to a reduction in overall hair density.

Receding Hairline

A receding hairline is often associated with male pattern baldness, but less frequently, it affects women. This creates a more pronounced forehead and is a key indicator of androgenetic alopecia.

Widening Part Lines

A widening part is a common sign of hair thinning, especially in women. As hair density diminishes, the part line becomes wider and more visible

Patches of Broken Hairs on the Scalp

Experiencing patches of broken hairs on the head or scalp, known as "exclamation point" hairs, is often an indicator of alopecia areata. These broken hairs are narrower at the base and wider at the broken end, resembling an exclamation point. This type of hair loss can also extend to the eyebrows.

Circular or Patchy Hair Loss

Alopecia areata, an auto immune disorder, is a distinct form of hair loss characterized by circular or patchy bald spots that appear suddenly. These bald spots can appear anywhere on the scalp or body.

Patches of Scaling on the Scalp

Scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis can cause scaly patches, leading to hair loss. Treating the underlying scalp health is crucial for managing this skin condition.

Sudden Loosening of Hair

Telogen effluvium is a condition where a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously, resulting in sudden hair shedding. This is usually triggered by periods of high stress or as illness, surgery, or extreme weight loss.

Full-Body Hair Loss

Certain medical conditions or treatments, such as chemotherapy, can lead to full-body hair loss.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair thinning and loss has a variety of causes. From hereditary factors to hormonal changes, medical conditions to lifestyle choices, there may be several reasons for your hair loss. Recognizing the root causes is key for treating and preventing hair loss.

• Hereditary Hair Loss - The most common cause of hair loss is genetics. This is usually what people mean when they refer to male and female pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). The science is still out on what makes this so prevalent.
• Hormonal Causes - Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause often impact the hair growth cycle and cause hair loss. Chronic hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and some forms of hormonal birth control can also lead to hair thinning or excessive shedding.
• Medical Conditions - Non-hormonal medical conditions can be the cause of hair loss as well. Iron deficiency (anemia), lupus, thyroid disease, and a mental health disorder like trichotillomania (a hair pulling disorder) and chronic anxiety can also contribute to hair loss.
• Alopecia Areata - Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to attack hair follicles, causing hair loss. People with psoriasis, thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes are more susceptible to alopecia.
• Lifestyle Factors - Exposure to harsh chemicals, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles (traction alopecia) cause damage, breakage, and hair loss. In addition, nutritional deficiencies like a lack of iron or vitamin D can impact hair follicle health. If your hair loss is due to environmental or lifestyle factors, a normal hair growth cycle should resume once the cause(s) end.

Should You See a Doctor About Hair Loss?

If you're experiencing hair loss along with other symptoms like weight loss or gain, lethargy, or heart palpitations, see a doctor immediately. These may be signs of a more serious health condition. Additionally, if your hair loss is caused by hormonal birth control, your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives.

Whether your hair loss is caused by medical issues or genetics, your doctor will be able to get to the root cause and may be able to recommend the most effective treatments used to promote hair growth.

Treating Hair Loss and Thinning Hair

If you are experiencing hair thinning, there may be hope!

These approaches may not be effective for everyone, especially for those with hereditary or permanent hair loss or loss related to medical conditions.

Here are some tips to improve hair growth include:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Make sure you're eating foods that are high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Avoid regularly using heat tools like flat irons and curling wands.
• Avoid using peroxide or perm chemicals on your hair.
• Wear your hair down or choose loose hair styles. Avoid tight ponytails or buns.
• Try over-the-counter or prescription medications like minoxidil to promote hair regrowth. (Check with your doctor before starting any medication.)
• Look into hair loss treatment like low-level laser therapy to stimulate hair growth.
• If you are undergoing cancer treatment, ask about a cooling cap before you start treatment. Wearing this during treatment can help reduce hair loss caused by chemotherapy and radiation.

If your hair loss is caused by lifestyle factors or temporary conditions like pregnancy, these tips can help promote new hair growth. Be patient, though. It may take a few months or even years to see improvements.

Hair Loss Solutions

Hats aren't the only way to hide hair loss. Here are some of the most effective ways to give the look of more hair.

Hair Transplant Surgery

Hair transplant surgery is probably the first thing you think of when you think about disguising hair loss. These treatments can be effective, but they are often prohibitively expensive. The total cost depends on your unique situation, but most patients should expect to pay a minimum of $4,000 for treatment.

Wigs and Hair Extensions

If you have alopecia totalis—or total hair loss— wigs are a good solution. High-quality, natural looking wigs are relatively easy to find and are more affordable than they used to be.

If you are experiencing alopecia areata or thinning hair, hair extensions may be a good option for you. Extensions attach to your own hair, so you need to have a certain amount of hair for the stylist to work with.

Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation is a type of tattooing that deposits pigment in the dermal layer of the scalp, filling in thinning spots and giving the appearance of hair follicles. This is used to treat patients with both female and male pattern hair loss. Since the treatment is permanent, it's not recommended for those with temporary hair loss.

Visit Mr. Winston's in Dallas

At Mr. Winston's, we're all about overall hair health. Every day, we help people with receding hairlines, thinning hair, and balding find the right products and hair style to embrace their new look. Schedule your appointment at one of two convenient locations today.