Whereas
society generally accepts hair loss in men as ‘normal’, it’s a social problem
for women. Hair restoration surgeon Dr Craig Ress estimated that between four
to eight percent of women suffered from what’s known as female pattern hair
loss. Four percent experience a diffused pattern and the rest male pattern
baldness, i.e. in patches. But don’t despair. Much can be done to deal with the
condition.
In
treating female pattern hair loss, it’s imperative to obtain the correct
diagnosis. Underlying medical conditions may trigger hair loss. Therefore, any
causal physical problem has to be corrected first.
The
most common cause is androgenetic alopecia, a genetic sensitivity to the effect
that males hormones (called androgens) have on hair follicles. Other possible
causes are:
Stress
and fatigue, including illness, may trigger hair fall. Other stress factors may
be pregnancy, menopause or surgery.
Drugs
such as antibiotics may interact with the scalp activities or interrupt blood
flow to the scalp. This may be temporary until medication is stopped. Other
drugs that may contribute to hair fall include, in no specific order of
importance, ulcer drugs, anti-coagulants, anti-depressants, beta blockers,
blood thinners and Parkinson’s medication.
Improper
hair care with harsh shampoos and other hair treatments may damage the hair to
such an extent that hair loss occurs.
Genetics
play a major role in the type of hair on your scalp. If you have a family
history of hair fall, chances are that you’ll experience the same problem.
Thyroid
problems also may contribute to hair loss.
A
diet low in vitamins A, C, E and B12 has been known to result in brittle,
unhealthy hair prone to breakage and falling out. Consult your healthcare
practitioner to prescribe supplements.
Scalp
infection may cause itching, dandruff, patchiness and hair fall. The scalp
needs to be infection-free and squeaky clean.
At
Lasermed, alopecia is treated successfully with the Excimer Laser and Dermapen
advanced needling. It’s recommended that sufferers should also consult one of
our dermatologists for a diagnosis and a prescription for topical medication.
Don’t let
hair loss get you down. Medical technology offers a wealth of options to treat
and/or surgically rectify the problem.
