Losing Your Hair? Here are 15 Things To Know, Per Dermatologists

If you have noticed more hair in your brush than usual, you might be feeling a bit concerned. Hair loss can be startling, but you are not alone in this. Let us walk through some key things dermatologists suggest keeping in mind when you are dealing with hair loss. Here are 15 things to know about hair loss.

Understand It is Common

First, know that you are definitely not the only one going through this. Hair loss, or alopecia, affects many people at some point in their lives. It can be due to a bunch of factors—age, genetics, hormones, or health conditions. So, while it’s unsettling, it’s also a common issue that others are navigating.

Identify the Type of Hair Loss

There are several types of hair loss, and identifying which type you are experiencing is essential to tackling it effectively. The most common type is androgenetic alopecia, which you might know as male or female pattern baldness. But there are also alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and others. Each type has different triggers and treatments, so knowing your type helps a lot.

Check Your Diet

What you eat is what your hair will look like! Dermatologists often point out that a lack of certain nutrients, like iron, vitamin D, and protein, can lead to hair loss. If you think your diet might be lacking, it could be worth looking into a blood test to check your levels and maybe tweaking your meals to include more hair-friendly nutrients.

Stress is a Big Factor

Stress does not just mess with your mind; it can literally make your hair fall out. Conditions like telogen effluvium are often triggered by stress. This means that managing your stress could be a key part of your hair loss strategy. Whether it is yoga, meditation, or just taking more time to chill, it can reduce hair fall.

Over Styling

We all want to look our best, but sometimes, the things we do to our hair can contribute to loss. Tight hairstyles like ponytails or braids can pull on the hair and cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Moreover, frequent use of heat tools like hair dryers and harsh chemical treatments can weaken your hair.

Medications Might Be Involved

Sometimes, the culprit behind hair loss is your medicine cabinet. Certain medications, like antidepressants, blood thinners, and even high doses of vitamin A, can lead to hair loss as a side effect. If you have started a new medication and noticed hair shedding, it might be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider. 

Genetics Play a Role

If hair loss runs in your family, genetics might be at play. This is especially true for androgenetic alopecia, which is often inherited. Knowing your family history can provide valuable clues and help you and your dermatologist come up with a plan that might include treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) or finasteride, depending on the severity and your specific situation.

Do Not Ignore Your Scalp Health

The secret to healthy hair growth is healthy scalp. Issues like dandruff, psoriasis, and fungal infections can interrupt hair growth and even lead to hair loss. Keeping your scalp clean, using gentle, suitable shampoos, and avoiding harsh treatments can help maintain scalp health. If you notice persistent scalp issues, it might be time to see a dermatologist.

Consider Hormonal Changes

Hormones have a significant impact on hair growth and loss. Changes in hormonal levels, like those during pregnancy, menopause, or due to thyroid problems, can cause noticeable hair changes. If you suspect hormonal changes might be affecting your hair, a doctor can conduct tests and offer treatments that may help balance things out.

Early Intervention Is Key

If you are noticing hair loss, it is better to act sooner rather than later. Early intervention can prevent further loss and, in some cases, help regrow hair. Treatments are more effective when started early. So, if you are concerned about your hair loss, do not wait too long to consult with a dermatologist. 

The Impact of Lifestyle Choices

Your lifestyle choices can significantly influence hair health. Smoking, for example, can impair blood circulation to the scalp, weakening hair follicles and potentially leading to hair loss. Similarly, not getting enough sleep or exercise can also affect your hair growth negatively. Making positive lifestyle changes can support healthier hair growth.

Sun Exposure Matters

You have to protect your hair and scalp from the sun, as you protect your skin. Excessive UV exposure can weaken your hair, leading to brittleness and breakage, and can harm the scalp, potentially exacerbating hair loss. Wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection when you are out in the sun can help protect your hair from these damaging effects.

Be Gentle with Hair Care

Being gentle with your hair can go a long way in preventing unnecessary loss. Avoid brushing your hair when it is wet since it is more prone to breaking. Use a wide-toothed comb or let your hair air-dry a bit before detangling. Additionally, consider using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent hair breakage while you sleep.

Explore Professional Treatments

If over-the-counter treatments are not cutting it, there are professional options to consider. Procedures like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, laser therapy, or even hair transplants can be effective for certain types of hair loss. These treatments can be costly and require multiple sessions, so it is worth discussing with your dermatologist to understand the potential benefits and downsides.

Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Finally, it is important to have realistic expectations about hair loss treatments. Some can lead to significant improvements, while others might only slow down the rate of hair loss or work effectively in conjunction with other treatments. Stay patient and maintain open communication with your dermatologist to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.