Hair Loss: From Common Conditions to Proven Treatments, Are You Informed?

Hair affects our appearance as well as our self-confidence. So, it's normal to feel a little burdened and worried when the amount of hair loss increases day by day. "Is this normal, or is there something wrong with me?" "What can I do about this?" These are probably questions you have in mind. Today, we will talk in detail about this hair loss , what are the common and scientifically proven treatments, what research has been done on it, and why we should be careful when using some herbal oils available in the market.

How much hair is normal to lose per day?

First of all, we need to understand that hair loss is a natural process. Our hair has a specific growth cycle. It consists of three main stages:

• Growth phase (Anagen): This is when the hair shaft grows. This can last for several years.
• Catagen: This is a short period of time where the hair shaft stops growing and begins to separate from the follicle.
• Resting phase (Telogen): During this time, the hair follicle rests, and the old hair follicle is shed as a new hair follicle begins to grow in its place.

So, due to this cycle, it is considered normal for a healthy person to shed between 50 and 100 hairs per day. This amount can vary slightly from person to person, depending on factors such as how often the hair is washed, the products used, etc.

When does hair loss become a 'problem'?

While it's normal to lose a certain amount of hair every day, if the amount suddenly increases, or if you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be a condition to be concerned about:

• If you notice more hair than usual when combing your hair, bathing, or on your pillow in the morning.
• If the hair on some parts of the scalp is thinning and the scalp is becoming visible.
• If your hair suddenly starts falling out in circles and forming patches.
• If you are experiencing hair loss or balding at the front or top of your head.

There are various reasons why this situation may occur. For example:

• Androgenetic Alopecia : Affects both men and women.
• Temporary hair loss (Telogen Effluvium) occurs after stress, major illness, or childbirth.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of nutrients like iron , zinc, and biotin.
• Thyroid disorders.
• Side effects of some medications.
• Fungal infections of the scalp.
• Pulling hair tightly and styling it ( Traction Alopecia ).
• Autoimmune diseases such as Alopecia Areata .

Therefore, if you feel like you are losing more hair than usual, it is best to seek medical advice to determine the exact cause.

What are the scientifically proven treatments for hair loss?

Fortunately, there are several scientifically proven methods to treat some hair loss conditions. But remember, not all treatments work for everyone, and results take time to show.

• Minoxidil liquid or foam:
  • This is a medicine that is applied to the scalp. It dilates blood vessels , increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. It is also believed to prolong the growth phase (anagen phase) of the hair.
  • Available forms: Available as liquid and foam in 2% and 5% strengths.
  • Research: Research has shown that this has shown good results for androgenetic alopecia (genetic baldness) in both men and women. However, you need to continue using it, as stopping it can cause hair loss.
• Finasteride tablets (mainly for men):
  • This is a pill that is taken orally. It inactivates the enzyme (5-alpha-reductase) that converts the hormone testosterone in the body into a chemical called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a major cause of hair loss.
  • Research: Research has shown it to be a very effective treatment for male pattern baldness. However, it should only be taken on medical advice. Some side effects may occur. It is not suitable for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. (Dutasteride is another similar drug).
• Laser therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy - LLLT):
  • This involves directing low-energy laser beams at the scalp. This is believed to stimulate cellular activity, energize hair follicles, and promote hair growth.
  • Research: Although some studies have shown somewhat promising results, more research is needed to draw a definitive conclusion about its success.
• (PRP) Treatment:
  • In this, platelet-rich plasma is separated from the patient's own blood and injected into areas of the scalp where hair is thinning. It is believed that the growth factors in the platelets stimulate hair growth.
  • Research: Some studies have shown successful results.
• Hair Transplant Surgery:
  • In this, hair follicles are taken from areas of the body with good hair growth (usually the back of the head) and transplanted into areas where there is no hair. There are two main methods: FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) and FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction).
  • Research: This is a proven surgical procedure that provides consistent results. But it needs to be done properly by an experienced doctor.
• Nutritional Supplements (only if a deficiency is proven):
  • Only if it is proven that a deficiency in nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin, or vitamin D is contributing to hair loss, can these be taken under medical advice. Not everyone will grow hair as a result of taking these. A blood test should be done to confirm that there is a deficiency.
• Treatment of chronic conditions:
  • If hair loss is caused by a thyroid problem, a fungal infection, or a condition like alopecia areata, treating the underlying condition may help control hair loss.

Why are some herbal oils not suitable for hair loss? (Things to consider)

There are various herbal oils and creams on the market that claim to "stop hair loss and regrow hair." While some of these may provide some nourishment to the hair and moisture to the scalp, most of them have not been scientifically proven to be a permanent solution to hair loss (especially conditions like androgenetic alopecia). There are a few things to be aware of:

• Lack of scientific evidence: Many products have not been adequately tested in rigorous clinical trials to prove their effectiveness. It is risky to choose a treatment based solely on hearsay that "it worked for someone else."
• Deceptive advertising: Sometimes exaggerated claims like "miraculous results" and "hair grows in a week" are hard to come by.
• Allergies: Some oils contain ingredients that are not suitable for everyone's scalp. This can lead to allergic reactions, scalp redness, itching, and burning, and even hair loss.
• Quality issues: We have no way of knowing exactly the purity and quantities of ingredients in unregulated products.
• Avoiding an underlying medical condition: If there is a serious medical condition that is causing hair loss, using only these types of oils without properly diagnosing and treating it will only aggravate the condition.
• Not a solution for all hair loss: For hair loss that is hereditary or caused by hormonal influences, it is difficult to expect a permanent solution from a regular oil. It often requires medical intervention.

This is not to say that all essential oils are bad. Some natural oils (such as coconut oil and almond oil) can be good conditioners for hair and help prevent dry scalp. Also, some essential oils have been shown in preliminary research to have some effect on stimulating the scalp. However, it is difficult to consider these as a "medical treatment" for the condition of hair loss.

Why is it important to seek medical advice?

If you feel like you're losing more hair than usual, the best thing to do is to see a dermatologist. There are several reasons for this:

• Correct diagnosis: Only a doctor can identify the exact cause (or causes) of your hair loss.
• Personalized treatment plan: Your doctor can recommend the treatment plan that best suits you.
• Avoid unnecessary expenses and wasting time: You don't want to waste money, time, and precious hair by pursuing things that don't work.
• Don't rule out a serious chronic condition: Sometimes hair loss can be a symptom of another disease.

Finally...

Although hair loss is a problem that affects many people, it is important not to panic about it, but to find the right information, seek medical advice if necessary, and take appropriate steps. There are scientifically proven treatments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also greatly support the health of your hair. Above all, believe in yourself! I hope this information is useful to you. Don't forget to share this article to raise awareness among others.