Is hair loss a problem for you too? Let's find out everything about it! (Hair Loss)

Have you ever felt a little scared and anxious when you comb your hair in the morning, or when you look at the hair on the bathroom floor after taking a shower? This is actually a common problem for many people. For some, even a little hair loss can be a big stressor. For others, even a bald spot may not be a big deal. So, whatever the reason, it is very important to be aware of your hair loss.

First, let's learn a little about hair.

Simply put, our hair is made of a protein called keratin . These are produced in tiny hair follicles in our skin. As these follicles produce new hair cells, old cells are pushed out of the skin. The hair shaft you see is actually a collection of dead keratin cells. On average, an adult has between 100,000 and 150,000 hairs on their head. It is normal for about 50 to 100 of these hairs to fall out per day. So there is no need to be afraid of a few hairs on the comb.

Every hair follicle has its own life cycle. This is divided into three main stages:

• Anagen phase: This is the period when the hair shaft is actively growing. This can last from two to eight years.
• Catagen Phase: This is a short, transitional phase, lasting about two to three weeks.
• Telogen phase: This is the resting phase of the hair shaft. After about two to three months in this phase, the hair shaft falls out. Then a new hair shaft starts to grow in its place. This cycle continues.

As you age, the rate at which this hair grows gradually slows down.

Everyone's hair is different - what are the main types?

Hair loss is medically called alopecia . There are different types of this too. Let's look at the main types.

Why does our hair fall out like this? What are the main reasons?

There is not just one reason for hair loss, there can be many reasons. Let's see what they are.

• Hormones: Hormonal imbalances, especially the male hormone called androgen (which is also produced in small amounts in women's bodies), can cause hair loss.
• Genes: The tendency to develop baldness may be determined by genes inherited from both parents.
• Stress, illness, and childbirth: These can all cause temporary hair loss. Fungal infections can also cause this condition.
• Some medications: Chemotherapy for cancer, blood thinners, some high blood pressure medications, and birth control pills can also cause temporary hair loss.
• Beauty care: Frequent shampooing, rebonding/relaxing, and dyeing can weaken the hair shaft and cause it to break. However, these do not usually cause baldness.
• Other diseases: Diseases such as thyroid disease, diabetes, iron deficiency anemia, and lupus can also cause hair loss.
• Diet: A low-protein diet or a very restricted calorie diet can also cause temporary hair loss. Some vitamins (A, B, C, D, E) and zinc deficiency can also be a cause.

How do I find out exactly what is causing this?

When you go to see a doctor, he will run several tests to find the cause.

1. Physical examination and medical history: You will be asked about other medical conditions you have and whether anyone in your family has had similar problems.

2. Skull examination: Checks for any infections or inflammation in the skull.

3. Blood tests: Your blood can be checked for iron levels, vitamin D levels, and thyroid hormone levels.

4. Trichoscopy: A test that uses a special instrument to magnify the scalp and hair follicles.

5. Skin biopsy: If necessary, a small piece of skin is taken from the scalp and examined.

What treatments are available?

Once the cause is identified, the doctor will recommend the right treatment. Remember, not all types of hair loss can be reversed. Sometimes the best thing you can do is stop the hair loss from happening again.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as Minoxidil , which is a topical medication for the scalp, Finasteride , which comes in pill form (this is mainly given to men), or steroid medications for conditions such as Alopecia Areata.

Special Treatment Methods (Procedures)

• Hair Grafting: A surgery in which hair is taken from another part of the body and replanted in bald areas.
• Light Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy): Laser light is used to stimulate hair follicles and cause hair to grow.
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: Plasma is extracted from your own blood and injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. This is a very popular method in Sri Lanka now.
• Scalp Micropigmentation: A permanent tattoo-like procedure that uses tiny dots to create a thicker appearance in areas where hair is sparse.

Things we can do to prevent hair loss

While we can't prevent some causes (like genes), there are many things we can do to protect our hair through our lifestyle and habits.

• Eat a balanced diet: Eat foods rich in nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, and biotin (eggs, fish, vegetables, nuts).
• Be gentle with your hair: Don't be too harsh when combing or washing your hair. Avoid tight hairstyles.
• Avoid excessive heat: Reduce the frequency of straightening, curling, and using blow dryers on high heat.
• Use a good shampoo and conditioner: Choose a gentle shampoo and moisturizing conditioner that suits your hair.
• Manage stress: Try to relax your mind through things like yoga and meditation.