Shedding of hair is a part of natural balance; some hairs fall out while others grow in. When this balance is interrupted (when hair falls out and less hair grows in), hair loss happens. Hair loss is different than hair shedding. Generally, humans shed between 50 and 100 hair strands per day. Shedding of hair more than that is considered hair loss. The medical term for hair loss is “alopecia.” (#)
Many think that only men are affected by baldness, but this is not the case. About 50% of women are experiencing hair fall problems, the female pattern hair loss (FPHL), which is why one-third of the affected females.
Any female can be experiencing hair loss, but it is common in:
1. Age more than 40 years
2. Pregnant and lactating mothers
3. Women undergoing chemotherapy
4. Those who use harsh chemicals on the scalp
5. Women who have hairstyles that pull the hair strands.
6. Vitamin deficiency
7. Those who undergo dieting for rapid weight loss
8. Aging and menopause
9. Extreme emotional stress
How to reduce or treat hair loss?
• Hairfall due to stress and pregnancy doesn’t need any treatment as it gets solved over a period of time.
• Diet rich in vitamins and protein will help the growth of hair.
• Regular massaging of the scalp with warm oil will help in improving the blood circulation of the scalp and thereby increases hair growth.
• Numerous natural methods like applying coconut oil, fenugreek seed paste, fermented rice water, onion juice, egg white, etc., in the scalp show good results in hair growth.
• Any health condition which causes hair loss should be treated appropriately.
• Hair loss due to chemotherapy or radiation may be permanent as it permanently damages the hair follicles.
• In case hair loss is due to hairstyles, changing hairstyle without hair being pulled will give better results.
• Taking multivitamin supplements regularly may control hair fall.
• Estrogen therapy: It focuses on supporting decreasing estrogen levels.
• Minoxidil 2% or 5% is a scientifically approved treatment. It is available as solutions, foam, gel, or tablets. It can be used indefinitely and should follow the product instructions strictly. Pregnant and lactating mothers should not use minoxidil. Consult the doctor immediately if it shows any allergic reaction. Wash the face thoroughly after applying it to the scalp as it may cause facial hair growth.
• Laser treatment and steroids are also effective.
• Hair transplantation cannot be usually done in females as the pattern of hair loss is rather dispersed and low volume. (#)
• Injecting PRP (protein-rich plasma) is used nowadays as it gives better results. PRP is prepared from the patient’s own blood by removing the platelets.
Bottom line (#)
If you notice or suspect you're losing more hair than you must, determine the cause and start on treatment earlier than later.
Even though drugs like minoxidil helps to reduce hair fall, there are numerous other reasons and clinical conditions which cause hair fall. So consulting a dermatologist before starting own treatment is always recommended. Speak to a doctor about the exact symptoms and history to diagnose the cause and help you with the exact customized treatment plan.
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