I am thinking about hair replacement, but what causes female hair loss?
A good question, as more is being learned every month about hair loss in general. A recent online article from the US gives some interesting reasons/possible causes for female hair loss:
5 Things That Cause Female Hair Loss
Paul Taylor
There are five factors that will cause female hair loss numbers to increase in the future - this article explains what they are.
Up to 50% of women suffer significant hair loss by the age of 60. This statistic is already bad, but it's only going to get worse! There are the reasons why:
1. More women delay having children until they’re much older
2. Stress
3. Poor nutrition
4. The menopause
5. An ageing population
I do not have a lot of time for dealing with my hair loss with work, travel, family, etc. How much of my time will a hair re-growth programme take per week or day?
Time, especially in London, is a valuable thing. This is why we created our Home Hair Re-Growth programme. These revolutionary kits have all that you need to strat dealing with your hair loss. You simply need about 15-20 minutes every other day to use them. They are very simple, and spearheaded by FDA approved products. Also, our kits come with our industry-leading warranty. Just click here to see what I am speaking about: http://www.myhairfacts.com/whitecliffshomehairregrowth.html
Andrew
What does the future hold for hair loss and re-growth?
WHITE CLIFFS believes that the next ten years will hold even further breakthroughs regarding hair loss... things will get even better with stem cell breakthrough based drugs. Being conservative in our thinking, we hate false and "over promises" that the hair loss and replacement "industry" makes. We think hair loss solutions will evolve as opposed to "revolutionise"- meaning things will get better steadily. The good news is that already there is significant help available to deal with hair loss and re-grow hair. Our Better Way Hair Re-Growth Kits and programme use the only products ever proven and approved by the USA FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to re-grow hair. Out of the thousands of products globally that "claim" to sole hair loss, only 3 have ever come forward and been tested and proven to work by the FDA (the gold standard for medical product approval). WHITE CLIFFS uses all 3 of these FDA products to speah-head its 3-prong approach to be super-effective. All of the other so-called (and untested) products out there have simply run a mile from FDA testing, which itakes years. By the way, unlike WHITE CLIFFS products, Nourkrin does NOT have FDA approval or testing behind it. Nor does it have our Better Way Promise/warranty.
So, things will get even better in the next 10 years regarding hair loss, but right now there is incredible hope for hair loss sufferers using our Home Hair Re-Growth Kits or Programme. And best of all is that we warranty them with the best gurantee anywhere. To see them just go to http://www.myhairfacts.com/whitecliffshomehairregrowth.html
Andrew
Hair Loss Causes
Each day, we are bombarded with advertisements for products and services to improve our hair. While some of these products may enhance appearance, they also can contribute to hair loss. August is Hair Loss Awareness Month and a good time to take stock of your locks. Breaking through the myths of hair loss and hair care is the first step to maintaining beautiful hair for life.
Speaking today at ACADEMY '05, the American Academy of Dermatology's summer scientific meeting, dermatologist Zoe D. Draelos, M.D., clinical associate professor in the department of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C., dispelled traditional myths about hair care and discussed how poor hair care can contribute to hair loss.
"Hair loss affects 80 million American men and women and while it isn't life-threatening, it can cause emotional distress," said Dr. Draelos. "Disease, genetic predisposition and even poor cosmetic grooming practices all cause hair loss. Even simple changes in your hair care routine can result in healthier hair."
Myth #1 - Dandruff does not contribute to hair loss. Dandruff is caused by a fungus known as malazzesia globosa. This fungus is commonly found floating in the air which is why dandruff can be treated, but not cured. In addition to the scaling which characterizes dandruff, the condition also can lead to hair loss.
Studies have shown that with only 90 minutes of continuous scratching by the fingernails, it is possible to remove all of the cuticular scale, a protective covering on individual hairs, off of a hair shaft. This loss leaves the hair shaft weakened and permanently damaged, making it easily susceptible to breakage and hair loss.
"The most effective dandruff shampoos and conditioners contain zinc pyrithione," advised Dr. Draelos. "These ingredients leave behind thin plate-like pieces of medicine on the scalp to prevent regrowth of the fungus, thus acting as a preventive measure for both dandruff and the hair loss associated with scratching."
Myth #2 - Prescription shampoos treat scalp diseases, but also damage hair.
The two most common scalp diseases are dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, which is characterized by both redness and scaling. "People often view products that treat these conditions as harsh and medicinal," explained Dr. Draelos. "These misconceptions have led many people to choose to live with the scalp itching rather than treat it with what they fear are harmful chemicals."
Technological advances now allow prescription shampoos to have the necessary medication to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis while also containing the same mild cleansers found in cosmetic shampoos. "These potent prescription antifungals remain on the scalp, preventing reoccurrence and ultimately helping keep hair healthy," said Dr. Draelos.
Myth #3 - As hair turns gray, permanent waves and color treatments should be stronger.
As people age, they lose melanin, the pigment that gives the hair color. To retain a youthful look, many people dye their hair. Hair dye interacts with the melanin already present in hair to produce the final hair color, but gray hair is less likely to dye as dark as hair that contains more melanin. Also, as hair ages, the hair shaft becomes finer, and thinner hair shafts are more susceptible to chemical damage from permanent waves and coloring.
"Hair growth slows with age, meaning the same hair is often chemically treated multiple times. The more the hair is treated, the more damage is done and the more chance for hair breakage," stated Dr. Draelos. "As hair ages, perming and coloring solutions should be weaker and be left in contact with the hair for as short a period as possible."
Myth #4 - Blow drying hair with heat gives the hair body. Blow drying hair is a common morning ritual for many people. While it is a quick, convenient way to dry and style hair, blow drying damages hair as the high heat from a blow dryer can actually boil the water in the hair shaft leaving it brittle. In addition, vigorous towel rubbing or combing of wet hair also can cause hair loss, since wet hair is more elastic and more vulnerable to breakage than dry hair.
"Rather than blow dry, the hair should be allowed to air dry, with styling and combing occurring once the hair is partially dry," recommended Dr. Draelos. "This will provide excellent body with less opportunity for hair shaft damage."
"Hair Loss Awareness Month is a good time to refine your hair care routine. Keep your hair healthy by eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding overprocessing with chemicals and using styling tools that are flexible and easily slip through hair," advised Dr. Draelos. "If you are experiencing itching or hair loss, visit your dermatologist to explore a treatment that will work best for you."
I am feeling very alone about my hair loss- is it rare?
It is guestimated that up to 30% of the population suffer from some sort of hairl oss problem- temporary or permanent- from male pattern baldness to Alopecia Areata to Androgentic Alopecia to stress and chemical hair loss. So, you are not alone at all! It only looks like hair loss is rare because many people are able to cure it, slow it down, or disguise it. With technology being so advanced, companies such as WHITE CLIFFS are able to pretty much deal with any type of baldness or hair loss. Hair loss is something we can deal with. You just have to try. Stefan
Do herbal medicines such as Chinese 101 work?
The only hair loss or growing products ever shown to work, and thus approved by the FDA (the USA's Food and Drug Administration, the leading global approval board), are Minoxodil (Regaine) and Propecia. No matter what claims are made (and there are many) concerning miracle hair loss cures, no other drugs, herbs, or concoctions can make any scientifically-based and accepted claim to work. That's it. You may be wasting your money and risking your health.
-Andrew
I have clumps of hair coming out, that moves around... what is this?
Without seeing you first-hand, I am at a disadvantage. But, it sounds like classic Alopecia Areata. This condition occurs differently in diffrent people- some have "clumps" that come out in specifica areas, others have hair thinning in areas, etc. Some people have their hair grow back quickly, others take longer, etc. Always tell your GP, and get an expert opinion of a specialist. Please see the earlier post/question "What is Alopecia Areata?" go to the website of The National Alopecia Areata Association http://www.naaf.org/default2.asp. Remember, no matter how bad Alopecia Areata is, there is hope as well as millions of other sufferers... you are not alone.
Steve
I have heard that in London a company offers 12.5% Minoxodil solution. Is this better that the 5% one- is it more effective.
The manufacturer of Minoxodil(Regaine) is the giant pharma firm called Pfizer. Currently the most powerful version of Regaine is 5%- nothing more. WHITE CLIFFS feels that if the inventor and original manufacturer does not offer a 12.5%
version there must be a good reason for it (maybe side effects, dangerous reactions, etc.). Until Pfizer with its respected scientists and massive research and testing resources determines to offer a version of anything stronger than a 5% solution (or at least approves the usage of such a product), I would advise NOT USING IT.
Paul
Newest Report on: Why Men Go Bald from MSNBC in the USA.
Where did my hair go? Why men go bald
Surgery, comb-overs, hairspray — men will do almost anything to keep hair loss at bay. 'Today' looks at why it matters so much
Today show
Updated: 10:01 a.m. ET June 2, 2005
There are about 100,000 to 150,000 hairs on the human scalp, and most guys want to keep them right where they are. However, many of them can’t. Male pattern baldness affects 40 million men in the U.S., and a quarter of them start going bald by age 30. In this three-part series, “Today” looks at how baldness happens, and why it matters.
Sex, power, privilege and youth are all images that go hand-in-hand with men and their hair.
“It’s extremely important — right up there with food, water, family,” said one man.
“I would look into any and all means possible to retain my hair,” said another man.
Hairstyles are an expression of the man underneath the locks. And if the hair goes, often confidence and self-esteem are quick to follow.
But women aren’t always as focused on male baldness as the men themselves. What do they say?
“For me, a man with a bald head looks sexy,” said one woman.
“The hair is not important to me. It's what's inside that counts,” said another woman.
But that's not stopping many men from working on their outsides as well. From hair transplants to non-surgical techniques, the follicular fight rages on.
Why does it happen? Androgenetic alopecia — otherwise known as male pattern baldness — is caused by the presence of a male hormone known as DHT, a bi-product of testosterone, which strikes unsuspecting hair follicles.
“It's a combination of androgens, which is DHT, and genetics, which you get from both your mother and your father,” said Dr. Ivan Cohen, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine.
Like other genetic traits, hair loss can strike one brother in a family and not the other. Short of surgery, and two medications, there are no FDA-approved treatments for this type of hair loss.
“What happens in male pattern hair loss is that the growing cycle becomes shorter so the hair does not grow as long as it once did. It becomes finer, and eventually the growth cycle is eliminated,” said Cohen.
“The stated causes of baldness have changed during various eras. For example unclean living, going to prostitutes, excessive masturbation, stress,” said Gersh Kuntzman, the author of “Hair: Mankind's Historic Quest to End Baldness.”
“The ancient Romans started the whole use of hot pepper in products on the head. The reason being, you put it on and your head would sting, and you'd think, ‘Oh, it's working.’ ”
In an effort to make the most out of what they do have, some men have embraced the infamous comb-over technique, a subject explored in the independent documentary "Combover, The Movie."
“When you realize your hair is thinning, it's terrible. A lot of guys just can't deal with it,” said Rodney Cutler, Esquire magazine's grooming editor. He says the right hairstyle can make all the difference. “It's OK to have short, thinning hair as long as it looks stylish and strong.”
And for those who want to embrace baldness, Kuntzman says today's their day. “A lot of people like to credit Michael Jordan with being one of the greatest basketball players ever. But for bald men, this guy is the icon.
© 2006 MSNBC Interactive
My hair is thinning at the front with the hairs getting smaller and smaller. Will this stop or get worse?
The process of hair follicles getting smaller resulting in tiny hairs is called "Miniturization" and can get worse over time, depending on the individual- it is usually part of the balding process called Alopecia. In some cases such as Androgenetic Alopecia (male pattern baldness), some if not most people afflicted will lose much of their hair on the front and crown.
The good news is that there is help for you to deal with hair loss at any stage - the earlier the better- so we can help you get back or keep that beautiful head of hair.
Andy
Does my hair loss mean there is something wrong with me?
Not at all. A large part of the population, at any age, suffer from hair loss to some degree. Of course, as people age, hair loss tends to increase in its occurance rate and severity. Most cases occur from "Androgenetic Alopecia" or common male pattern baldness- a circular thinning at the crown of the head and/or thinning at the front. It is genetics that mostly cause the condition, and it is harmless- except for its effects on self esteem, confidence, and self happiness.
Sometimes other factors can cause hair loss such as hormone problems, exposure to chemicals and toxicity, accidents, etc. But, these are much rarer causes. Above all, remember that hair loss effects the majority of the population as they age... and that hair loss can be dealt with.
I am in my twenties and am thinning. How long will it be before I am bald?
No one really knows, and be wary of those that offer some time of date- often to scare you into buying a product. All people are very different, and thus no can scientifically say with accuracy how fast or slow the balding process will be- even by looking at parents and relatives. But, the earlier it is dealt with the better the treatment and solution that will occur. When it comes to hair loss, it is best to be proactive. Also, when dealt with early, it is harder for those you see regularly such as co-workers and friends to notice any treatment changes that occur.
I feel very depressed about my hair loss- is this normal?
You are not alone, as hair loss can indeed effect many aspects of one's life including confidence, outgoingness, cheerfulness, and self-esteem. Such a simple thing such as hair has an amazing effect on some people's lives. Because hair "frames" a person's face, it adds texture, softness, balance, and less surface area- allowing features to better blend in with another. This overall effect is to usually make a person much younger, rough, and softer looking- more appealing visually. But the effect is very complicated, to the point that science is still trying to discover its full effect.
Can any lotions or pills help me grow my hair back? Are these dangerous?
The only two medically proven for solving hair loss and regrowing hair are Minoxodil (Regain and Rogain) and Propecia. Usually, neither can re-grow long locks; instead, resulting in short hairs. They also work differently with various users (some experience hair growth while some may do not). To deal with hair loss effectively, both must be used for life, and once stopped any hair re-grown will be lost and hair loss resuming/continuing.
Over the years and thousands of hair loss clients, we have found that best way to use these FDA approved drugs is in combinations with other FDA approved products to create a multi-prong approach. On their own, for minor hair loss or thickening they are fine. But, when combined with our other FDA and other products in a programme they potentially generate more significant results.
-Steve
Why do we go bald/suffer hair loss?
There are many reasons, but the most common is due to genetics. The condition of Androgenetic Alopecia is where the hair has an allergy to the hormone chemical DHT, which wraps around the pailla of the hair follicle and cuts off its nourishment. Over time, the hair becomes smaller until it finally falls out. This is the cause of over 90% of male pattern baldness.
Age, stress, chemical and toxic exposure, hormones, accidents, and certain ailments also can cause hair loss.
Is hair loss permanent?
Hair loss from androgenetic alopecia(male pattern baldness) usually is permanent. Although there are extremely rare cases where hair has come back. In cases of Alopecia Ariata (hair loss patches in various areas around the scalp), hair can re-grow in the patch areas, but the bald patches will tend to move around and thus re-occur- i.e. occuring in different spaces. Whether or not the hairloss is permanent varies with each individual.
Can surgery replace a full head of hair?
Sadly, surgery cannot replace all 98,000 to 120,000 hairs on a head. It usually is used to fill in bald areas, or make the appearance of having hair. Hence, when you wet the grafts or go swimming they will reveal the skin below them (the hair will look very thin). The good news is that there are other ways, such as systems, that can replace your full head of hair (that are undetectable) and allow you to resume a full, normal active life including swimming, sports, etc.
Why do we mostly go bald on top and not on the sides?
The hair on the sides in called "Glandular hair", and is immune (has no allergy to) to the chemical DHT which is the most common cause of male pattern baldness.
What is Alopecia Areata?
Alopecia areata (al-oh-PEE-shah air-ee-AH-tah) is a highly unpredictable, autoimmune skin disease resulting in the loss of hair on the scalp and elsewhere on the body. This common but very challenging and capricious disease affects approximately 1.7 percent of the population overall, including more than 5 million people in the United States alone. Due to the fact that much of the public is still not familiar with alopecia areata, the disease can have a profound impact on one's life and functional status, both at work and at school.
In alopecia areata, the affected hair follicles are mistakenly attacked by a person's own immune system (white blood cells), resulting in the arrest of the hair growth stage. Alopecia areata usually starts with one or more small, round, smooth bald patches on the scalp and can progress to total scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or complete body hair loss (alopecia universalis).
Alopecia areata occurs in males and females of all ages and races; however, onset most often begins in childhood and can be psychologically devastating. Although not life-threatening, alopecia areata is most certainly life-altering, and its sudden onset, recurrent episodes, and unpredictable course have a profound psychological impact on the lives of those disrupted by this disease. For more information,
go to the website of The National Alopecia Areata Association http://www.naaf.org/default2.asp
-Stefan
Can stress cause hair loss?
In some cases, under extreme stress, hair loss can indeed occur- but is not common. In terms of stress hair loss, we most often see people with density loss. The most common cause of hair loss is genetic, however.
I have very tight corn rows and seem to be losing hair at the front. Can these cause baldness?
If corn rows (hair very tightly braided usually in Afro Style) are too tight over time they can literally pull out hairs by the roots. Usually at the front hairline and at the back where an anchor knot (big knot) is tied; this is called Traction Alopecia. Do not tie knots too tight! Traction Alopecia can also be caused by incorrect hair weaves that pull out the hairs they are anchored to (during day to day activities and sleep the weave can put strain on the hairs it is woven to).
At WHITE CLIFFS we see many customers with this problem and are usually able to help with therapy to try and re-grow the hair, thicken rrounding hair, or repace hair with a system if required.
I have alopecia totalis- what happens if I order a system and my hair grows back?
We monitor your hair condition eah time you come to see us for a re-groom every 3 weeks or month. This allows us to check for hair growth, and to see the general condition of your scalp. If we see significant re-growth we will make you aware of it. Your system allows for some hair growth underneath, hence, you can slowly grow back your natural hair under your WHITE CLIFFS system (eventually "grow out" of the system) so no one notices the change.
Warren
