Why am I losing my hair?

One of the most common causes of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. This hereditary condition causes hair follicles to shrink and  eventually lose their ability to produce new hair. Androgenetic alopecia is due to a hormone called DHT, which increases when testosterone increases and decreases. Patterns vary by gender: men tend to start with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, which can eventually lead to baldness; women tend to have more diffuse thinning across the scalp.

 

Hormonal fluctuations, such as menopause, can lead to hair thinning and loss. Medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also cause hair loss. Medical illnesses like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and/or anemia can disrupt hair growth patterns. Chemotherapy drugs are notorious for causing significant hair loss. Other medications, including blood thinners, antifungal drugs, and certain antidepressants, may cause hair loss. 

 

A lack of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins D and E, can impact hair health. Eating a balanced diet that provides necessary vitamins and minerals is crucial for maintaining healthy hair growth. 

 

Significant stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to temporary hair loss, a condition known as telogen effluvium, or “shock loss”. The effects of emotional or mental stress are based on the intensity of the stress, not whether it is good or bad stress (for example, getting married rates high on the stress intensity scale, getting fired rates as equally intense). The effects of physical stress (illness, surgery, significant weight loss, physical trauma, etc.) are also based on intensity. Fortunately, once the underlying stress is addressed, the hair growth cycle usually returns to normal. 

 

Finally, hair loss is a natural part of the aging process. As we get older, hair follicles go through changes, resulting in thinner and less abundant hair. This occurs in both men and women and is influenced by genetic and hormonal factors.

​

What can I do about it?

The Best You, PLLC offers 2 cutting-edge treatments for hair loss. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections with and without extra Growth Factors and/or Exosomes as well as Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) Hair Transplants using the NeoGraft® technique.

​

Hair loss maintenance is usually an ongoing process, regardless of what treatment you use...

Androgenic alopecia and some other forms of hair loss are ongoing processes/diseases. They will continue to cause hair loss even after these treatments. There is no “cure”. In order to keep as much hair on your head as possible for the rest of your life, we recommend certain medications and other treatments. PRP can be used instead of or in addition to those treatments for maintenance.  
 

Please click the links below to learn more about each treatment option.

​

​