hair loss faq's.

What causes hair loss?

There are several different types of hair loss such as alopecia areata ( temporary hair loss in a coin shaped patch ), telogen effluvium ( temporary hair loss as a result of stress on the system such as a severe illness or certain types of medication ) and androgenetic alopecia ( male pattern hair loss ). Androgenetic Alopecia is by far the most common form of hair loss. This condition generally becomes evident in the 20's or early 30's by a gradual loss of hair on the top of the head and in the angles at the front hairline. The exact mechanisms associated with this type of hair loss are still unknown but without doubt inherited factors and the effect of androgens ( male sex hormones ) are mostly responsible.

What is the role of dht in hair loss?

DHT ( Dihydrotestosterone ) is the active form of the male hormone testosterone. it has been proven that high dht levels in genetically predisposed hair follicles can cause baldness. There are certain hair restoration products that block the conversion of testosterone to DHT such as finasteride ( the active ingredient in Finpecia and Fincar ) and Dutasteride ( the active ingredient in Dutas ). these products allow hairs genetically predisposed to inactivity to become active again and grow new hairs.

How early can hair loss start?

Even though male pattern hair loss usually starts in the 20's or 30's, it can start from as early as age 15. The age at which male pattern hair loss can start can be hereditory, with parents with a history of early onset male pattern baldness possibly passing this trait on to descendants. Temporary forms of hair loss, such as alopecia areata and telogen effluvium may occur in children as young as one year old.

Can certain hair styles affect hair loss?

Where the hair is restrained using a tight braid or pull-back, hair loss can occur. this type of hair loss is called traction alopecia and is caused by the hair literally being pulled out due to pressure being exerted on the root by the restraint. If the hair is exposed to this type of trauma over a long period of time, scarring alopecia can result with no potential for regrowth.

Can stress affect hair loss?

Stress is not a cause of hair loss, however, it can make certain conditions of hair loss worse. Telogen effluvium can occur after the body is exposed to stressful conditions. For example, the experience of childbirth can cause temporary hair loss in women, however, the hair returns completely to normal a few months after the birth of the baby.

Are genetics responsible for hair loss?

Genetics are not the primary cause of male pattern hair loss but are an important factor. It is yet to be determined if having a genetically affected mother rather than a genetically affected father increases the risk of hair loss conditions being passed on to descendants.

What can cause a sudden large hair loss?

Cetain stresses to the system can result in sudden hair loss. for example, extreme weight loss or gain, pregnancy, severe illness, high fever or drug use can cause temporary hair loss. this is a result of the ratio between resting hairs and growing hairs shifting in favour of the resting hairs. When this happens, a greater quantity of normally sleeping hairs fall out. a dermatologist can normally ascertain the particular reason for this type of hair loss and full regrowth can be expected.

Can certain shampoos or hair products cause hair loss?

Hair loss can occur due to an allergic reaction to a shampoo or hair product. These are very much individual reactions with the majority of people completely unaffected by the same products. If use of the particular product is ceased, the hair will return to normal. Hair loss can also be caused by caustic hair dyes and other products that cause inflammation of the scalp.

How does Minoxidil work?

Minoxidil is a powerful hypersensitive medicine used to lower critical blood pressures when used in its oral or intravenous form. It was noted that during this use, hair growth occurred in patients who had previously suffered hair loss. Even though the exact mechanism of action is unknown, it is thought that topical Minoxidil works by dilating the blood vessels in the scalp, therefore exposing the hair follicle to this increased blood flow. it is recommended that minoxidil is rubbed into the scalp twice a day. Minoxidil tends to work best on the top and back of the head and to a lesser degree on the frontal angles of the head. Tthe effect of topical Minoxidil is to decrease hair loss and maintain existing growth.

Are high strength minoxidil solutions better?

Topical minoxidil is available over the counter in two strengths: 2% solution and 5% solution. The more potent 5% solution, which is only recommended for use by men, is recognised as being more effective in preserving existing hair and stimulating new growth. It is recommended that women use the 2% solution due to the increased risk of hair growth on the sides of the face ( however, this growth is only temporary ).

How does finasteride work?

Finpecia is a potent inhibitor of enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Elevated levels of 5-alpha reductase have been shown to be responsible for increased levels of DHT ( Dihydrotestosterone ) which in turn can lead to male pattern baldness ( Androgenetic Alopecia ). Finasteride is effective in the treatment of mild to moderate hair loss. two 24 month studies were conductedon a group of men aged 18 to 41. The results were conclusive. around 80% of the men given Finasteride maintained their base hair count compared to 28% given a placebo. Also, 66% had visible hair regrowth ( noted by independent observers ) compared to 7% given a placebo.

Are Finpecia and Fincar different?

Finpecia and Fincar have exactly the same active ingredient ( Finasteride ) but in differing strengths. Finpecia pills contain 1 mg Finasteride and Fincar pills contain 5 mg Finasteride. the required daily dose of Finasteride is 1 mg, making finpecia the more convenient option. However, if using fincar, the required dose can be obtained by carefully splitting the pills ( most people split the pills into 4 x 1.25 mg doses as this is easier to guage ) resulting in a much more cost effective treatment.

How soon will i see results?

Any treatment involving finpecia, fincar, dutas or minoxidil should be used for 12 months for the full benefits to become evident.

Is surgical hair transplantation effective?

Hair transplantation involves surgically transferring grafts or small sections of hair bearing skin from the back of the scalp to bald areas on the top of the head. to construct a natural loking hairline, micro grafts are used which contain one hair. elsewhere, mini grafts are commonly used containing two to seven hairs. This type of hair restoration is very effective in most types of hair loss for both men and women. The major advantage of this type of hair loss treatment is that the results are permanent.

Important factors when considering hair loss surgery.

not all people are suitable for surgical hair loss transplantation. the amount of donor hair available is an important factor as is the balding area that requires coverage. suitability is usually evaluated by a qualified hair transplant surgeon. Results are more successful if there is an amount of hair remaining to integrate the grafts into. the aim of surgical hair transplantation is to improve coverage of balding areas in a natural looking manner. In an idael situation there is enough donor hair available to offer full coverage of balding areas.