Causes and Treatments of Hair Fall: Insights by Dr. Sheikh Mohammad Faisal
Assalamu Alaikum, I am Dr. Sheikh Mohammad Faisal, a dermatologist. Hair fall is a very common issue that affects many individuals. While losing up to 100 hairs per day is normal, excessive hair loss should be addressed as it may indicate underlying health concerns. In this article, I will discuss the causes of hair fall and the available treatment options.
Understanding Hair Fall
Hair fall can result from several causes, ranging from genetic predispositions to lifestyle factors. Let’s explore some of the most common causes:
Androgenetic Alopecia
The leading cause of hair loss among patients is androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition caused by sensitivity to androgen hormones. This condition can affect both men and women and is inherited from either parent’s lineage.
- In Men: Hair loss occurs in a pattern that starts at the front of the scalp and progresses in an “M” shape.
- In Women: The top portion of the head thins gradually, leading to female pattern alopecia.
Hormonal Imbalances
Conditions such as thyroid hormone disorders (both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism) can lead to hair loss. Women with high androgen levels due to medical conditions may also experience hair thinning.
Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential nutrients is another common cause of hair fall. This includes deficiencies in:
- Iron: Often linked to anemia, especially in women.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Inadequate levels of vitamin D, biotin, and other nutrients can contribute to hair loss.
Crash dieting or poor dietary habits can worsen these deficiencies.
Scalp Diseases
Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and severe dandruff can damage the scalp and result in hair loss.
Lifestyle Factors
Stressful work environments, high levels of stress, and unhealthy eating habits, such as consuming junk food, can significantly impact hair health.
Treatment Options for Hair Fall
Treating hair fall requires identifying its root cause. Below are some common and advanced treatments:
Medical Treatments
- Minoxidil: A widely used topical spray applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
- Finasteride and Dutasteride: FDA-approved oral medications effective in treating androgenetic alopecia.
- Supplements: Minerals and vitamins are often prescribed to address deficiencies contributing to hair loss.
Advanced Treatments
Several innovative procedures have shown excellent results in treating hair loss:
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Growth factors extracted from the patient’s own blood are injected into affected areas to promote hair growth. Sessions are tailored based on the severity of hair loss.
- Mesotherapy: A combination of vitamins, minerals, and growth factors is injected into the scalp to nourish hair follicles. It can be used alone or in combination with PRP for optimal results.
- Microneedling: This technique can be used with PRP or mesotherapy to enhance outcomes.
Hair Transplantation
For advanced cases of hair loss, hair transplantation is a safe and effective solution. Hair follicles from the back of the scalp or other areas are transplanted to bald regions. This natural procedure provides long-lasting results.
Conclusion
Hair fall can stem from various causes, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors. Treatments like medication, PRP, mesotherapy, and hair transplantation are tailored to individual needs. To determine the most suitable option for you, consult a qualified dermatologist.
Thank you for reading!