Dermatologist near Algonquin discusses why we have hair loss along with medical treatment options
Posted by Dr. Vikram Khanna
What causes hair loss?
There are many factors that can contribute to hair loss in both men and women. They include:
- Genetics – Heredity is the most common cause of hair loss. Many people inherit the genes for hair loss through one of their parents.
- Hormone fluctuation – Changes in hormones that occur during pregnancy and menopause can both contribute to hair loss in women.
- Disease – Alopecia is the most common condition that causes hair loss. It can affect adults and children.
- Damage – Overuse of certain chemicals or bleaches found in some products can cause hair breakage and loss.
- Medications – Some medications that treat depression, high blood pressure, and arthritis can lead to hair loss.
Types of hair loss
The following are the different types of hair loss that can occur in men and women.
Androgenic Alopecia – Androgenic alopecia can begin as early as adolescence. Typically, the hair recession begins along the forehead at the front of the hairline and gradually begins to extend back over the head. Androgenic alopecia can also occur in women.
Alopecia Areata – This is the sudden loss of hair in patches. It can affect both adults and children, although most patients will regain hair within one to two years.
Telogen Effluvium – This is temporary thinning of the hair that can occur when there are changes in the hair growth cycle.
Involutional Alopecia – This occurs most commonly in older adults when more hair follicles become inactive.
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Diagnosis of hair loss
During diagnosis, we take a full medical history along with physical exam. Some common tests used in the diagnosis of hair loss are:
- Pull test – Just like the name sounds, this test involves pulling out several strands of hair to observe how they come out.
- Blood test – This is used to determine if there is a medical condition causing the hair loss.
- Biopsy – A scalp biopsy is used to evaluate the skin and the hair roots to determine if hair loss is caused by infection.
- Microscopy – A special instrument is used to view hairs trimmed at the base to evaluate for certain disorders.
Once we determine the type of hair loss, we can discuss treatment options
Medical treatment for hair loss
While certain types of hair loss will resolve on their own, others may require medical intervention. Medical treatments can be used to slow the progression of thinning hair and to stimulate regrowth. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used to get the best results. Options include:Medications
There are two main medications that we use to treat hair loss: Minoxidil (topical) and Finasteride (oral).
Minoxidil – This topical medication is applied to the scalp to prevent further hair loss and can also encourage regrowth. The medication must be applied twice daily to experience the best results.
Finasteride – This is prescription drug is only available to men and is taken daily in pill form. Finasteride can help slow the hair loss process and stimulate growth of new hair.
Laser therapy
While many have heard of laser therapy to remove unwanted hair, some are surprised to find out that there are many benefits to laser therapy when it comes to stimulating hair growth. Laser technology can be used to increase circulation which stimulates the hair follicles to grow hair. Our hair is an important part of our individuality, so when hair loss occurs, it can be a troubling experience. At Dermatology Specialists of Illinois, we want to help patients who are experiencing the discomfort of hair loss. If you are in the Algonquin area, call us today at (844) 307-7546 to schedule a consultation on hair loss. We’re here to diagnose and treat hair loss to have you feeling confident and attractive again. Don’t wait, contact us today.
