Hair Loss

Hair, in it’s most basic definition, is a keratinous protein filament growing through the epidermis (the top layer of skin), from follicles deep in the dermis (deep layer of skin). It has a dual purpose as a protection for the scalp as well as helping to regulate body temperature.

However, hair is much more than this description; it is an integral part of the human psyche. It is a visual statement to the world about our individuality, social status, health and viability. Hair loss, on the other hand, is a distressing concern for many people. Nearly one-third of the US population has some hair loss: by age 50, approximately 50% of the male population have significant hair loss and by age 40 an estimate 40% of all women have visible hair loss. Interestingly, hair loss "remedies" have been documented back to 4000 BC in Egypt and have continued to the present. In today’s society this translates to an astonishing $7 billion per year spent on hair loss remedies in North America alone.

There are numerous types of hair loss which are initiated by a variety of factors. The four most common types of hair loss are : Androgenetic Alopecia; Telogen Effluvium, Alopecia Areata and Chemical / Traction Alopecia. There are many different tests that can be performed together with a personal physical examination to distinguish the different forms of hair loss and develop the correct treatment plan. Our dermatologists are experts in the evaluation and treatment of all forms of hair loss. le

The most common and familiar form of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia which is a genetic condition activated by the hormone dihydrotesterone (DHT). This is usually called male or female pattern hairloss. This is readily identifiable in men by receding hairlines or temple areas, or the thinning area in the crown. In women, this can be seen by the widening of the parts or a diffuse loss over much of the scalp.

Telogen Effluvium is characterized by a rapid onset of diffuse shedding of hair. This is often triggered by stressful events and/or systemic changes, such as illness, dieting, medications or psychological stress, etc. The word telogen refers to a stage in the cycle of hair growth where more hairs than usual are in a resting stage instead of a growing phase.

Telogen Effluvium

Alopecia Areata often has a sudden onset. It is typified by spotty, patchy or circular areas of hair loss. It also presents as breakage or clumps of lost hair. The hairs in the affected spot(s) can easily be removed or pulled with the fingers. In severe forms, all the hair on the scalp may be lost (alopecia totalis) or all hair on the scalp and body may be lost, including eyebrows and lashes (alopecia universalis). This type of hair loss may be associated with immunological disorders or deficiencies and may be caused by a stress or disease. However, most people who suffer from this condition are healthy.

  

Alopecia Areata

Chemical/Traction Alopecia usually involves hairstyles and hair care practices that put excess tension on the hair in some way. It frequently presents in localized or specific areas or in patterns based upon the method in which the hair is traumatized.

To date, there are medically proven treatments for androgenetic hair loss: finasteride (systemic medication for men), minoxidil (topical treatment for men and women), lasercomb (approved for men), and hair transplantation (surgical option). Of these treatments, only hair transplantation offers a permanent solution. Although the medical treatments may, in some cases, produce some hair growth they are most helpful in slowing down hair loss.

Our Medical Director, Dr. Matt Leavitt, is regarded as one of the world’s leaders in hairloss, diagnosis and treatment, including hair transplantation.