Follicular damage and hair loss can have many causes that range from hormonal to stress related. It is a very common problem that affects men and women. Treatment for hair loss depends on the underlying cause, as each individual’s problem is unique.
One thing can be said about hair loss treatments – they have come a long way, and when used in combination, can produce beautiful results for many people with certain types of hair loss.
In this article, we are going to discuss some of the common causes of hair loss and where you can go in Tacoma, Washington, for high-quality hair loss treatments.
#1 Hair Styling Techniques and Hair Products
The excessive use of certain hair products and styling techniques can contribute to follicular damage and subsequent hair loss.
Some of these can lead to follicular damage:
- Hair color
- Perms
- Hair relaxants
- Hairstyles that pull hair back
- Excessive use of heat-styling tools
Treatment for hair loss from hair products and hair styling includes making changes to hair care and styling routines to support the repair of the hair follicles. In cases where these conditions have led to permanent damage, hair transplant surgery may be an option to restore thin or bald areas.
#2 Hereditary Conditions
Hereditary conditions and hormonal imbalances play a significant role in hair loss. Androgenic alopecia is the most common cause of male-pattern hair loss or female-pattern hair loss. This is inherited from the mother or father and causes the hair follicles to gradually miniaturize over time leading to the familiar patterns of hair loss we all recognize.
For men, typical symptoms of androgenic alopecia are a receding hairline or a bald spot at the top of the head, whereas for women, the hair loss tends to be less concentrated in a single area leading to generalized thinning often seen as a wider hair part. Treatment for androgenic alopecia is aimed at slowing or stopping hair loss and whenever possible, regrowing hair.
#3 Medical Conditions
One of the most common side effects of cancer treatments is hair loss. This type of hair loss is usually temporary, and hair can eventually grow back after treatment has been completed. Wearing a cooling cap during chemotherapy can help minimize hair loss associated with cancer treatment.
In addition, medicine used to treat medical conditions can also lead to hair loss. Examples are blood thinners and anabolic steroids. Switching to an alternative can help prevent hair loss.
#4 Stress-Related
Stress can also be the underlying cause of hair loss. It is common for individuals to experience hair loss after the death of a loved one or after surviving a highly stressful incident.
Some of the events or periods in your life where you can experience hair loss are:
- Childbirth
- Grief
- Accidents
- Surgery
- Serious illness
- Traumatic events
This type of hair loss is usually temporary. After stress gets under control, the hair starts growing back within a year.
#5 Scalp Infections
Skin problems that affect the scalp and hair follicles can also lead to hair loss.
Some of these conditions include:
- Bacterial scalp infections or folliculitis
- Fungal scalp infections, commonly known as Ringworm
- Psoriasis
- Syphilis
Once the infection or condition is treated, hair usually grows back. If left untreated, these issues can damage hair follicles leading to permanent hair loss.
#6 Hormonal Conditions
Hormonal imbalances can also cause hair loss. When hormone levels are disrupted, it this can shorten the growth cycle of hair follicles and affect the overall density and health of the hair.
Some common causes of hormone-related hair loss include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disease
The underlying issue must be addressed in order to restore the hair back to normal growth.
#7 Poor Diet and Nutrition
Nutrition deficiencies can also be behind hair thinning and hair loss. Here’s how different nutritional deficiencies can contribute to hair loss:
- Vitamin D: A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to hair loss and decreased hair density, as vitamin D is believed to stimulate hair follicles. This deficiency can manifest as dry and brittle hair that breaks easily, leading to shedding and thinning hair.
- Vitamin B Complex: Deficiencies in riboflavin (B2), biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 have been associated with hair loss. Biotin and other B vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy hair follicles and promoting hair growth.
- Iron: Iron deficiency can impact the structure of the hair, follicle development, and immune cell functioning, ultimately affecting hair growth.
- Vitamin C and Zinc: Both are important for collagen production, which is crucial for hair structure and strength. Deficiencies in these nutrients can weaken hair and contribute to hair loss.
Top Hair Loss Specialist in Tacoma, Washington
The team of hair restoration specialists at Northwest Hair Restoration can figure out the underlying cause of hair follicular damage and hair loss. From there, they will create an effective treatment plan. When you visit Northwest Hair Restoration, you will be seen by top board-certified hair transplant surgeon, Dr. Robert Niedbalski, who has over 25 years of experience treating individuals experiencing hair thinning and hair loss.
To schedule an appointment for hair loss analysis and treatment, call our office today at (253) 572-2949 or use our online form. Our friendly team of professionals looks forward to guiding you through your treatment options.
