More About Hair Loss

There are many reasons for hair loss. Medications, environmental factors and stress can cause temporary hair thinning or patchy hair loss. Extreme nutritional deprivation, such as extreme dieting or nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to thinning or heavy shedding of hair.

Hereditary hair loss (HHL) is also known as male pattern baldness or androgenic alopecia is caused when testosterone attaches with an enzyme called 5AR and dihydrotestosterone or DHT is formed. DHT blocks the androgen receptors, which blocks the regrowth of hair follicles.

Since most people lose between 50-100 hairs a day, the need to replace the shedding is important to maintain hair density. DHT makes this very difficult as not only is the regrowth blocked but also in patterned areas such as the hairline and top of the head; the existing hair looks smaller, and more of the scalp shows through.

The HHL is predominant in men, but a similar pattern exists in women. Many DHT blockers are designed exclusively for male baldness and cannot be used by women. This is especially true when chemical ingredients such as Finasteride or Minoxidil are used. There are sexual and other side effects than can cause severe reactions for women. Many of the herbal or natural based products offer a comparable line for women.

Most of the brands listed here offer a treatment for hair loss as a central or main product as well as a line of hair care or supporting products such as shampoos or conditioners. Some also offer other items such as combs and brushes or fillers for temporary coverage. It is important to create a clean canvas for any of the products to work, and most of the hair care products are designed to rid the scalp of any DHT or residue that may block growth of new hair. Most of the shampoos and conditioners contain biotin, or Vitamin B7, which is known for improving the thickness and volume of existing hair. This provides the illusion of more hair, as it is thicker and denser than hair without the biotin.

A healthy diet and an active lifestyle can help with hair health as well. A diet rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins as well as protein can improve the quality and health of hair. Physical activity can stimulate endorphins and neurotransmitter activity can improve hair health and can help manage stress. Stress can contribute to additional hair shedding or thinning. Finding ways to manage the stress is important to maintain hair health.