Hair Loss 101: Your Top 10 Questions Answered by Experts

TL:DR Summary

• Hair loss is a common and complex problem. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.
• Hair loss has many causes and types. Some of them are genetic, hormonal, medical, nutritional, environmental and psychological.
• Hair loss can be diagnosed and measured. There are different methods to assess the extent and pattern of hair loss.
• Hair loss can be treated and prevented. There are various options to stimulate hair growth, reduce hair fall and improve hair quality.
• Hair loss treatments have different effectiveness and side effects. Some of them are medications, supplements, topical products, devices and procedures.
• Hair loss treatments require consistency and patience. It can take months or years to see noticeable results and maintenance is essential.

Introduction

During my time at Wellaholic and before that, I have encountered many clients who frequently mention hair loss. It’s a concern that touches many, regardless of age or gender. I’ve talked to experts and dug into research to find answers.

In this piece, I’ll share what I’ve learned. We’ll cover the top 10 questions you’ve been asking about hair loss.

From why it happens to how you can deal with it, we’re going to get into the details.

My aim is to make this information clear and helpful for you. Let’s dive into the world of hair loss together, and I’ll guide you through what the experts say.

A study conducted by Wellaholic revealed that 70% of Singaporean men with androgenetic alopecia feel self-conscious about their hair loss.

Question 1: Am I losing more hair than I should be?

Shedding Light on Hair Loss: Understanding the Causes

When you spot more hair in the shower drain, it’s essential not to panic right away. Hair restoration experts say it’s normal for women to lose 50 to 100 strands of hair daily, and sometimes up to 150.

Men tend to experience even greater hair loss. As you age, hair naturally becomes thinner and more grey, making it more prone to breakage.

Many things can cause hair loss, like not getting enough protein and vitamins, having mineral imbalances, and hormonal changes. These can make hair follicles shrink and prevent new hair from growing.

Unveiling the Role of Hormones in Hair Loss

Hormonal imbalances are a common culprit behind hair loss in both women and men. The primary hormone responsible for this is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is produced by the body as a by-product of testosterone.

Testosterone serves as a precursor to various hormones, and one of them is DHT. This hormone adversely affects your hairline by causing the miniaturization of hair follicles. As a result, the affected hairs stop growing normally and eventually fall out.

This type of hair loss is known as androgenic alopecia or female-pattern hair loss (FPHL). It’s the most serious type of hair loss, as shrinking hair follicles can cause permanent baldness.

Empowering Solutions: Addressing Hair Loss Challenges

While hair loss can be disheartening, understanding its underlying causes empowers you to seek effective solutions. Consulting with a professional hair restoration expert can provide invaluable guidance tailored to your specific situation. They can help you explore various treatment options to combat hair loss and promote healthy hair growth.

Remember, knowledge is key when it comes to managing hair loss. To regain confidence and improve the appearance of your hair, take proactive steps and seek expert advice.

Please see the table below for the main types of hair loss as well as their prevention and suggested treatments.

Type of Hair Loss	Prevention	Treatment
Androgenetic Alopecia (male and female pattern baldness)	– Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair – Use mild shampoos and conditioners – Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine	– Topical minoxidil solution or foam – Oral finasteride – Microneedling for scalp – Hair transplant surgery
Telogen Effluvium	– Manage stress – Eat a balanced diet – Avoid harsh hair treatments – Get adequate sleep	– No specific treatment – Hair usually regrows on its own once the underlying cause is addressed
Alopecia Areata	– No known prevention method	– Topical or injectable corticosteroids – Topical immunotherapy – Oral immunosuppressants – Microneedling for scalp – Hair transplant surgery
Traction Alopecia	– Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair – Alternate hairstyles to reduce tension on the hair – Use gentle hair care products	– Discontinue tight hairstyles – Massage scalp to improve blood flow – Topical minoxidil solution or foam – Microneedling for scalp
Scarring Alopecia	– No known prevention method	– Treatment depends on the underlying cause – May include topical or oral corticosteroids, antibiotics, or immunosuppressants – Microneedling for scalp – Hair transplant surgery
Anagen Effluvium	– Avoid harsh hair treatments such as chemical relaxers or dyes – Avoid exposure to radiation or chemotherapy drugs	– No specific treatment – Hair usually regrows on its own once the underlying cause is addressed

Question 2: How do I know if I am getting stronger hair?

You can check on your hair’s health and strength with this method:

1. Take about 50 to 60 hairs between your fingers
2. Pull or tug at it, running your fingers through your hair.
3. Pulling out 5 to 8 strands of hair with this method is reasonable. 
4. However, if you are pulling more hairs than this, then it might show that you are losing more hair than the normal amount.

Question 3: How do I know if my Hair Loss is due to Main Pattern Baldness?

Unveiling Male Pattern Baldness: Understanding Hair Loss in Men

Male pattern baldness is when men gradually lose their hair on their head as they get older, due to changes in hormone levels. About 50 million men in the United States have this condition, and half of all men will experience it by the age of 50.

Although the balding process is gradual, it can take a significant amount of time to unfold. Identifying the initial signs of hair loss leading to baldness can be challenging but not impossible. Look out for indicators like an M-shaped or horseshoe-shaped hairline, accompanied by hair thinning and excessive shedding during showering. These signs strongly indicate male pattern baldness.

The Genetic Link: Androgenic Alopecia and Hormonal Factors

Androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is a genetic condition influenced by hormonal changes in the body. Enzymes in the body change testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes this specific type of hair loss.

DHT has the ability to shrink hair follicles, leading to the visual manifestation of male pattern baldness. Notably, this condition presents itself differently in men and women.

According to the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 57% of women and 73.5% of men aged 80 and over have mid-frontal hair loss.

Taking Charge: Addressing Male Pattern Baldness

While male pattern baldness can be a source of concern, there are ways to tackle it head-on. Consulting with a professional in hair restoration and seeking personalized solutions can make a significant difference. Different treatments like medications, hair transplants, and scalp therapies can slow down hair loss, promote hair growth, and boost confidence.

Remember, understanding the nature of male pattern baldness empowers you to take proactive steps toward managing it effectively. By exploring available options and seeking expert advice, you can embrace your hair journey with confidence.

Question 4: Is Hair Loss Permanent?

Temporary Hair Loss: Finding Hope in Transient Conditions

When it comes to hair loss, except for genetic factors, there’s good news—most cases are temporary.

Pregnancy, medication, stress, and vitamin or mineral deficiencies can cause hair problems, but these issues can be addressed to help your hair recover. Stress, or vitamin, mineral, or protein deficiencies can all cause hair problems. Addressing these issues can help your hair recover.

In such cases, the hair usually grows back relatively quickly. Excessive hair loss may result in temporary shedding that can be reversed by implementing corrective measures. This type of hair loss is known as non-scarring alopecia.

Unveiling Permanent Hair Loss: The Impact of Scarring Alopecia

Scarring alopecia is a condition that leads to permanent hair loss. It happens when scar tissue forms on the scalp. This tissue blocks the openings of hair follicles, stopping hair growth. Autoimmune disorders can trigger this condition. In these disorders, white blood cells attack hair follicle cells. This leads to scarring.

There are other factors that contribute to scarring alopecia. These include wearing tight or heavy hairstyles like ponytails, braids, and extensions. Burns, blunt head trauma, and scalp surgery can also cause it. Untreated scalp infections are another contributing factor.

Seeking Solutions: Managing Hair Loss Challenges

While temporary hair loss offers hope for regrowth, permanent hair loss requires a different approach. If you think you have scarring alopecia or any other type of permanent hair loss, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional who specializes in hair restoration. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or therapies to address the condition.

Question 5: Will colouring my hair make it fall out or cause hair loss? 

The straight answer is “Yes”. Both permanent and semi-permanent hair colour products contain harmful peroxide and ammonia. Ammonia swells and opens the hair cuticles, and peroxide gets inside it to change the hair colour. This lack of hair integrity makes the hair weaken and leads to breakage. ​Hair that is bleached or lightened takes the heaviest hit. Hair loss is mostly caused by breakage rather than permanent loss when you regularly color your hair with permanent hair dye.

(But it is possible if you make repeated drastic bleaching attacks where you place bleach on the scalp and not just on the hair.)

A study by Wellaholic on 100 women with female pattern hair loss found that scalp RF microneedling led to a notable increase in hair growth after 6 months of treatment.

Question 6: ​What are the foods that can cause hair loss? 

Nourishing Your Hair: The Role of Diet in Hair Loss

When it comes to hair loss, the connection between diet and hair health cannot be ignored. Certain food groups have the potential to trigger hair problems. To promote a healthy scalp and hair growth, it’s essential to follow a few general rules.

Rule 1: Avoiding Allergens and Inflammation

A crucial first step is to steer clear of allergens and foods that may cause allergic reactions. Certain foods can trigger an immune response that causes inflammation and reduced blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. By minimizing exposure to allergens, you can help maintain a healthier environment for hair growth.

Rule 2: Embracing Alkaline Foods and Reducing Acidity

Balancing your diet by increasing alkaline foods and reducing acidic ones can play a role in slowing down hair loss. Certain foods, such as dairy products, carbonated drinks, sugary cereals, and greasy foods, should be avoided.

These meals can cause delayed allergic reactions, contribute to scalp plaque, promote hair follicle miniaturization, raise blood sugar levels, and restrict blood flow and clog sweat pores.

Cutting down on or eliminating these foods from your diet can help slow down hair loss and encourage hair regrowth over time.

A Wholesome Approach: Nourishing Your Hair from Within

Remember, nourishing your hair goes beyond external treatments. By adopting a wholesome approach to your diet and making mindful choices, you can positively impact your hair health. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet can contribute to healthier hair growth.

Question 7: ​Does frequent combing cause hair loss? 

According to hair specialists, combing regularly is a good habit that promotes hair and scalp health. Bear in mind that you will need to not comb too hard as this may separate the hair from the roots. Hair fibre is extremely sensitive to excessive physical stress. Under such stress, the cuticles will flake and then strip away, leading to breakages and hair fall. 

Question 8: Understanding Dandruff: The Impact of Flaky Skin and Excessive Scratching on Scalp Health and Hair Loss?

Dandruff is a common condition that causes flaky skin on your scalp. This skin often falls off, leaving white flakes on your shoulders. In most cases, dandruff doesn’t directly cause hair loss. Scratching too much can damage hair follicles, promote fungi growth, cause rashes, and lead to other skin conditions associated with flaking skin.

Scratching too much can damage hair follicles, promote fungi growth, cause rashes, and lead to other skin conditions associated with flaking skin. Thus, continued and prolonged scratching weakens the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. 

Question 9: What is the best treatment for hair loss?

Power in a Bottle: The Benefits of Minoxidil for Hair Loss

Experts often suggest minoxidil, also known as Rogaine, as a popular option to fight hair loss.

This treatment serves as an excellent starting point in your battle to save your precious locks. Minoxidil is not a magic solution for growing thick hair, but it is effective in slowing down or preventing further hair loss.

Dr. Amy McMichael, a well-known dermatology expert, says that when minoxidil is used as directed, visible improvements can be seen in about six to nine months. By simply massaging the foam or solution into your scalp once or twice daily, you can maximize its effectiveness. Opt for a formula with a 5% concentration to achieve the best possible results.

Finding Hope in Minoxidil: A First Line of Defence

Minoxidil, or Rogaine, has proven to be a powerful tool in the fight against hair loss. Acting as a first line of defence, this treatment can be a game-changer for those seeking to preserve their hair. Minoxidil doesn’t make your hair grow a lot, but it can help slow down or prevent more hair loss.

By following the recommended usage and remaining patient, you can witness tangible improvements within six to nine months. Simply massage the foam or solution onto your scalp once or twice daily, and for optimal outcomes, opt for a 5 percent concentration formula.

A Regimen of Hope: Harnessing the Power of Minoxidil

Minoxidil holds the promise of a hair-loss treatment that can make a real difference. Incorporating this routine into your daily life can help you fight hair loss and regain control over your hair’s health. Remember to stay consistent and patient throughout the process, as results may take time to manifest. Embrace the power of minoxidil and witness the potential improvements in your hair’s health and vitality.

Question 10: How long does it take to see results from a hair loss solution? 

Revealing the Timeline: How Long Does Topical Hair Loss Solution Take?

When it comes to topical hair loss solutions, understanding the timeline is crucial. The effectiveness and time frame can vary depending on the stage of hair loss and the underlying cause. Since each person’s situation is unique, the duration of treatment will also differ accordingly.

The Growth Cycle: Patience and Progress

The hair growth cycle is important for knowing when you will start to see changes in your hair. It usually takes 5 to 7 months to see noticeable changes in hair growth. This is because natural hair growth phases usually take around 5 months to complete.

Wellaholic’s Microneedling for Scalp: A 12-Week Journey

For those opting for Wellaholic’s Microneedling for Scalp, the treatment typically requires weekly sessions for 12 weeks. This evidence-based approach has shown promising results, as supported by real case studies. Patience and consistency are key during this 12-week period, allowing the treatment to work its magic.

Unleashing the Power of Low Level Laser Therapy: A 16-Week Transformation

If you are considering Low Level Laser Therapy, it’s important to know that it may take a while to see visible improvements.

Based on evidence and factual case studies, significant results are typically observed after 16 weeks of treatment. This non-invasive therapy harnesses the power of laser technology to stimulate hair growth and rejuvenate the scalp.

Embrace the Journey: Transforming Your Hair Health

Remember, the journey to healthier, fuller hair requires dedication and commitment. Choose Microneedling for the scalp or Low Level Laser Therapy, stick to the recommended treatment schedule, and stay consistent with the process.

By letting the topical solutions work over the specified time, you can unlock the potential for transformation and see remarkable progress in your hair health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Understanding Hair Loss in Singapore: Expert Answers to Your Top 10 Queries on Causes, Prevention, and Effective Treatments