Hair loss. Alopecia
Treatment of hair loss is a process that at least 30% of people go through during their lifetime. Hair loss or alopecia is any condition characterized by hair loss. It can be physiological or pathological. Physiological hair loss is the daily shedding of hair, which is commonly referred to as the loss of 30-60 hairs per day. Diffuse hair loss can occur in various disease states, in which up to 300 scalp hairs can fall out on a daily basis.
The hair on our body goes through a complex cycle that can be summarized in 3 main phases. Disturbance in the duration of these phases is the main cause of hair loss. Hair growth is affected by hormones, growth factors, medications, stress, environmental factors, and more.
Anagen – growth phase lasting between 3 and 6 years. During this period, intensive division of hair follicle cells is observed, the hair increases in growth and thickness.
Catagen – regression phase, the duration of which is 1-2 weeks. It is the complete opposite of anagen. Cell division stops, hair thins and falls out.
Telogen – this is a period of rest, which most often precedes a new cycle of intense hair growth.
Vitamins for hair loss
For normal hair growth, it is extremely important to have all the necessary vitamins and minerals. They are best obtained and absorbed through natural nutrition, but can also be taken in the form of various nutritional supplements. From all of the hair vitamins the most important are vitamin A, group B, E and F. They stimulate the metabolism, increase the strength and resistance of the hair, participate in the regulation of the function of the sebaceous glands. To the most important mineral elements include Zinc, Iron and Selenium, which have a strengthening effect on the hair and serve as natural antioxidants.
Causes of hair loss
Causes for hair loss can be many and varied - hormonal disorders, medication intake, infections, unbalanced nutrition, stress and others. Now we will present to you the most common diseases that are characterized by diffuse hair loss.
Androgen alopecia in men – the most common disease affecting the scalp, affecting up to 50% of men. It is due to 2 main factors – genetic predisposition and androgens. Hair loss begins around the 30th birthday, affecting the crown area. The hair on the back of the head is not affected.
Androgen alopecia in women - it is due to the same factors as in men - heredity and the action of androgens. It affects about 10% of women, appearing most often after menopause. It is manifested by thinning of the hair and its loss, affecting the parietal area.
Telogen effluvium – more common in women and one of the most common causes of hair loss treatment. It is due to a shortening of the anagen phase at the expense of telogen. It is characterized by increased shedding of scalp hair on a daily basis. This includes hair loss after pregnancy and menopause. The disease is often self-limiting and completely reversible, and once the cause is discovered and removed, hair regrows smoothly.
Hair loss after Covid-19 – up to 30% of women who have experienced an infection with Covid-19 need hair loss treatment. This type of alopecia is temporary and completely reversible. With proper therapy, rapid growth of new hair occurs.
Hair loss caused by scalp infection – Most often it concerns a fungal, and less often a bacterial infection. Culture is done to detect the causative agent and specific treatment is prescribed.
Diagnosis
To clarify the causes of hair loss, the anamnesis and some additional tests are important. From the anamnesis, the beginning of the hair loss, its intensity, whether there is seasonality and others are important. The structure of the hair is examined - its thickness, whether it falls out completely or breaks at its base. A dermatoscope is used for this purpose. Of the laboratory tests, the concentration of various vitamins and minerals, as well as the level of some hormones, is most often required. Sometimes limited hair loss can be due to a localized infectious process, which a panoramic photo of the teeth or a consultation with an ENT to rule out a chronic infection.
Treatment of hair loss
Treatment of hair loss is a long process that requires proper diagnosis and patience. Fortunately, in very rare cases, hair loss is an irreversible process. With correct and timely therapy, hair loss stops and hair is slowly restored. Visible results are available after about two months. Treatment is often complex and involves combining 2 or more methods.
Minerals and vitamins for hair loss – are capsules containing the essential nutrients for hair growth. They are not a substitute for a varied and complete diet, but a supplement to it. Depending on their type, they are taken between 1 and 3 times a day for a period of several months.
Hair ampoules - are used externally, for rubbing or in the form of a mask. They heal and strengthen the hair. It is good to combine their application with a light massage, because this stimulates blood flow and increases their absorption.
Mesotherapy for hair growth – is a procedure in which, with the help of a fine needle, multiple punctures are made on the scalp and minerals and vitamins are injected for hair loss, which are absorbed at a very high rate. Several procedures are applied at intervals of 2-3 weeks. Read more about mesotherapy for hair.
Hair care – pulling, braiding, tying a tail, etc. have a mechanical effect, which can lead to additional losses.
Treatment of hair loss at a dermatologist in Sofia
Alopecia is a problem that requires treatment by a dermatologist. In Dr. Stavrov Aesthetics we offer diagnostic and treatment of various skin and venereal diseases. Our address is the city of Sofia, g.k. Manastirski livadi - west, Prof. Velizar Velkov St. 36 (behind Pulse fitness center). See how to find us on the contact page.
Hair loss treatment - reviews
After I recovered from Covid, diffuse hair loss started. I read a lot of opinions on the Internet and made an appointment to see an rpi dermatologist. The combination of capsules and mesotherapy led to rapid hair recovery.
Tsveti, 46, Sofia
I have been having problems with hair loss for a long time. I've tried everything, but I get the best results and hair thickening after taking the listed supplements. Thanks.
Denitsa, 36, Sofia
FAQ
What kind of doctor do you see for hair loss?
The science that studies the structure and diseases of hair is called trichology and is a branch of dermatology. Therefore, it is most appropriate for hair problems to visit a dermatologist. At his discretion, he can appoint a consultation with another specialist.
What tests are done for hair loss?
In the course of diagnosing the different types of alopecia, a detailed history is taken, and certain tests may be ordered at the discretion of your doctor. Such are a complete blood count, serum level of some vitamins and minerals, examination of some hormones, a panoramic photo of the teeth, etc.
What are the causes of hair loss?
The reasons can be very diverse - seasonal, stress, infection, nutritional and hormonal disorders, hair loss after pregnancy and during menopause.