Heredity plays major factor

Hair loss comes in many forms and affects a large percentage of the population. We all know someone with thinning or balding hair, male and female. It is normal to lose about 50-100 hairs per day and it is also normal for hair to grow at a slower rate as you age.

The most common type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, (male or female pattern baldness). It is hereditary and can start as early as teen years in some patients. Many people believe it comes from your mother’s side, but in actuality it can come from either parent. Unfortunately, there is no cure but there are treatments. In males, topical minoxidil (Rogaine) and oral finasteride (Propecia) are often used together to stop the hair from falling out and to get hair to grow. Topical minoxidil is available without a prescription, but you must see your doctor to get a prescription for finasteride. When traditional treatments are not effective, many patients will seek a consultation with a doctor who performs hair transplants.

In women who have early female pattern baldness topical minoxidil is still an option but finasteride is not. Oral prescription spironolactone can be tried. Other oral pills such as Biotin, which is the hair and nail vitamin, can be started to thicken and strengthen the hair. Some at-home laser light treatments have shown some benefit in patients, but more research is needed in the area.

In some cases hair loss is not just age or heredity and can be caused by a medical problem. Termed “telogen effluvium,” it can be caused by pregnancy, oral contraception, other oral medications, thyroid disease, stress, anemia, a major illness or surgery. Hair begins to shed at a more rapid rate and will come out in clumps and make the hair noticeably thinner. This type of hair loss generally comes back after the cause is identified and changes are made.

Alopecia areata is a special type of hair loss where patients lose hair in smooth, round patches. It is an autoimmune disease and can be mild to severe. It is treated most commonly with topical steroids and steroids injected directly into the area. It can be seen in patients with other autoimmune conditions. With this, early and aggressive treatment is best.

A common form of hair loss in children is tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), which is a fungal infection. If scabs or crust is seen in the scalp followed by hair loss it is important to see the doctor because this type of hair loss is easily treated with an oral anti-fungal pill.

There are many rare forms of hair loss and a dermatologist can perform a biopsy or hair mount test to make the diagnosis if necessary. A dermatologist can also order lab work, go over your medical history and medications to help determine which type of hair loss you are experiencing.

It is important to take care of your hair and not over-process it with harsh chemicals or straighteners. It is also necessary to eat a diet with enough protein in it. Thickening and protein shampoo may thicken your hair and improve the appearance of your hair. These are easy ways to help your hair health.

Hair loss can be very distressing.

We all know what it feels like to be unhappy with something about your appearance. If you or someone you know is experiencing new or excessive hair loss, see a dermatologist.

Dr. Sarah Glorioso is a partner with Dr. Josephine Futrell at Ark-La-Tex Dermatology with clinics in Shreveport and Bossier City and is part of the Willis-Knighton Physician Network.