Hair Loss Treatment
What is hair loss?
Alopecia, or hair loss, is often a gradual process which starts with the hair starting to thin. In other cases, it may be sudden, with lumps of hair falling out without warning. It can occur in men, women, and even children, and can manifest anywhere on the body and to different degrees of severity. Hair loss can be treated by a dermatologist.
What are the different types of hair loss?
There are a number of different types of hair loss, and many are linked to medical conditions or negative lifestyle aspects. Many are treatable and reversible, while others are more complicated to diagnose and manage.
Your dermatologist will look closely at all aspects of your lifestyle and health to accurately diagnose your particular form of hair loss, and then establish a personalised treatment plan to remedy it.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of different factors such as:
- Illness or disease
- Stress
- Dieting and poor nutrition
- Medicine or medical treatment (such as chemotherapy)
- Giving birth
- Menopause
- Hair disorders or hereditary conditions
- Damage by over-use of hair products and treatments
Hair loss can be an indicator of another underlying health issue. In these cases, by diagnosing and treating the related medical condition, the hair loss stops. If hair loss is left undiagnosed and untreated, it may have a psychological impact on the sufferer. It is therefore helpful to consult a specialist for medical advice.
Enquire with our dermatologists.Did you know?
Androgenetic Alopecia, also known as pattern hair loss, is commonly experienced by Asian men and women. Interestingly, its prevalence is greater in Asia than in Europe.¹
What are the possible complications of hair loss?
Hair loss can be emotionally distressing and may lead to anxiety and even depression. A person’s self-confidence is closely linked to their appearance, and hair loss can make them feel exposed and vulnerable.
Make an enquiry with a dermatologist online.When should I see a specialist for hair loss?
It is recommended to consult a dermatologist about your hair loss if it is sudden and rapid, or if it is accompanied by a rash or inflammation of the scalp. If you think it is linked to a medication, it is also advisable to make an appointment with your dermatologist. A specialist can provide immediate diagnosis and treatment.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Have all relevant information ready to share with your dermatologist. If your condition is linked to a medicine, bring it with you. Try to establish a timeline regarding the onset of your hair loss, and be prepared to answer detailed questions on your personal circumstances.
How do specialists diagnose hair loss?
To successfully diagnose hair loss, dermatologists need to ask questions to establish when hair loss commenced and if it has been a gradual or sudden process. Accurate information needs to be collated regarding allergies, medication, diet, nutrition, weight loss, any current anxieties or stress, general state of health, and medical history. Your dermatologist will then examine your scalp and your hair and perhaps take a blood test and a small biopsy of your scalp to study.
What treatments are available for hair loss?
As in the case of most medical conditions, early intervention is recommended. Sometimes the treatment consists of altering your lifestyle and paying greater attention to your health and well-being. If this is not sufficient, there are a number of different available treatments including topical treatments, clinically proven drugs, and hormones. Your treatment plan may include a combination of these options.
Request an appointment with a dermatologist today.[1] Lee W-S, Lee H-J. Characteristics of Androgenetic Alopecia in Asian. Annals of Dermatology. 2012;24(3):243-252. doi:10.5021/ad.2012.24.3.243.
