What is hair loss?
Everyone sheds about 50-100 strands of hair a day, which is perfectly normal. However, if hair starts falling out in patches or in greater numbers than usual, you may be experiencing hair loss. When the balance between shedding and hair growth is disrupted, you may be losing more hair than you can grow.
The medical term for hair loss is “alopecia”. Hair loss can affect almost everyone at some point in their lives.
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss can be triggered by stress, poor nutrition, seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm infections, psoriasis, immunological disorders, and hormone changes e.g., pregnancy, male-pattern baldness.
Temporary or permanent hair loss can be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid problems.
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What are the risk factors for hair loss?
There are many factors that can increase the risk of having hair loss, such as:
- A family history
- Certain medical conditions like diabetes or lupus
- Stress
- Significant weight loss
- Poor nutrition
- Age
What are the symptoms of hair loss?
This is acommon symptom of hair loss and can appear as a receding hairline or broadening of the parting in the hair.
What are the types of hair loss?
There are many types of hair loss that occur for different reasons. The root cause of hair loss must be tackled to effectively cure hair loss. Let us understand some of the different forms of hair loss out there.
This is the most common type of hair loss caused by genetics. It is also known as male-pattern hair loss in men or female-pattern hair loss in women. In men, the hairline recedes to form a characteristic “M” shape. For women, the hair thins over the top of the head and on the sides.
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What can I do to prevent hair loss?
Most hair loss conditions are caused by genetics and are hence unpreventable. However, other types of hair loss may be prevented with the following measures:
- Being gentle with your hair
- Stopping medications or supplements that could be causing your hair loss
- Avoiding too much sun
- Quitting smoking
- Cooling cap for those undergoing chemotherapy
When do I need to see a doctor for hair loss?
You may need to see a doctor if your hair loss is extensive and persistent. If you notice sudden patchy hair loss when combing or washing your hair, seek help from your doctor. Sudden hair loss can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs treatment. Seek help early to prevent permanent hair loss or worsening of your condition.
Hair Loss Treatment in Singapore by Harmony Aesthetics
Hair loss may be transient and reversible without any intervention needed in some cases (e.g., stress, pregnancy), although supportive treatment like taking oral hair supplements can help accelerate hair regrowth. Any inflammatory scalp condition (e.g., seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm infections, psoriasis) will however require treatment with medicated shampoos and sprays.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections are recommended for hair growth stimulation in rare cases of alopecia areata.
Whatever your hair concerns, rest assured that you will be given our best effort and support in restoring your mane of confidence.