Alopecia, or the excessive and abnormal loss of healthy hair, is a concern not only experienced by men but by a growing number of women. Along with genetics and traumatic situations, hair thinning and loss can be caused by hormonal fluctuations, excessive physical force or improper nutrition. While these factors can affect both men and women, hair thinning and loss usually occurs for:

Men

The most common pattern of hair loss is characterized by a thinning crown or receding hairline. Hair loss occurs due to the presence of a derivative or by-product of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  This hormone can shrink the hair follicles and has a greater effect in the mid-anterior scalp and temples. Some types of male hair loss are:

·    Acute diffuse alopecia – occurs from physical or psychological factors such as hormones, nutritional deficiencies or medications.

·    Chronic Diffuse Alopecia – can occur due to nutritional, metabolic or endocrine issues.

·    Androgenetic Alopecia – occurs due to genetic sensitivity to male hormones. This rarely affects women.

Women

Most cases of hair thinning and loss are the result of hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy, childbirth or using some methods of birth control. Women can also experience:

·    Anagen effluvium – occurs due to chemotherapy. The matrix of the hair becomes damaged and, as a result, the hair shaft will narrow, eventually fracturing.

·    Traction alopecia – caused by severe hairstyles, such as too-tight ponytails, braiding, cornrows or frequent use of extensions. These procedures pull at hair over time but loss can be prevented if recognized and treated early.

If detected early enough, men and women can minimize or even prevent hair thinning or loss by using several over-the-counter treatments such as:

·    Daily vitamin supplement – look for ones labeled especially for hair and/or nails and are fortified with Vitamin B3 (niacin), which protects the hair shaft, and antioxidants, to ward off damage from free radicals.

·    A shampoo labeled “revitalizing/fortifying/energizing” – this will nourish and protect existing hair strands while removing oils that can block the follicle and prevent re-growth.

·    A once-a-week, leave-in scalp treatment made with essential oils – oils such as lavender and orange will relax and unblock hair follicles to promote growth, regulate oil production and maintain cell repair.

As with any treatment, results will vary and may to need to be continued on a constant basis. Also, allow approximately 6-8 weeks before seeing results.

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