Clarifying Myths & Nomenclature in Hair Loss

Improper hair care combined with skin conditions & diseases can result in excessive and rapid hairloss. With the correct diagnosis, hairloss in most people can be treated. Let's look at how we go about treating hairloss.

Diagnosing cases of hair loss

Step 1: We evaluate a patient’s hair problem by asking questions about diet, medications including vitamins and health food taken in the last six months, family history of hairloss, recent illness and hair care habits. This also includes hormonal effects in women about menstrual cycles, pregnancies, and menopause.

Step 2: After examining the scalp and hair, we also check a few hairs under the microscope. Trichoscan and trichogram are used to assess the density, type of units, weakness in the roots, assess the number of miniature hairs and response to treatment. It is a simple test to detect miniaturisation, and thereby estimate whether there is likely possibility of permanent baldness. It is a small 10-minute procedure.In rare cases, blood tests or a scalp biopsy may be required for an accurate diagnosis. It's important to find the cause & type of hairloss and whether or not the problem will respond to medical treatment.

Temporary hairloss

Emotional turmoil, medications, skin conditions, surgery, childbirth, poor nutrition, and illnesses can cause hair follicles to enter the telogen phase prematurely, resulting in increased shedding which presents itself as temporary diffuse thinning.

There are several other causes for hair thinning, your dermatologists can help you understand thee in detail.

Localised hairloss

Alopecia Areata is a genetic, auto-immune disease that classifies as the non-scarring type of localised hairloss. It presents with sudden onset of round patches of hairloss associated with normal skin. This is usually treated with cortico-steroids.

Lupus and Lichen Planus, or local radiation therapy on the other hand can cause localised hairloss of the scarring type.

Traction Alopecia occurs with constant tugging on the hair, in some beauty treatments. Also, dermatologists advice on not tying hair too tight as it can cause tractional alopecia.

Some points to remember

• Dandruff does not cause hairloss.
• Helmet does not cause hairloss.
• Shampooing/Oiling hair does not cause hairloss.
• Smoking can increase hairloss due to decreased blood flow to the hair roots.
• Shaving head does not promote hair growth.
• Loosing 50 hair a day is very common. Do not fret.
• Foods rich in sprouts, green leafy vegetables, salads, fresh fruits, pulses and plenty of water all help with healthy & glowing hair.

However, the most important aspect to understand is to contact your doctor and get recommendation for a proficient dermatologist and get treated properly.

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