If you are balding or thinning, it may be time to see a hair loss dermatologist in Reston. When it comes to hair loss, you’re not alone. Over 55 million Americans suffer from some degree of hair loss. While many ignore the shedding, a visit to your dermatologist could prove beneficial.
When is Hair Loss Abnormal?
We all lose hair, it’s part of life. On average, we lose 50-100 hairs each day. That sounds like a lot, but there are over 100,000 strands of hair, and many more hair follicles. So, normal daily hair loss is hardly noticeable. When thinning or balding becomes noticeable, then we know something is wrong.
Hair Loss in Men
While men and women alike suffer from hair loss, men are more likely to suffer androgenetic alopecia, AKA male pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is mostly genetic and occurs in half of men over the age of 40. Other reasons for hair loss in men include:
Hormones– hormone disorders or reduced testosterone can lead to thinning hair or speed up receding hairlines. Other lifestyle diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can also change hormones and impact hair growth.
Stress– stress raises cortisol levels which can trigger hair loss.
Medications– certain medications can lead to hair loss.
Scarring alopecia– this condition refers to a collection of inflammatory conditions that destroy hair follicles. If this is left untreated, it leads to irreversible hair loss.
Hair Loss in Women
While its not talked about nearly as much as male hair loss, many women experience thinning and bald spots. When it occurs, it can have a significant impact on self-esteem. Some of the common reasons women experience hair loss include:
Genetics– androgenetic alopecia also impacts women. They are more likely to experience baldness at the center of the scalp.
Stress– stress can cause shedding and thinning.
Hormones– menopause, health conditions and more can lead to hormone imbalances that impact hair growth and thickness.
Pregnancy– during pregnancy, some women have more hair follicles in the resting phase. This can make hair shed more or appear thinner.
Hairstyles– certain tight hairstyles, relaxers, or constant heat can lead to traction alopecia or CCCA.
Vitamin deficiencies– Iron deficiency or conditions like anemia reduce the nutrients going to the hair follicles, which increases the likelihood of hair loss.
Scarring alopecia– women can also suffer from this condition.
Top Treatments for Hair Loss
There are many options for treating hair loss. These include things like:
Medications
Topical medications or oral medications may be used to treat hair loss.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid ointment sand injections can help reduce inflammation and improve hair growth.
Laser Treatments
Low level light therapy can effectively stimulate growth.
PRP/PRF Therapy
PRP or PRF are great options for stimulating hair growth and thickness.
Lifestyle Changes for Hair Loss
There are certain lifestyle changes that can improve your hair loss and restore hair growth. Your dermatologist can help you identify these. Some of these changes include:
Change your hairstyle. If you frequently wear tight hair styles or apply heat to your hair, you should consider changing things up.
Review the products you are using. Products, heat, and relaxers can lead to long-term damage and slow down new hair growth.
Reduce stress. Stress can cause hair loss so looking for ways to reduce your stress levels or remove stressful situations can help.
Diet changes. Hair loss can be related to your diet. If your diet lacks necessary vitamins and minerals, you should make some changes. Add iron and zinc to your diet. Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet of leafy greens, whole grains, and vegetables. This improves your overall health and supports other hair loss treatments.
How Can a Hair Loss Dermatologist in Reston Help?
If you are facing unexplained hair loss or thinning, you should schedule an appointment with a hair loss dermatologist in Reston. Your dermatologist can perform an exam, talk about your medical and family history, and discuss treatment plans with you that may be able to restore hair growth. If you’re ready to fight back against hair loss, schedule a consultation with Reston Dermatology + Cosmetic Center today!