What is hair loss?
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common condition that can affect both men and women. It is characterized by a loss of hair from the scalp or other areas of the body.
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, certain medications, medical conditions, and hormonal changes. In most cases, hair loss is temporary and can be treated with medications or other treatments. However, in some cases, hair loss can be permanent.
It is important to talk to a doctor if you are experiencing hair loss, as they can help determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
Hair loss and genetics
Hair loss is often caused by a combination of genetics and other factors. The most common type of hair loss, known as male or female pattern baldness, is largely determined by genetics.
People with a family history of baldness are more likely to develop this condition. However, other factors can also play a role in hair loss, including hormonal changes, certain medical conditions, and certain medications. In some cases, hair loss can be reversible, while in others it may be permanent.
It’s important to talk to a doctor if you’re experiencing hair loss, as they can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness is a common type of hair loss that affects men. It is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones. In men with male pattern baldness, the hair typically recedes at the temples and the top of the head, forming a characteristic “M” shape.
The hair may also thin over the entire scalp, leading to a loss of hair density. Male pattern baldness is a progressive condition, meaning it typically gets worse over time.
It is usually treated with medications or topical treatments, but in some cases, a hair transplant may be necessary. It is important to talk to a doctor if you are experiencing hair loss, as they can help determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. It is an autoimmune disorder, which means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. In the case of alopecia areata, the immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The condition can affect people of any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 15 and 29. Alopecia areata is not contagious and it is not caused by any known environmental factors.
There is no cure for the condition, but there are treatments that can help slow or stop hair loss and potentially regrow lost hair. These treatments include medications, corticosteroid injections, and light therapy.
Oral Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a medication that is commonly used to treat hair loss. It is available over-the-counter in the form of a topical solution or foam, and it is applied directly to the scalp.
Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can help stimulate hair growth. It is most effective in treating hair loss at the crown of the head and is typically used in the treatment of male pattern baldness.
Minoxidil is not a cure for hair loss, and it needs to be used continuously in order to maintain any benefits. It is also important to note that minoxidil can cause side effects, such as dryness, itching, and redness of the scalp. It is important to talk to a doctor before using minoxidil.
We understand that many of our patients are regularly using medications for hair loss requiring repeat private prescriptions. We are able to offer this service through our partner pharmacy via which the medication will be delivered directly to you.
DHT blocking
DHT blocking is a term that is used to describe the use of medications or other treatments to block the production or action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that is thought to play a role in hair loss.
DHT is a byproduct of the hormone testosterone, and it is believed to affect hair growth by attaching to receptors on hair follicles and causing them to shrink. This can lead to hair thinning and eventually hair loss.
DHT blockers are commonly used in the treatment of male pattern baldness and other forms of hair loss. They can be taken orally or applied topically, and they work by preventing DHT from attaching to hair follicles. In some cases, DHT blockers can help slow or stop hair loss and even promote new hair growth.
It is important to talk to a doctor if you are considering using DHT blockers, as they can help determine the best approach for your specific needs.
