Hair loss affects many of us at some point in our lives. Recognising the early signs can be crucial in addressing the issue promptly and effectively. Here’s what to look out for when it comes to hair loss.

Thinning on Top

One of the most common signs of hair loss is thinning of hair on the top of the head. For men, this often begins with a receding hairline or a thinning spot that grows over time. Women might notice a broadening of the part in their hair. It can be subtle at first but becomes more noticeable as time goes on.

Gradual Hairline Recession

Particularly for men, a hairline that slowly moves backward, forming an “M” shape, is a common indicator of male pattern hair loss. Observing changes in your hairline over time can help you identify hair loss early.

Hair Clumps in Your Brush or Shower

Finding a few strands of hair in your brush or shower isn’t unusual, but if you start noticing large clumps regularly, it could be a sign of hair loss.

Thinning Hair Across the Scalp

Unlike the localised hair loss or receding hairline, some people might experience a uniform thinning across their entire scalp. This can be harder to spot immediately, as it’s more about a decrease in volume rather than bald spots.

Patchy or Circular Bald Spots

Some individuals may experience smooth, coin-sized patches of hair loss. This type of hair loss, known as alopecia areata, can occur on the scalp, beard, and eyebrows. It’s often accompanied by an uncomfortable sensation before the hair falls out.

Sudden Loosening of Hair

A physical or emotional shock can lead to hair thinning. You might notice handfuls of hair coming out when combing or washing your hair or even after gentle tugging. This type of hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning but is temporary.

Scaling Patches That Spread Over the Scalp

This can be a sign of a skin condition and may be accompanied by broken hair, redness, swelling, and at times, oozing.

What Next?

If you’re noticing signs of hair loss, it can be a cause for panic. Yet, many types of hair loss can be treatable, and getting ahead of the problem can make all the difference. Start by reaching out to a healthcare professional or a trichologist. They can offer an understanding as to why you are experiencing this type of hair loss, provide valuable advice, and guide you toward the best treatment options tailored to your situation.

Remember, hair loss is more common than you might think, and you’re not alone. With the right care and attention, you may be able to manage the condition and keep your hair health on track.

Hair is more than just a feature, it can feel part of our identity. But what happens if our hair starts thinning? It’s something many face, so let’s take a look at how our hair styles could be affecting our hair and scalp health.

Understanding Hair Loss

It’s a natural part of life for many, influenced by genetics, health, lifestyle choices and many other factors. Recognising the signs early can lead to effective management and treatment options. Keep an eye out for unusual shedding, thinning patches, or a receding hairline.

Hairstyles: Do’s and Don’ts

Choosing the right hairstyle can either protect your hair or put it at risk. Here’s a rundown of the do’s and don’ts:

Do’s:

·       Embrace Loose Styles: Think soft waves or a casual up-do. These styles reduce tension on your hair follicles, helping to prevent breakage and hair loss. The hair thinning typically seen if you have tight hairstyles, tends to be around the hair line.

·       Hydration: Before washing your hair, consider applying a lightweight oil to the mids and ends of your hair to help protect your strands!

Don’ts:

·       Tight Hairstyles: Tight ponytails, buns, and braids can lead to traction alopecia, a type of hair loss caused by pulling on the hair. The hair thinning is typically seen around the front of the hair line. Due to the tension from the hair style, it can cause breakage and even damage the hair follicles over time.

·       Harsh Treatments: Regular use of heat styling tools, bleach, and harsh chemicals can weaken your hair, leading to breakage and loss.

Maintaining healthy hair goes beyond the surface. Here are a few tips to help nurture your hair from the inside out:

·       Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can support hair health.

·       Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is key to staying hydrated.

·       Manage Stress: High stress levels can lead to hair loss. Find stress management techniques that work for you.

·       In-clinic treatments: There are a range of treatments available to help support the health of your scalp and hair. It is best to have a consultation prior to treatment to ensure you understand the treatment options available, the benefits of the treatment and how they will help support your hair growth.

Seeking Professional Advice

If you’re experiencing hair loss, it may be best to speak to a professional, such as a trichologist. When consulting with a specialist in hair and scalp health, they may be able to offer tailored advice and treatment options.

Am I experiencing telogen effluvium? Hair loss can be a distressing experience, leaving many to wonder about its cause. One common but often misunderstood condition is telogen effluvium. This blog aims to break down the key signs of telogen effluvium.

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Hair goes through cycles, including a growth phase, a resting phase, and a shedding phase. Telogen effluvium happens when more hairs than usual enter the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss.

Spotting the Signs:

·       Increased Shedding: The most obvious sign is finding more hair than usual on your pillow, in your hairbrush, or down the shower drain. While it’s normal to lose up to 100 hairs a day, telogen effluvium can significantly increase this number.

·       Overall Thinning: Rather than bald patches, telogen effluvium usually causes a uniform thinning of hair across the scalp. This can be more noticeable in some areas, but you won’t see bald spots.

·       More Hair in Your Hands: When washing or running your fingers through your hair, you might notice more strands coming out than usual. This is a key indicator that your hair might be in the telogen phase more than it should be and that it is actively shedding.

·       A Wider Part: For many, the part in their hair may start to appear wider due to the overall thinning effect, making more of the scalp visible. This sign can also be linked to androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss), which is a progressive hair loss condition. Therefore, it would be beneficial to see a trichologist to gain a better understanding of the hair loss you are experiencing.

·       Short New Growth: Over time, you might notice short, new hairs sprouting up around your hairline. This is a sign that your hair is returning back to its normal cycle of growth and shedding.

Why Does It Happen?

Telogen effluvium can be triggered by various factors, including stress, illness, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. Essentially, any shock to your system can push more hairs into the telogen phase.

What Next?

If you’re noticing these signs, you may be experiencing telogen effluvium. It is best to contact a trichologist to discuss your concerns and experience, so that you can gain a better understanding of the hair loss you are experiencing. Telogen effluvium is often temporary, and your hair can return to its normal cycle with time or once the underlying cause is addressed. However, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional to rule out other conditions and find the best course of action.

Understanding your body’s signals is crucial in addressing any health concerns. If you’re experiencing signs of telogen effluvium, remember, it’s a common issue that many people face, and in most cases, it’s reversible. Your hair’s health can tell you a lot about your overall well-being, so it’s important to listen to what it’s trying to say.

Male pattern hair loss is a type of hair loss that many men encounter, which often leaves individuals searching for answers and solutions. Let’s take a look at the causes of this condition.

The Role of Genetics:

The main factor of male pattern hair loss is genetics. It’s a hereditary condition, meaning if your parents, grandparents, or any close relatives have experienced hair loss, the chances are higher that you might too. Genetics influence how sensitive your hair follicles are to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

The Hormone DHT:

DHT plays a significant role in male pattern hair loss. It’s derived from testosterone, a hormone that’s present in everyone but in higher amounts in men. When testosterone converts into DHT, it can attach to hair follicles, causing them to shrink over time. This process leads to miniaturisation (thinner hair) and, eventually, the cessation of hair growth.

The Pattern Emerges:

Male pattern hair loss doesn’t happen all at once or in random patches. Instead, it follows a specific pattern, usually starting at the temples or the crown of the head. Over time, the hairline recedes to form a characteristic “M” shape. The hair at the top of the head also becomes thinner, leading to partial or complete hair loss.

Lifestyle and Health:

Lifestyle factors and overall health can influence the extent and rate of hair loss. Stress, diet, and certain health conditions can contribute to or exacerbate hair loss. However, these factors are more about the condition’s severity rather than its root cause.

In Conclusion, male pattern hair loss stems from a mix of genetics and hormones. It’s a natural condition that affects many men. Understanding its causes helps in managing expectations and exploring treatment options. From medication to surgical options like hair transplants, there are a range of treatment options that can help manage hair loss. Remember, the journey of dealing with hair loss is personal, and the best approach is the one that aligns with your comfort and preferences.