Normal Hair Loss - New Hair Loss Treatment by Shampoos and Medicines

What is Hair Loss?

Among adults, the most common kind of hair loss is called androgenetic alopecia an-dro-gen-e-tik al-o-peash-a, otherwise known as male- and female-pattern hair loss. It is char acterized by large, normal-length hairs becoming smaller, very fine, and almost microscopic. After a number of years, these tiny hairs may fall out, even to the point of permanent loss. Androgenetic alopecia is a genetic problem, and the testosterone family of hormones, present in both men and women, is thought to playa major role in its cause. Androgenetic alopecia is initiated by an abundance of the testosterone derivative dihydrotestosterone die-hie-dro-testos-ter-own . Although they are chemical cousins, testosterone and dihydrotestosterone have different functions in the body, and only dihydrotestosterone promotes androgenetic alopecia.

Men are visibly more affected than women by androgenetic alopecia because their hair loss is more noticeable on the top of their heads and the sides of the frontal region, known as "widow's peaks." In women, a "widened part" occurs centrally on the scalp, but the hairline on the front does not recede and the hair at the forehead line remains intact. Many treatments are available today to help lessen androgenetic alopecia. These include nonprescription topical solutions, prescription pills, cosmetic procedures such as hair weaves, and surgical treatments, such as hair transplants. The most commonly used over-the-counter topical medication is minoxidil, available in 2 and 5 percent solutions.

What are the treatment options for Hair Loss?

Although it is not proven, minoxidil is thought to stimulate hair growth by altering chemical transport around- the hair cells, thereby causing hair cells to proliferate. Studies show that minoxidil can generate some hair growth (which seems to reach its maximum potential after six months of use); however, it seems to be more effective on women than on men. Overall, the percentage of people who respond to minoxidil is limited. The most common prescription men use to restore hair is Propecia pills. The introduction of Propecia represents a significant advance in the treatment of androgenetic hair loss in men. And, for the first time, scientists have marketed a pill that attacks hair loss at its known chemical origin. Propecia prevents dihydrotestosterone from signaling the hair follicles to shrivel up. Propecia seems to work only on the hormonal influences at the top of the scalp; other hairs 'on the sides of the scalp, face, and body are unaffected by it. In clinical trials, a definite increase in hair growth starts after six months and continues to grow for at least two more years. Propecia is for men of all ages and for women who no longer want to have children. Because it blocks the male hormone dihydrotestosterone, it is possible that boys born to women who are taking Propecia would be feminized.

There are other medicines like Propecia that are currently being tested by scientists and will probably be available shortly. Spironolactone is a pill often used by women with androgenetic alopecia. Spironolactone is a diuretic that in lower doses has the effect of blocking dihydrotestosterone. Hair regrowth with spironolactone is a slow process, as it takes at least six to twelve months to take effect. Spironolactone cannot be given to men because it may stimulate breast enlargement. Spironolactone is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for female hair loss, and thus its use by dermatologists is called "off label" Discuss this medicine carefully with a dermatologist before starting therapy. At salons and specialized centers, hair weaves and additions are often performed to cover up hair loss. Both real and synthetic hair can be attached firmly to the scalp. Some methods of attachment include weaving the new hair with existing hair, applying adhesives, suturing, and the use of hair clips. Most of these attachments can be well hidden. Hair transplantation is performed by specialized dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Hairs from the sides of the scalp are grafted in small amounts at a time and placed where you want hair to grow. Hair transplantation is a slow process, and usually requires multiple visits to your physician. Transplanted hair may not look natural for several months while it grows out, and surgical touch-ups are often necessary. In general, men over fifty with lighter-colored hair and skin and a more advanced state of baldness gain the most from hair transplantation. Although rare, risks include scarring, formation of tiny skin cysts, and gel-like blood deposits under the scalp. A temporary numb feeling and infection may also occur in the areas treated.

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