Dermatologist

Dr Shaun Segal

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Hair Loss Explained – Causes, Treatments & How to Regrow Healthy Hair

Personalized Skin Care by Dr Shaun Segal
Dr Shaun Segal

Introduction

Almost everyone has lost hair at some time in their lives but when it becomes too much it can be a stressful, frustrating and even an emotionally draining experience. Hair loss is usually personal, whether you can count the strands on your pillow or you can see some thinning spots on your head.

The point is, hair loss is very prevalent. Research indicates that between 50 and 80 per cent of both men and women have observable hair loss at 50 years of age. And nowadays, with the increase in stress levels, pollution and change of lifestyles, even young people in their 20s have been experiencing premature loss of hair.

The good news? The loss of hair can be treated – and in most instances, it can be reversed in case it is treated early through appropriate means. Having the right diagnosis and a specialist such as Dr. Shaun Segal as your guide, you can be in control of your hair.

Understanding Hair Loss

It is essential to first learn how hair grows before plunging into treatments.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Hair develops in natural cycle of three phases:

  • Anagen (Growth Phase): 2-7 years
  • Catagen (Transition Phase): This stage takes a few weeks
  • Telogen (Resting Phase): The human hair falls off, and new hair starts growing

It is quite normal to lose 50-100 strands per day. However, overgrowth beyond this point or lack of proper growth by new hair results in visible thinning.

Hair Loss Causes in Common

Loss of hair does not occur due to a single factor – it is normally a combination of factors.

1. Genetic Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia)

This is the most prevalent cause of loss of hair.

  • In men: Receding hairline, bald spots
  • In women: Overall thinning, especially at the crown

It is hereditary and advances with time in case it is not treated.

2. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones are very critical in hair health.

Common triggers include:

  • Thyroid disorders
  • PCOS (in women)
  • Changes due to pregnancy or postpartum

3. Stress & Lifestyle

Stress is one of the biggest modern-day contributors.

A telogen effluvium is a condition, which results in sudden shedding of hair following:

  • Emotional stress
  • Illness
  • Major life changes

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

To grow, your hair requires the proper nutrients.

The main shortcomings associated with the loss of hair:

  • Iron
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin B12
  • Protein

This is usually aggravated by crash diets and unhealthy eating.

5. Scalp Conditions

Hair growth is directly affected by a bad scalp.

  • Dandruff
  • Fungal infections
  • Psoriasis

These factors cause loss of hair roots and shedding.

6. Over-styling and Chemical damage

Frequent use of:

  • Heat styling tools
  • Hair coloring
  • Chemical treatments

…can weaken hair shafts and cause breakage.

Baldness in Men vs Women

Men

Loss of hair in men is normally more prominent and patterned:

  • Receding temples
  • Bald patches
  • Crown thinning

Women

In women the loss of hair is more diffuse:

  • Overall thinning
  • Reduced volume
  • Wider parting

Women tend to postpone treatment since it is less conspicuous, and early intervention is all the more significant.

When to Be Concerned?

Hair fall is of concern when:

  • you observe sudden and exorbitant shedding
  • Hair is becoming thin
  • Bald patches appear
  • The top of your head sticks out
  • Hair fall continues for months

It is time to see a dermatologist such as Dr. Shaun Segal to be evaluated properly.

Treatment That really Works

Now, about what is actually helpful, not myths and hacks on the internet.

1. Medical Treatments

Minoxidil

  • Enhances the circulation of blood to hair follicles
  • Promotes hair regrowth
  • Works for both men and women

Finasteride (for men)

  • Inhibits the hormone that causes hair loss
  • Slows down balding

2. PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

One of the most popular and effective treatments today.

How it works:

  • To isolate growth factors, your blood is processed
  • Installed into the head
  • Stimulates hair follicles

Benefits:

  • Natural
  • Minimal downtime
  • Perceivable progress with time

3. Hair Transplant

Ideal in severe hair loss.

  • Permanent solution
  • Natural-looking results
  • Requires expert handling

4. Nutritional Support

Sometimes, fixing internal health fixes hair.

Supplements may include:

  • Biotin
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • Multivitamins

5. Scalp Treatments

Good health on the scalp = good hair.

  • Anti-dandruff treatments
  • Medicated shampoos
  • Scalp therapies

Will Hair Grow on its own?

Yes–but to a certain degree.

When the hair follicles are not dead, they will grow back with:

  • Proper nutrition
  • Stress management
  • Medical treatments

However, in case of total inactivity of follicles (as in severe baldness) medical interventions are needed.

Easy Hair Care Ideas That Work

Basic routines can be a lot of difference.

Do’s

  • Use a mild shampoo
  • Apply oil on your head (unless contraindicated)
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Stay hydrated
  • Manage stress

Don’ts

  • Avoid tight hairstyles
  • Do not excess use of heat tools
  • Don’t overlook scalp problems
  • Do not use severe chemical treatment

Nourishment of Healthy Hair

What you eat is in your hair.

Include

  • Eggs (protein)
  • Spinach (iron)
  • Nuts (healthy fats)
  • Fruits (vitamins)
  • Fish (omega-3)

Avoid

  • Junk food
  • Excess sugar
  • Crash dieting

Myths About Hair Loss

To bust some of the myths:

Myth: Oiling prevents hair fall
Reality: It aids in scalp health but does not cure underlying causes

Myth: Hair makes it grow thicker when cut
Fact: It can only make things look good, not better

Myth: Hair fall is caused by Shampoo
Fact: You are merely noticing now hair shed already

What is the Length of Treatment?

Hair grows very slowly–then patience is the watchword.

Timeline

  • 1–2 months: Decreased hair loss
  • 3–4 months: Visible improvement
  • 6+ months: Noticeable regrowth

Consistency is everything.

The importance of Professional Treatment

Self-treatment can result in:

  • Delayed results
  • Worsening condition
  • Wasted money

An expert such as a dermatologist as Dr. Shaun Segal can:

  • Determine the precise cause
  • Recommend targeted treatment
  • Track progress effectively

Hair Restoration of the Future

New hair treatments include:

  • Growth factor therapies
  • Stem cell research
  • Advanced PRP techniques
  • Personalized treatment plans

These new inventions are rendering hair growth more effective than ever.

Conclusion

The loss of hair may be daunting–but you need not take it. Through proper knowledge, early intervention and professional advice, you can manage hair fall and even lose hair.

The trick is to act promptly, remain steady, and not to guess.