How to Talk to Your Partner About Hair Loss

Happy couple on their hair regrowth journey with happy head.

Talking to your partner about hair loss can be tricky. What are you supposed to say? “Have you noticed that your hairline is receding?” After all, your significant other may be embarrassed, or be ignoring the issue. They may also fall into the category of people who genuinely don’t care about their appearances. Not to mention that you don’t accidentally want your partner to question whether or not you find them attractive. Aargh. Maybe you’re better off not saying anything?

Well, that depends on your approach. If you are supportive, raising the topic can be helpful. You can help your partner feel better, and you can also help give him or her the confidence needed to get treatment. Remember, it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Let’s talk about the best way to start the discussion.  

Remember that Timing is Everything

Has your partner said anything about their hair loss? Made any jokes? If so, he or she is opening the floor to a conversation. Be careful not to raise the topic out of the blue or force the conversation. Doing so may make your partner feel awkward.  You want to calm any insecurities rather than fuel them. What if they don’t give you an in? They just may not be ready to talk about it. Leave the topic alone for now and see if it comes up later.  

Show Empathy

If you and your partner do discuss their hair loss, keep in mind that your partner may be feeling a whole array of emotions.  Getting older, no longer being desirable, and fear of losing control over one’s body can go hand-in-hand with male pattern baldness, female pattern baldness, or other types of alopecia. Yes, these emotions are real and can be challenging to overcome.  After all, hair is a big part of our physical identity. It’s not uncommon to refer to a person as the “guy with the blonde spiky hair” or the “woman with the long, dark, wavy hair.”  

How can you approach the topic in a way that won’t diminish these feelings? Remember that compassion goes a long way. One way to do that is to acknowledge your partner’s grief. Let them know that you understand hair loss is upsetting and that you care.  Avoid statements such as “maybe it will grow back” that invalidate their feelings. You may also want to ask whether your partner wants you to just listen or if he or she wants your input. Unsolicited advice may not be welcome.  

Do Your Homework

If your partner does want advice, you’ll want to be prepared. Here are a few points that will be helpful to know. First of all, the most common reason why people lose their hair is typically due to androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness).  It’s a genetic condition that occurs when a person’s body converts Testosterone to a substance called Dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT attacks the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually close up. Existing hair sheds and new hair fails to grow. Many people don’t realize that androgenetic alopecia can be treated.  

Minoxidil, known as Rogaine, is often used to keep hair follicles open. Finasteride or Dutasteride, DHT blockers, can be prescribed and used simultaneously. If your significant other is a guy and is concerned about sexual side effects, you can tell him not to worry. Pills are what can cause side effects. Topical formulas, which are just as effective, don’t carry the same risk profile. (01) Women don’t carry the same risk profile, although Finasteride and Dutasteride should only be used by women who aren’t pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.  

Although male and female pattern baldness is the predominant type of alopecia that men and women experience, it’s not the only type. They can also experience temporary hair loss from illnesses or stressful events, alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and other types of alopecia. A trip to the dermatologist is the best way to find out for sure what kind of alopecia your partner has.  

Offer Reassurance

Your partner may or may not decide to seek treatment for their hair loss. No matter where they stand on the topic, it’s important to let them know that their decision is okay with you. Self-confidence is what matters.  

Build a Healthy Lifestyle

Does your partner eat right, exercise, or take any necessary supplements? If not, now is the time to make lifestyle changes that can promote healthier hair. Smoking, too much alcohol, poor diet, and stress all contribute to hair loss. As a couple, you have an automatic built-in support system to improve any bad habits. As a matter of fact, couples who quit smoking together are 5.83 times more likely to succeed than when only one partner quits. (02)

Lifestyle enhancements are more fun and longer-lasting when you make them together. Cooking, going for walks, and taking bike rides not only improve hair health but are also nice bonding opportunities. And, what’s more romantic than reading the back of protein powder labels together? Well maybe that one doesn’t top your list of date night activities, but it is a good learning opp for both of you. (If you aren’t familiar with the benefits of protein powder for hair loss, check out Dr. Ben Behnam’s segment on Gillian Lockitch’s Growing Older Living Younger podcast.)           

Help Step Up Their Style Game

Some people are into fashion, and some aren’t.  If your significant other is open to some subtle (or not so subtle) changes, this may be the time for a new hairstyle or a shopping trip. A good barber or hair stylist will know what styles best camouflage bald spots or make thinning hair look thicker. The right clothes can strategically direct attention away from hair. Not to mention that a fresh cut, jeans that fit just right, or a new dress can do wonders for a person’s confidence.  

Be There When They’re Ready

It’s no secret that many people would rather be anywhere other than a doctor’s office. If your partner falls into this category, that’s okay. See if they would like you to accompany them to their appointment. If not, don’t feel slighted. It’s not you, they may just prefer to go solo. If he or she is really skittish, telemedicine may be a better option. They can consult with a board-certified dermatologist and hair specialist from the comfort of their own home. Prescription medications can now be prescribed through telemedicine, and orders can be delivered in discrete packages directly to their front door.       

Hopefully, by now, you’ve learned that you don’t have to be a psychologist to help your partner deal with his or her hair loss. You just need to be a good listener and offer helpful advice when wanted. You have the opportunity to be the voice of reason. The initial shock will wear off over time and your partner will either accept their fate or fight it. Remember, Happy Head is here to help. Contact us if you’d like more information about male pattern hair loss or how to get the strongest prescription hair loss medications delivered directly to your door.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34634163/#:~:text=Conclusion%3A%20Topical%20finasteride%20significantly%20improves,impact%20on%20serum%20DHT%20concentrations.

(02) https://cardiovascularbusiness.com/topics/clinical/vascular-endovascular/quitting-smoking-easier-couples-try-together#:~:text=At%20the%20end%20of%20the,partner%20was%20attempting%20to%20quit.

 

What Every Man Should Know About Male Pattern Baldness

Is male pattern hair loss inherited? Find out everything you need to know about your hair loss with tips from our Happy Head board-certified dermatologists.

Close your eyes and visualize a middle-aged guy. What do you see?  Maybe a few distinguished worry lines? A slight bulge around the middle saying, “Hey, go back to the gym”? A receding hairline or a shaved head? Whoa, stop right there.  Do all men go bald?  Is that really your fate too?  

While it’s true that data indicates over 50 percent of men have extensive hair loss by the age of 50, there are ways to avoid becoming part of that statistic. (01) There are many reasons why men go bald, and more effective treatments are available than ever before. If you’re a guy worried about losing your hair, read on. This one’s for you.  

Why Do Men Go Bald?

If you find sacred strands of hair scattered in your sink every time you comb or brush, you may wonder why. Do you have a rare disease? Are you using your cell phone too much? Are there toxins in your water? Most likely not. The explanation is much simpler than you would think.  

Most Guys Are Genetically Predisposed to Hair Loss

Genetics is the most common cause of hair loss among men. (02)  If a family member on your mother or father’s side has experienced hair loss, you may have inherited a baldness gene that causes male pattern baldness. Let’s talk about what that means.  

Male Pattern Baldness is a Type of Alopecia

Because of your genetic make-up, an enzyme called 5a reductase converts testosterone naturally found in your body to a substance called Dihyrotestosterone (DHT). DHT tells your hair follicles, “Hey, there’s an invasion. Close up shop and hunker down.” The hair follicles shrink, and healthy new hair can no longer grow.  

What About Genetic Testing?

Are you thinking, “No problem, there’s genetic testing for just about everything these days, right?” If so, it’s true that genetic tests for androgenetic alopecia (aka male pattern baldness) exist. The only catch is that they aren’t quite perfected yet. So, what can you do if you think your hair loss has a genetic link?

First, consult with a licensed dermatologist who specializes in hair loss. If you’re anti-doctor and procedure-phobic, don’t stress.  Male pattern baldness has specific hair loss patterns that allows diagnosis without any invasive testing. If it turns out male pattern baldness is causing thinning or recession, many treatment options are available.

Treatment Options for Male Pattern Baldness

The best way to treat male pattern baldness is to hit your scalp from different angles with various medications. One that you’ll want to consider is Rogaine. You’ve probably heard of it before. Rogaine liquid and foam is sold over the counter (OTC) to help open up your hair follicles. The generic version, Minoxidil, is sold by prescription in higher doses than what’s available OTC.    

You’ll also want to use a prescription DHT blocker to prevent DHT from being produced in the first place. Finasteride and Dutasteride are the ones most commonly prescribed to men. Finasteride is effective in most men and is used as the first-line treatment. Dutasteride is a bit stronger and can be prescribed if Finasteride isn’t doing the trick. Retinol and cortisone are often added to the mix to improve absorption and prevent irritation.  

Happy Head's 3-in-1 SuperCapsule is the only one of its kind that combines three ingredients for hair growth in one oral treatment. Get yours prescribed by a Happy Head Dermatologist today with Finasteride or Dutasteride.

Do Finasteride & Dutasteride Have Undesirable Side Effects?

Finasteride and Dutasteride are both prostate medications prescribed for men with male pattern baldness. Finasteride is FDA-approved and Dutasteride is used off-label. You may have heard friends or family members talking about the medicines. And, you may have rumors about some side effects like impotence that make you nervous. 

Don’t worry, though. You don’t have to choose between your hair or your sex life. You can have both. If you’re thinking about taking oral Finasteride or Dutasteride, consider this. The percentage of men who experience side effects is really small. During Finasteride’s clinical trials, less than two percent of men taking the drug experienced side effects. (03)

If you’re worried about becoming one of the two percent, topical Finasteride or Dutasteride may be a good option. Topicals have been proven to be equally effective as oral DHT blockers (04) and don’t carry the same risk of side effects since they work at the scalp and aren’t systemic.   

How do Topical Brands Compare?

It’s no great secret that the hair loss industry is booming.  Prescription hair loss medications that used to only be available at a pharmacy are now available via telemedicine.  Deciding which ones to use can be difficult.  Are the formulas the same?  Do the brands work differently?  To help you answer those questions, Fin vs. Fin recently compared topical hair loss treatments based on active ingredients, ease of application, and price.  Check out their review to see how industry leaders stack up.

Although Not as Common, Men Experience Alopecia for Other Reasons

Male pattern baldness accounts for most hair loss among men. However, other conditions can also cause alopecia. A small percentage of men experience alopecia due to autoimmune conditions. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes small, round patches of hair loss. Lichen planopilaris can cause recession, smooth white patches, and an itching or burning sensation. It’s important to see your dermatologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan if you’re experiencing hair loss. If you have one of these conditions, early intervention is key to preserving your hair.

Thinning or Balding Can Be Temporary

When your body experiences sudden changes, temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium can occur. Covid, the flu, and having surgery can shock your body and cause hair in the resting state of your hair’s growth process to fall out all at once. Stress can cause the same effect. If continual conflicts at home or work burnout is an issue, finding ways to cope will help. You may also want to get your vitamin levels checked. Vitamin D and iron deficiencies can also lead to temporary hair loss.  

So, let’s recap.  Even if you are predisposed to balding, there are ways to preserve your hair.  Get checked out by your dermatologist to determine the cause and know that treatments are available.  If you need advice, we’re here to help.  Happy Head has licensed dermatologists in every state who are available to answer your questions.  We also offer tested hair growth pills, topicals, shampoo, conditioner, and supplements developed by hair loss specialists Dr. Ben and Sean Behnam.   

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9865198/

(02) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16127116/

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9951956/

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7648777/

 

Dealing with Hair Loss? Get These Hormones Under Control.

Here’s a fun fact: hormonal imbalances are the leading cause of hair loss.  At least 50 percent of men are affected by the age of 50. (01)  Ladies, this is true for you too.  Those chemicals that send messages to your organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues are pretty powerful.  They rule your emotions, your weight, your sleep patterns, and, yes, your hair.  If your hairline is receding, or you’re starting to see bald patches on the crown of your head, it may be a sign that you need to get those hormones under control.  Not sure how?  Here are some tips and tricks to help.  

Hormonal Hair Loss Triggers

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about the different types of hormonal hair loss.  Not all hair loss due to hormonal imbalances is the same.  Some hair loss is short-term. Once balance is restored, your hair will grow back.  Other types are a bit more challenging to manage.  In this case, medication can help stop your hair loss and jump-start the growth process.  Fortunately, great progress has been made researching and developing medications designed to treat hair loss due to hormonal imbalances.  Many effective oral and topical options are now available.  So, what hormones cause temporary hair loss, and which create more long-term issues?

Testosterone

We’ll start with testosterone.  Testosterone is the hormone that stimulates the development of male sexual characteristics.  Testosterone affects men’s sex drive and sperm production.  It also plays a role in bone and muscle mass, fat storage, blood cell production, and mood.  Women also produce testosterone, but in much smaller amounts.  

Typically, about ten percent of testosterone in men and women converts to an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) due to an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR).  Once DHT flows through your bloodstream, DHT attaches to the receptors on your hair follicles.  The hair follicles then shrink, making your hair thin and eventually fall out, causing what’s known as male or female pattern hair loss.  

Solution:  Successfully treating male or female pattern hair loss often takes a multi-faceted approach.  Enlarging the hair follicles while blocking the testosterone from converting to DHT is usually the best strategy.  It can, however, take some trial to determine which medications and strengths are most effective for each person.  Minoxidil is often used to open the follicles.  Commonly used DHT blockers include Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone.  All of these medications are available in oral or topical formulas.  Many people prefer topicals since they eliminate the risk of systemic side effects.  

Cortisol 

Who isn’t stressed out these days?  Pressure at work, rising costs, and keeping peace at home can be a lot to handle.  When you get stressed out, your body generates extra cortisol.  Cortisol is produced and released in your adrenal glands which are located on top of your kidneys.  Its job as a steroid hormone is to tell your body, ”Hey, you need to chill out!” When your cortisol level gets high, it can reduce the synthesis and speed up the breakdown of hyaluronic acid and proteoglycans in your scalp.  The increase interrupts your hair’s growth cycle, which can lead to hair loss.

Solution:  Breathe.  Hair loss due to stress is usually temporary.  Your hair will grow back on its own once the stressors are gone.  Head outside for a walk, sign-up for a yoga class, or download a meditation app to listen to before bed.  If the usual tricks for restoring calm in your life don’t work, seeking help from a counselor or therapist may be the way to go.  

Triiodothyronine (T3) & Thyroxine (T4)

T3 and T4 are hormones produced in the thyroid gland.  They control how your body uses energy and help regulate many functions from your metabolism to brain development.  T3 and T4 are the markers typically used to help diagnose thyroid disorders.  Too high or too low can be signs of hyper or hypothyroidism.  Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss with specific patterns.  People who lose their hair due to thyroid issues usually see thinning over the entire scalp.  

Solution:  Treating the thyroid disorder usually leads to regrowth over several months.  If you think your hair loss may be thyroid related, you’ll need an appointment with an endocrinologist.  Once your thyroid is treated, your hair will slowly grow back.   

Estrogen and Progesterone 

Decreases in estrogen and progesterone levels have been proven to affect women’s hair growth cycles. (02)  That’s why women tend to see their hair thinning or shedding after childbirth or during menopause.  During menopause, a decrease in these hormones also causes an increase in androgens that produce DHT.  DHT conversion happens for women as it does for men, resulting in female pattern hair loss.  Hair lost after childbirth usually resolves itself and grows back over time.  Hair loss due to menopause requires treatment.

Solution:  If you’ve recently had a baby or are nearing menopause age, visit your dermatologist for a consultation and diagnosis.  Postpartum hair loss and female pattern baldness can usually be diagnosed through a visual exam.  There are very specific patterns of hair loss.  You don’t want to assume that your hair loss is hormone-related, just in case another cause requires different treatment.   

How to Treat Hormonal Hair Loss

If your hair loss is due to hormones, treatment options will be based on your condition.  In some cases, your hair will grow back on its own.  Other cases will require treatment.  Here’s an idea of the different types available: 

Minoxidil

Minoxidil, a popular hair loss medication, is sold over the counter and in stronger doses by prescription.  It helps enlarge your hair follicles and allows healthy hair to grow.  It’s best to have a board-certified dermatologist monitor your Minoxidil use.  The reason why is because the medication must be continued once you start using it.  If you discontinue Minoxidil, the hair you grow while using the medication can fall out.  

DHT Blockers

When male or female pattern hair loss is an issue, preventing testosterone from converting to DHT is one of the most effective ways to stop thinning and shedding.  A few different types are available, including Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone for women.  Prescription DHT blockers are available in pill or topical formulas.  Each have pros and cons, so it’s important to work with your dermatologist to determine which medication and formula is best for you.  

Supplements

Supplements alone won’t regrow your hair, but they can help treat the root cause of your hair loss.  Iron and vitamin D deficiencies are common among people with hair loss due to hormonal imbalances.  Collagen, probiotics, and other supplements can also help strengthen your hair and scalp.

Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

The right shampoo and conditioner can help make your hair thicker, shinier, and healthier.  Look for products infused with collagen, saw palmetto, keratin, biotin, and other ingredients that have been proven to support hair growth.

 

Whether you’re 15, 50, or 70, dealing with hormone imbalances can be a nuisance.  However, thanks to research and technology, you have more reliable and accessible options than ever to deal with associated hair loss.  You don’t even have to leave your sofa.  Simply answer a short hair loss questionnaire and our licensed dermatologist will review your case.  If you are a candidate for hormone-induced hair loss, we can make recommendations and deliver customized prescription medications directly to you.  Want to learn more?  Get in touch with us for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5817427/

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7432488/

 

Are You Losing Your Hair? What You Should Do.

Do you suspect you’re losing hair? Don’t panic. Take a breath and make a plan. 

Time is on your side. Hair loss is very rarely something that happens overnight. For most people, hair loss is a slow and stealthy process. Hair loss takes time. Sometimes, it takes years or decades. 

Also, you’re not alone on your hair loss journey. Losing hair is hard to talk about. The hair loss experience is a touchy subject, and friends and family may hesitate to discuss the topic. Fortunately, hair care professionals are available to discuss hair restoration with you. And best of all, these experts know how to create a game plan to slow your hair loss. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Hair Loss 

Being concerned about losing your hair is not vain – it’s human! Your hair plays a significant role in your appearance and self-confidence. If keeping as much hair as possible is crucial to you, then treating hair loss is an integral part of your self-care strategy. With that said, the following are essential steps to take if you think you’re experiencing hair loss.

Learn About Hair’s Growth Cycle

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), every individual can expect to lose about 50 to 100 hairs daily. Hair undergoes a definite growth cycle, with a percentage of hair undergoing different portions of the growth cycle at any given time. At the end of each cycle, the strands fall naturally, and new hair grows in. The stages of hair growth are: (01,02)

  • Anagen (growth phase)
  • Catagen (transition phase)
  • Telogen (resting and shedding phase)

Excessive hair loss is not a regular part of this growth cycle. This type of hair loss occurs when there is a disruption in one of the three phases. For example, too many strands may fall simultaneously (in the Telogen phase) or fail to regrow after falling (in the Anagen phase). 

Identify the Signs of Hair Loss

Spotting the signs of hair loss might take some investigating. To determine whether you’re experiencing excessive hair loss, keep an eye out for: (03)

  • The development of bald patches. 
  • Hair that feels lighter. 
  • A more visible scalp. 
  • Foreheads or temples appear larger. 
  • More hair than usual on bedding, hairbrushes, or in the bathtub.
  • Hair that doesn’t fall in your typical hairstyle.
  • Intense itching or burning (may be a sign of infection.)
  • Scaly patches. 

Hair loss typically appears in three forms: 

  • Patterned: People with patterned hair loss see progressive thinning or balding at the hairline, sides, or top of the head. Patterned loss is typically seen in hereditary types of hair loss, like androgenetic alopecia.
  • Diffuse: A consistent and even loss of hair throughout the scalp is called diffused hair loss. This hair loss usually occurs in cases of illness, nutrient deficiency, or during periods of severe stress. 
  • Focal: Focal hair loss occurs as patches on the scalp, face, or the body, and is usually linked to autoimmune disorders.

Discovering hair loss is no doubt a distressing event. But it’s better to know so you can take steps to treat it. The earlier you can identify hair loss, the higher your chances for a successful hair restoration. 

What’s Causing Your Hair Loss? 

A few common causes of hair loss are: 

    • Age: Most people experience hair loss with age to some degree. Some people may see more loss of hair than others. Treatments may help to regrow hair or slow hair loss if caught early. 
    • Stress: Stress can cause excessive shedding. Often, hair will regain its fullness after reducing stress, or a stressful experience has passed. In some cases, treatment is necessary to regrow hair. 
    • Medical Conditions: Illnesses can lead to hair loss. Alopecia areata, as an example, is an immune disorder that attacks hair follicles, resulting in loss of hair. Thyroid disorders can also impact hair growth and cause diffused hair loss. (04)
    • Hair Care Treatments: Chemical relaxers, hair dyes, and perms may injure hair follicles, preventing healthy hair regrowth. Hair restorations may help to regrow hair in many cases. 
    • Hormonal Imbalance: Women, in particular, may lose hair due to birth control pills, pregnancy, perimenopause, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Medical care combined with hair treatments may help to restore hair. 
    • Friction: Frictional alopecia may occur when headgear or clothing repeatedly rubs against the skin or scalp. Hair typically regrows by removing the source of friction, but hair growth treatment may be necessary in some instances. 
    • Genetic Factors: The cause of thinning or balding may have a genetic cause if hair loss runs in the family. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern hair loss, is thought to have a genetic component. Hair growth treatments can help to regrow hair in cases of androgenetic alopecia. (05)
    • Diet: A diet high in processed foods and low in nutrients is bad for your health and may even contribute to hair loss. For example, a 2020 study found that a nutrient-deficient diet may cause a hair loss condition called telogen effluvium. Telogen effluvium may also occur during times of severe stress or illness. A multi-targeted approach, like hair treatments, dietary supplements, and a healthy diet, may help counter the effects of a poor diet. (06)

Determine Your Options 

Speaking with a hair restoration professional can confirm or correct your suspicions about hair loss. Once hair loss is confirmed, a hair expert can help you determine the appropriate treatment to restore your hair. 

  • Medication: Hair strands grow from – and are held in place by – hair follicles. These follicles are sensitive to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT can injure and miniaturize these hair follicles, which causes hair to fall out faster. Furthermore, DHT impedes new hair growth. Medications targeting DHT limit damage by the hormone and may successfully regrow hair. 
    • Finasteride and Minoxidil are FDA-approved medications that help encourage hair growth and slow hair loss. Both Finasteride and Minoxidil are available as either a topical or oral medication. 
    • Dutasteride is another effective medication used to counter DHT levels. This medication suppresses the production of DHT, therefore reducing the overall amount of DHT. (07)
  • Hair Care: Harsh shampoos, oily conditioners, and thermal hair tools harm the health of your hair. Using hair products that cleanse and nourish the scalp, follicles, and hair strengthens each strand and keeps more hair on your head. 
  • Diet and Supplements: A nutrient-dense diet full of antioxidants and protein increases the likelihood of thicker hair. Unfortunately, diet changes may not always be enough. In these cases, health supplements containing hair-boosting ingredients like keratin, saw palmetto, and vitamins A and D. 

Remember that there’s no magic bullet to regrow hair. Furthermore, hair restoration treatments are not one-size-fits-all.  Finding the appropriate treatments and balance of medications requires the help of an experienced hair loss professional. 

Consult With a Happy Head Hair Loss Professional

If you think you’re losing your hair, contact our hair loss experts at Happy Head. Do you see more strands falling? Do you notice bald spots forming? There’s no need to worry, because Happy Head can help.  We collaborate closely with you to halt your hair loss. Whether you need oral medication, a topical, or a nutrient supplement, our experienced hair loss professionals will work with you to determine the best path to meet your needs. With Happy Head’s wide array of hair products, you’re sure to find the right treatment to regrow your hair. 

 

Resources: 

(01) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/

(03) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/begin

(04) https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/alopecia-areata

(05) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/female-pattern

(06) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7320655/

(07) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28294070/

Is Your Medication Causing Your Hair Loss?

 

It’s not a shocker that medications have side effects.  Read through the list on your medications’ inserts, and you’ll often see things like dizziness, headaches, sleepiness, or even worse, trouble sleeping.  One side effect that isn’t often mentioned, however, is hair loss.  Yes, some medications can cause hair loss over time. How do you know if your prescription medication is contributing to your hair loss?  What should you do if you suspect that a particular drug makes your hair fall out?  We’re here to answer your questions about drug-induced hair loss and share treatment options available to help regrow your hair.  

Drug-induced Alopecia is A Real Thing

Many people experience androgenetic alopecia, male and female pattern hair loss.  Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of alopecia.  Unless a person undergoes treatment, hair loss from male and female pattern baldness is permanent.  Alopecia that occurs after taking medication is a different story.  Drug-induced hair loss is called telogen effluvium (TE), which usually begins about three months after taking the medication.  Fortunately, telogen effluvium is typically reversible once you stop taking the medication.  

If You Think Your Medication is Causing Your Hair Loss, Consult With Your Doctor 

If you think your hair loss is related to your meds, don’t stop taking them.  You’ll need to consult with your doctor first.  He or she is trained to help you determine whether your hair loss is from the medicine you’re taking or something else.  It may take some detective work to know for sure.  If your doctor confirms that your hair loss is due to your medicine, he or she can offer some options that will help.  Simple tactics such as switching to a name or generic brand, changing dosages, or adding vitamins may make a big difference.

Eight Types of Medications Have a Reputation for Causing Hair Loss

Certain medications are more likely to cause hair loss than others.  Here are eight that patients have reported:

  1. Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are also known as blood thinners.  They are often prescribed to reduce the risk of strokes or heart attacks.  Anticoagulants prevent or reduce the coagulation of your blood, which prolongs the clotting time.  Well-known brands include Warfarin, Heparin, and Xarelto.  Researchers believe that the mechanism that allows anticoagulants to thin the blood also contributes to telogen effluvium, but they aren’t sure exactly how or why.  More data is still needed to understand the association. (01)

  1. Antidepressants

Sertraline, marketed under the name Zoloft, is a well-known and used antidepressant. The medication increases serotonin levels in the brain.  Although rare, hair loss has been documented as a side effect of Zoloft (02) and other antidepressants.  Researchers believe that the medication pushes the hair follicles into a premature resting state, which makes users’ hair fall out.  The exact reason why is unknown. 

  1. Anti-inflammatories & Arthritis Medications

It’s not unusual for Methotrexate, Humira, and other arthritis medications to cause hair loss.  The reason is that the medication is designed to stop cells that cause inflammation from growing.  In some cases, people’s hair follicles are affected cells.  Some prescription NSAIDs including oxaprozin, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, diclofenac, and celecoxib, have been reported to cause alopecia as well. Over-the-counter NSAIDs taken in moderate doses typically don’t affect patients’ hair.  

  1. Blood Pressure Medications

Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors are often used to lower blood pressure, control the heart’s rhythm, and treat angina.  These medications change your body’s response to adrenaline and other stress hormones to reduce your heart rate and blood pressure.  Incidentally, they sometimes also target the hair follicles in either the resting or new growth phase.  

  1. Cholesterol-lowering Medications

Hair loss is a rare side effect when taking statins.  Researchers don’t know exactly why statins could cause alopecia, but they do know that cholesterol is a building block for steroid hormones.  Those hormones play a role in your hair’s growth.  More research is needed in this arena.  

  1. Medications for Severe Acne and Psoriasis

Accutane is one of the most well-known medications prescribed to treat severe acne.  While Accutane is highly effective, about 10 percent of Accutane users experience hair loss. (03)  The reason why is that Accutane affects the pituitary gland’s hormone levels.  Those hormone levels are responsible for making your hair grow.  Medications used to treat plaque psoriasis that calm the immune system can also cause temporary hair loss.  Methotrexate and Remicade are two medications known for inducing short-term alopecia.   

  1. Epilepsy and Anticonvulsant Medications

If you’re taking medication for epilepsy and notice that your hair is thinning, you’re not alone. A 2015 study, hair loss was the second highest reported side effect of epilepsy medications after weight loss. (04)  The study indicated that pregabalin, phenytoin, and valproic acid are the culprits.  If you think you’re experiencing hair loss due to one of these medications, check with your neurologist about taking supplements such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and folic acid or modifying your prescription.  

How to Regrow Your Hair

If you think your medication is thinning your hair, there are things you can do to help it grow.  Here are some short-term and long-term options:

Short-term Options

If you haven’t had time to schedule an appointment with your doctor yet, or are waiting for one, you can do a few things in the meanwhile.  The most important is to ensure that you are practicing good self-care.  Get enough sleep and eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit, and protein.  Moderate exercise will help the blood flow to your scalp.  You may also want to consider a thickening shampoo and conditioner.  One infused with vitamins and supplements will support your hair’s health and growth.  

Long-term Options

If you’ve been working with your doctor and your hair doesn’t respond to adjustments in your treatment plan, topical or oral hair loss medications may be an option for you.  With prescription topical hair loss solutions, you won’t have to worry about contradictions with other medications you are taking.  Topicals are not systemic since you are not ingesting them.  Topical medications such as Minoxidil, Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Sprinolactone work directly on the scalp to enlarge the hair follicles and block the hormones that make your hair shed.  Topicals can also be customized based on factors such as your medical history, age, and gender.  

If topical hair loss solutions aren’t right for you, Minoxidil, Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironlactone are also available as pills.  If you go this route, your doctor will be instrumental in ensuring that new hair loss medications can be safely added to your existing medication protocol.

If you are experiencing hair loss that you think may be linked to the medications you’re taking, you probably have a lot of questions.  It’s normal to want to know what to do, how to stop the shedding, and how to regrow your hair.  If that’s the case, we’re here to help.  Our dermatologists are board-certified medical doctors and can point you in the right direction.  We’ll review your medical history, evaluate your hair loss, and make recommendations based on your specific needs.  Best of all, you can access us easily and discreetly.  Contact us to get started. 

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4819463/#:~:text=Traditional%20anticoagulants%20are%20thought%20to,growth%20of%20new%20hair%20underneath.

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4589582/

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21103844/

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25513768/

 

Can You Block DHT Naturally Without Medication?

“No way,” was my initial reaction when my dermatologist first recommended oral Finasteride for my rapidly receding hairline.  My mind was made up, and I was absolutely not taking prescription medication for my hair loss.  I was too afraid of the potential side effects I’d heard about.  Bald certainly was better than impotent, although neither seemed like a great option. True, the number of men who experience sexual dysfunction from Finasteride is minuscule.  With my luck, though, I would be one of the three men out of a million affected.

So, I started checking out natural DHT blockers.  Natural is a better way to go, right?  Here’s what I discovered.  Yes, some natural DHT blockers are showing promise and are worth a test drive.  Are they strong enough to stop your hair loss and regrow your hair?  After many nights of research and weighing the pros and cons, I ended up going the prescription route after all. That doesn’t mean that you won’t come to a different conclusion.   Here’s a guide to help you decide whether natural DHT blockers are the right choice for you.  

Do Natural DHT Blockers Work Differently Than Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Other Prescription Hair Loss Medications?

Is there a difference between how natural supplements and prescription DHT blockers work?  Yes and no.  Functionally, both natural and prescription DHT blockers do the same thing.  They prevent testosterone from converting into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that attacks and shrinks your hair follicles.  When your hair follicles are miniaturized, it’s difficult for healthy new hair to grow, and existing hair falls out.  So functionally, both natural and prescription blockers do the same thing.  The main difference is the way they block the DHT and their strength.  

What Enzymes are Being Inhibited?

One milligram per day of Finasteride selectively inhibits the Type 2 isoenzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.  Half a milligram of Dutasteride inhibits both Type 1 and Type 2.  Yes, Dutasteride is considered a stronger medication because it’s a broader spectrum drug.  How do natural remedies compare?  The jury is out.  Not enough research has been conducted to fully understand which enzymes natural DHT blockers inhibit or the amount needed to do the job.  That said, let’s discuss what we do know.  

Some Supplements Effectively Block DHT

Even though more research is needed, preliminary studies indicate that certain supplements show the potential to stop hair loss and promote new growth. Here are some to watch:

Pumpkin Seed Oil

According to a study conducted on 76 men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness), pumpkin seed oil increased participants’ mean hair count by 40 percent compared to 10 percent of men who used the placebo.  Most participants did not experience any adverse effects from the pumpkin seed oil. (01)  Before you rush out and buy pumpkin seed oil, consider this.  The study was the first of its kind and the sample size was small.  The study also did not determine how pumpkin seed oil works.  Neither DHT nor prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were tracked.  

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil was put to the test in 2015 during a small research study of 50 men.  When compared to two percent Minoxidil, rosemary oil had a surprising result.  It was found to be equally as effective. (02)  Here’s the catch, though.  Five percent Minoxidil is stronger than two percent and more effective. (03)  Is there a dosage of rosemary oil strong enough to regrow your hair?  The jury is out.  More research is needed.      

Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto is a palm-like tree with berries.  Extracts are known to have medicinal purposes, and there’s evidence that saw palmetto stimulates hair growth.  Thirty-eight percent of men in one research study saw increased growth after using saw palmetto every day for two years.  Sounds promising, right?  It is.  That’s why we added saw palmetto to our supplements, shampoo, and conditioner.  

While saw palmetto is a good complementary treatment to prescription hair loss medications, we don’t recommend it as a stand-alone treatment for androgenetic alopecia.  In the same study, more men who used Finasteride experienced hair growth than men who used saw palmentto.  The study also indicated Finasteride was more effective for men with more advanced hair loss. (04)   

Green Tea

Green tea contains a plant compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that is believed to act as a DHT blocker and prevent hair loss due to male and female pattern baldness.  A study on mice indicated that 33 percent of the mice who drank extracted polyphenol from dehydrated green tea had significant hair growth compared to mice who drank plain water. (05)  Another study conducted in vivo and in vitro on humans substantiated the findings. (06)  Before you stock up, though, keep in mind that further research is needed.  We still don’t know exactly how much green tea is required to stimulate growth in humans or how green tea compares to other hair loss medications.  

Lifestyle Enhancements Can Help With Hair Loss

Sure, you know that eating a lot of junk food, drinking too much, and smoking are bad for you.  But, did you know that certain lifestyle changes can help you fight genetics?  Here are a few:

Scalp Massage

Research has indicated that just four minutes of scalp massage that stretches your skin to open the hair follicles can increase your hair thickness. (07)  Should you run out and get a scalp massager?  Maybe.  The study is promising, but it was only conducted on nine men.  A follow-up study indicates that scalp massage is more effective for frontal, temporal, or vertex thinning than diffuse thinning. (08)  More research is still needed.  

Exercise

Contrary to popular belief, exercise won’t make your hair fall out.  Although not proven, it may help promote hair growth and health by improving blood flow to your scalp.  

Diet

Certain foods aren’t likely to make your hair fall out, but nutrient deficiencies are another story.  Vitamin D and iron are the most common deficiencies that contribute to hair loss.  The good news is that the deficiencies are usually temporary.  Once supplements are taken, hair loss will be reversed.  Foods can help make your hair look thicker, healthier, and shinier.  If you’re concerned about hair loss, ensure you’re eating plenty of protein.  Protein is the primary building block contained in keratin that makes up your hair.  

Sleep

Little research has been conducted on the association between sleep and male and female pattern baldness.  One study did find that men with androgenetic alopecia tend to have more sleep disturbances than men who were not experiencing hair loss. (09)  Neither cause nor effect were established.  One explanation could be stress.  Chronic stress can push your hair into a resting phase and cause hair loss.  The solution?  A good eight hours of uninterrupted sleep.

Is There A Downside to Experimenting With Natural DHT Blockers?

If you’ve seen a Hamilton-Norwood scale, you know that male and female pattern hair loss progresses over time.  Early on, the hair follicles are still open, even though they may be starting to shrink.  It’s easier to regrow hair while those follicles are still viable.  If you use a natural DHT blocker that isn’t strong enough as a stand-alone treatment, the follicles could completely close, and you may lose the opportunity to maximize growth. 

What if you Need Something Stronger?

It’s understandable if you want to go the natural route to block DHT.  If going au natural isn’t right for you, though, there are options that will help you avoid the undesirable side effects that you may have heard about.  Topical treatments exist to treat male and female pattern baldness and have been proven to be as effective as oral pills. (10)  They avoid side effects because they are not metabolized systemically.  Here are the top contenders:

  • Topical Minoxidil 
    • Enlarges your hair follicles to allow for new, healthy growth
    • Sold over the counter in two and five-percent solutions
    • Available by prescription in higher dosages
  • Topical Finasteride
    • First-line DHT blocker 
    • Available to men and women who are not childbearing age
  • Topical Dutasteride
    • Broad-spectrum DHT blocker
    • Available to both men and women who are not childbearing age
  • Topical Spironolactone
    • DHT blocker 
    • Only prescribed to women

Another benefit of topicals is the ability to combine multiple treatments into one formula to give the highest opportunity for regrowth.  Minoxidil is often combined with DHT blockers to enlarge the hair follicles while preventing hormones that attack the hair follicles from converting.  

Want to try prescription topical medication?  Topicals can complement natural DHT blockers or work on their own.  New customers can get 50 percent off of their first order.  Visit us and learn how to get started.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017725/

(02) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12196747/

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23298508/

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2569505/

(06) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17092697/

(07) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4740347/

(08) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380978/

(09) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35469370/

(10) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34634163/#:~:text=Conclusion%3A%20Topical%20finasteride%20significantly%20improves,impact%20on%20serum%20DHT%20concentrations.

 

Are These Ordinary Things Damaging Your Hair?

It’s not surprising that elements like chlorine and salt water can make your hair look dry and frizzy.  Or that flat irons, hair dryers, and other heat styling can cause heavy-duty breakage.  Bleach and highlights, well, no surprise there, either.  You’re probably careful about avoiding these known troublemakers, especially if your hair is thinning or balding.  After all, you want the hair that’s remaining to stay as healthy as possible.  It’s difficult to avoid things you don’t know can damage your hair, though.  You don’t know what you don’t know.  So, we’re here to fill you in on some very ordinary things that could wreak havoc on your tresses.  

Hard Water Can Cause Bad Hair Days

Finding the right shampoo and conditioner is usually top of mind when it comes to hair care.  But do you ever think about what kind of water you’re using to wash your hair?  Is the water coming out of your showerhead hard or soft?  Hard water isn’t harmful, but it can be harsh on your hair.  

First, let’s talk a little bit about what hard water is.  When you look at water, you usually see a clear liquid.  What you can’t see is the concentration of minerals and chemicals in the water.  The concentration of minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium, determines your water’s hardness.  The higher the amount of calcium and magnesium, the harder the water.  You may be unable to tell if your water is hard or soft.  A couple of signs that it’s hard are if your drinking glasses get cloudy or your hands still feel slippery after you’ve washed them with soap and water.  

Now, what does hard water mean for your hair?  One research study found that hard water can actually damage your hair. (01)  When hair samples were washed in hard water versus distilled water for 30 days, the distilled water samples were thicker and less crumpled looking.  If your hair is dull, brassy, has a green hue, breaks or tangles easily, check your water. 

If you discover that your water is hard, there are some things you can do to protect your hair.  One option is to use a vinegar rinse  or clarifying shampoo once a week.  Another option is to install a showerhead with a filter.  Whole house water softener filtration systems are also available.  Filters and water softening systems reduce the mineral concentration in the water, leaving your hair softer and silkier.  

Addicted to Hairspray or Gel?

Most of us were not born with that perfect hair we see in ads.  You know what we mean, that glossy, thick hair that falls exactly into the right place, even in the rain and wind.  So, we resort to the next best thing.  Hairspray or gel that freezes our hair in place and gives us that extra hold.  It works, right?  But is it really good for you?  

Hairspray or gel probably won’t make your hair fall out.  They could, however, dry out your hair and cause breakage.  Alcohol, ethanol, parabens, and fragrances tend to cause the most damage.  Also, formulas that clog your hair follicles could make it harder for new hair to grow.  If you can’t live without something to give your hairstyle a little extra hold, look for products that contain all-natural and hydrating ingredients such as argan oil and biotin.  

What about sea salt sprays?  They’ve become popular for adding volume and texture.  Are they okay since salt is a natural ingredient?  Yes and no.  In moderation, sea salt spray is fine.  Too much, however, will have the same drying effect as you get when swimming in the ocean.  Salt strips the moisture out of your hair.  

Stressed Out?  Here’s An Excuse to Treat Yourself to a Massage.

It’s not surprising that stress takes a toll on our minds and our bodies.  Headaches, digestive issues, heart disease, and more have all been linked.  This one may surprise you, though.  Hair loss can be directly related to stress.  Think about it.  When you get stressed, your body reacts involuntarily by getting tense.  Your blood vessels constrict, and there isn’t as much oxygen flowing to your scalp and hair follicles as usual.  And when your hair follicles don’t feel the love, they can’t sustain or produce healthy hair.  The technical term is called telogen effluvium.  Fortunately, stress-induced hair loss can resolve itself over time.  Meanwhile, a good massage, 30 minutes a day with a meditation app, or a brisk walk may be just what the doctor ordered.

Avoiding Your Barber or Stylist

Growing your hair out?  Too busy to get in for a haircut?  You may want to squeeze in time for an appointment.  When you go too long between visits, you can end up with split ends.  Split ends mean that your hair is more likely to break higher up near the shafts.  The longer you wait between cuts, the higher the damage to your hair strands.  Trims every four to six weeks will help keep your hair healthier and stronger.  

It May Be Time to Change Your Pillowcases

This one may seem far fetched but stay with us.  Switching to silk pillowcases may help keep your hair healthier.  If your pillowcases are cotton, the fibers could be rough.  If that’s the case, your hair rubbing against the fibers could cause tangling and breakage.  You know what it takes to get a knot out of your hair.  Extra brushing and yanking leads to breakage.  The fibers themselves could also cause breakage.  Cotton is known for absorbing oils as well. Silk pillowcases do a better job of allowing your hair’s natural oils to stay on your head where they belong rather than on the pillowcase where they could cause acne.  

Yet Another Reason to Quit Smoking

If you’re a smoker, you probably don’t want another lecture on quitting.  You’ve heard it all, or so you thought.   Did you know that smoke from cigarettes can damage your hair follicles?   When you smoke, your body is exposed to toxic chemicals, including formaldehyde and arsenic.  These and additional toxins damage the structure of your blood vessels. Some of those blood vessels affect your heart.  Other vessels lead to your head and scalp.  When the blood vessels are exposed to the toxins and shrink, the blood flow to your hair follicles is reduced.  That means new, healthy hair can’t be produced.  Existing hair may fall out.  

Your Genetics May Be Working Against You

If you notice that your hair is thinning or balding, you may be experiencing androgenetic alopecia, male or female pattern hair loss.  It’s a genetic condition that affects a large percentage of the population.  Men who experience the condition see a receding hairline.  Women usually notice a widening part.  Hereditary hair loss can occur any time after puberty, so even people in their 20s may be affected.  The best way to know for sure is by checking with your dermatologist.  If it turns out that your hair loss is due to androgenetic alopecia, medications including Minoxidil, Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone are available to stop the shedding and stimulate hair growth.  The medications help enlarge shrinking hair follicles and prevent your hormones from converting to androgens that cause hair loss. 

Can Damaged Hair be Repaired?

If damage is already done, is there anything you can do to repair your hair?  Take heart.  All is not lost.  First, stop using any offending products.  If the damage is stems from smoking, stress, or other behavior, lifestyle changes will help.  If your hair is thinning or balding, it’s always good to consult with your dermatologist.  As mentioned, you may be experiencing male or female pattern hair loss or another type of alopecia that can be managed with the right treatment.  

Not sure what’s damaging your hair?  Our hair growth experts are here to help.  All of our doctors are board-certified dermatologists experienced in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect your hair.  They’ll be able to help you figure out if your hair is damaged from something you might not be aware of or if you have a form of alopecia that can be treated. We also offer customized treatments ranging from thickening shampoos and conditioners to prescription hair regrowth formulas.  Best of all, you can order from your couch and receive your delivery at your front door.   Get started now!

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30034190/

What are the Best Nutrients for Hair Growth?

A few aspects of hair growth are out of your hands. Your genetics and age, for example, are set in stone and can’t be changed. Fortunately, there is one factor that is well within your control – the nutrients you consume. Nutrients have a significant impact on hair growth. And fortunately, you can choose which nutrients you take in. 

How do vitamins and minerals help with hair loss? 

Your hair is important for your self-image, but it’s not ultimately necessary for keeping you alive. Hair thrives in a well-nourished environment. But when your health is compromised, your body diverts nutrients from areas like your scalp to more life-sustaining vital organs. Therefore, good health keeps more hair on your head. 

Although the hair you see on your head is made up of cells that are not “living,” those precious strands grow from tissues that are very much alive. Each strand grows from a follicle on the scalp, which is part of the body’s largest organ – your skin. Small blood vessels at the base of each follicle nourish the hair root to keep it growing.

The average person has about 100,000 hairs, all at various stages of growth. Hair grows, rests,  falls out, and is replaced through a naturally occurring cycle. Some stages of development require specific vitamins and minerals to keep the process going smoothly. 

As a result, your diet and health play a significant role in how quickly your hair grows. Good nutrition creates the framework for healthy hair and can help slow hair loss. So, while there’s no magic bullet that will regrow your hair instantly, there are nutrients that help keep more strands on your head. 

Hair Growth and Nutrients

Some vitamins and minerals are more effective at keeping hair healthy than others. So, if you’re attempting to prevent hair loss or regrow your hair, a targeted approach is the way to go. Boosting your intake of specific hair-friendly nutrients offers you the best prevention for hair loss — and keeps you healthy overall. The following is a list of the best nutrients for hair loss.

Keratin

Hair and nails are primarily made of a protein called keratin, so it’s no surprise that keratin is a vital nutrient for strong hair. This structural protein provides the structure and strength required for hair health, making strands less likely to break off or become damaged. Without enough keratin, cells within each strand of hair overlap unevenly, making their bonds weak and vulnerable to breakage. Keratin — as well as nutrients that encourage keratin formation— allows more hair to remain on your head and keeps every hair shaft strong. (01)

Biotin

Vitamin B7 or vitamin H, otherwise known as biotin, aids in keratin production. Without enough biotin, the hair shaft becomes weak, brittle, and slow to grow. Keratin cells, also known as keratinocytes, are like the bricks that make up each strand of hair. Without enough materials to make the bricks, hair can’t grow or form well enough to maintain its strength. Although biotin deficiency is rare, excessive alcohol consumption and some medical conditions can result in a lack of biotin. Biotin supplementation, whether administered through topicals, shampoos, or orally, can boost hair growth and thickness. (02)

Collagen

Most people are familiar with collagen in regard to skincare, but collagen is also essential for healthy hair. In a recent study published in the International Journal of Trichology, targeted nutritional supplementation primarily consisting of collagen was found to increase hair density in participants with a hair loss condition called telogen effluvium. Collagen improves hair growth during crucial growth cycles and limits hair loss during hair’s telogen phase – when hair typically falls out naturally.  (03)

Saw Palmetto

Individuals who experience male or female pattern baldness typically have an overabundance of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Excessive levels of DHT impact hair follicles by shrinking the follicle, increasing the chances of premature hair loss and preventing new growth. Saw palmetto, a plant extract, has been found to have DHT-blocking solid effects and can slow hair loss caused by DHT.  For people experiencing problems with baldness, saw palmetto supplements may offer relief when used with other boosts. (04)

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a powerful micronutrient that significantly impacts hair growth. The body breaks vitamin A down into retinoic acid and retinol, which both regulate hair follicle stem cells and hair growth cycles. Therefore, a deficiency in vitamin A may lead to poor hair growth and hair loss. Furthermore, oxidative stress may hasten hair loss – especially in the case of alopecia areata. Antioxidants like vitamin A can help counter oxidative effects on hair. 

(05, 06)

Vitamin D

Despite the fact that the human body generates vitamin D from sun exposure, most people don’t get enough vitamin D.  Vitamin D deficiency can occur due to: 

  • A lack of vitamin D in the diet. 
  • Too little time spent in the sun. 
  • Difficulty absorbing vitamin D from food. 
  • Medical problems prevent the body from converting vitamin D. 
  • Medications that interfere with vitamin D levels. 

Fortunately, vitamin D is also found in foods like eggs or fatty fish and in vitamin-fortified foods. Even then, however, some people still don’t obtain enough vitamin D to grow healthy hair. Vitamin D keeps hair follicles in good shape and maintains robust hair growth. A deficiency in vitamin D may result in hair loss and bald patches. (06)

Probiotics

Recent studies indicate intestinal (gut) health plays a more prominent role in overall physical health than previously thought. Within the intestinal tract are bacteria, called the “intestinal microbiome,”  that depends on a specific environment to help break down food and keep the body functioning. An unbalanced microbiome can lead to inflammation, digestive problems, and skin conditions affecting the hair. 

Probiotics are bacteria and yeasts ingested to keep the intestinal microbiome healthy and stable. Current research shows that regulation of the intestinal microbiome using probiotics can boost immunity, help treat a myriad of metabolic conditions, and may even help alleviate the symptoms of some mental health conditions. Healthy intestinal health through probiotics can also give you thicker, more lustrous hair! (07, 08)

Ashwagandha 

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to reduce hair thinning in a cohort of both men and women. Data from the study indicate that supplements with ashwagandha can reduce hair loss on all types of hair, encompassing many ethnicities. At the end of the 24-week study, 83% of men and 79% of women showed improvement in hair quality, scalp coverage, volume, and thickness. (09)

Healthy Hair Through Nutrient Supplementation 

The process of growing hair calls for specific nutrients. Without enough nutrients to feed the follicles, hair becomes brittle grows slowly. So, if you’re looking to keep your scalp and hair healthy, you’ll need to start from the inside. 

Happy Head’s Hair Supplements offer the essential vitamins, minerals, and probiotics you need to strengthen and grow your hair. Formulated by our team of dermatologists, our daily Happy Head Hair Supplements come from natural ingredients like biotin, saw palmetto, and ashwagandha to nourish your hair. Subscribe and save today to supercharge your hair growth in 3 to 6 months for visibility thicker and healthier strands! 

Sources: 

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6095591/

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554493/

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9069902/

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11337315/

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9324272/

(06) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5685931/

(07) https://www.mhanational.org/fitness-4mind4body-gut-brain-connection

(08) https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2017/0801/p170-s1.html

(09) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8903234/

Is Minoxidil (Rogaine) Safe for Women?

Young woman with curly hair looking at herself in the mirror and combing hair with hand, photographed from behind

You may be familiar with Minoxidil that’s used to treat thinning hair and bald spots. The medication was initially tested, marketed, and FDA-approved for men with male pattern baldness. If you’re a woman experiencing hair loss, you may wonder if Minoxidil is safe and effective for you too. After all, Minoxidil is available under the brand name Rogaine over the counter at most big box retailers and pharmacies. It’s easy to buy and use.  

Dermatologists Often Recommend Minoxidil to Their Female Patients

Minoxidil is safe, and it’s the medication most often recommended to women by dermatologists to treat their hair loss conditions. Before you run to the store, though, there are a few things you should know.  

Minoxidil Is FDA Approved for Women

If you’re considering using Minoxidil to treat your hair loss, you’ll be happy to know that the five percent topical foam and solution was FDA-approved for women in 2014. The medication was used off-label for women before it was approved. Why is FDA approval notable? Because it means that the manufacturer proved that its product is safe and effective for its intended use. FDA approval also means the product is manufactured to federal quality standards.  

Higher Doses of Minoxidil are Available by Prescription

Oral Minoxidil and topical Minoxidil doses above five percent are available to women but only off-label by prescription. Don’t be concerned about using prescription medication off-label, though. The FDA knows that medical providers do that. Off-label means that dermatologists may prescribe a drug for use that isn’t approved when the provider determines that the medication is medically appropriate.  

Minoxidil Is Used to Treat Female Pattern Baldness and Other Hair Loss Conditions

Minoxidil is most often recommended and prescribed to treat androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as female pattern baldness. Female pattern baldness occurs in women who are genetically predisposed to hair loss. When women experience this condition, they typically see hair loss along their parts first. Over time, the part widens as the hair in the area continues to thin and fall out. While men who experience male pattern baldness can lose all of their hair over time, women typically don’t. Women are more likely to see diffuse thinning on the crown of their heads.  

Minoxidil is often prescribed for other hair loss conditions as well. Dermatologists often recommend Minoxidil to their female patients with alopecia areata, frontal fibrosing alopecia, lichen planopilaris, and other types of alopecia.

Minoxidil is Available to Women in Different Forms & Doses

Liquid & Foam Rogaine

If you go to the store, you’ll find foam and liquid Minoxidil in two and five-percent formulas. Minoxidil is the same as Rogaine. You may also find generic store brands of Minoxidil under names such as Equate and Kirkland Hair Regrowth Treatment, which contain the same active ingredients.  

Initially, only two percent formulas were marketed for women. However, research indicates that higher doses are more effective for treating female pattern hair loss. Although both two and five percent solutions increased hair growth, the five percent demonstrated statistical superiority over the two percent. (01) When choosing between the liquid and foam, you may want to consider foam that does not contain propylene glycol which can be an irritant to some women. 

Oral Minoxidil

Oral Minoxidil is an alternative to topical and is available by prescription.  The medication is effective in regrowing hair in women with female pattern baldness. (02)  Oral Minoxidil was initially tested in higher doses to treat high blood pressure.  When used to treat genetic hair loss, much lower doses are prescribed.   

Minoxidil With DHT Blockers

The most effective treatments attack hair loss from different angles. Women often use Minoxidil simultaneously with DHT blockers such as Finasteride or Spironolactone. Minoxidil enlarges the hair follicles, while Finasteride or Spironolactone prevents Testosterone from converting to DHT. When DHT is blocked, it can’t bind to the receptors in your hair follicle so your hair won’t be at risk.  

Customized Topical Minoxidil Formulas

Treatments for female pattern baldness may differ from woman to woman. What works for one may not work for another, which is why customized formulas are often best. The most effective treatments attack hair loss from different angles. A benefit of customized formulas is that Minoxidil can be prescribed up to 10 percent, which is significantly higher than what’s available over the counter. Retinol can be added to increase absorption, and cortisone can be added if necessary to prevent irritation from higher concentrations of Minoxidil. Many women also like the convenience of having all of the hair loss medications they need to be compounded into one formula rather than having to take or use multiple medications.       

Minoxidil Side Effects are Usually Minimal

Minoxidil users usually don’t experience many side effects. Topicals can cause some redness, flaking, and irritation. However, eliminating propylene glycol usually resolves the issue. Oral Minoxidil was originally tested and marketed to treat high blood pressure. Because oral medications are systemic, side effects such as a fluctuating heart rate are possible. Side effects are rare, though. Doses of oral Minoxidil prescribed for hair loss are typically significantly lower than for high blood pressure.  

Minoxidil Can Cause Initial Shedding

If you’ve been researching Minoxidil for your hair loss, you may have heard about the “dread shed” that can occur when first using Minoxidil.  Yes, some women find that they lose more hair at first. The reason why is because Minoxidil speeds up your hair’s growth cycle. The resting phase occurs faster than it otherwise would. Everyone doesn’t experience an increase in shedding. However, If you do shed initially, don’t panic. Your hair’s growth cycle will regulate within a few weeks.  

Trying Minoxidil is the Best Way to Determine Whether it Will Work for You

It would be nice if there were a way to know whether Minoxidil will help regrow your hair. A response test has been designed and marketed to do just that. The test measures the amount of sulfotransferase enzyme activity in plucked hair follicles to predict whether or not Minoxidil will be effective. Research indicates that the sulfotransferase activity predicts treatment response with 93 percent sensitivity and 83 percent specificity. (03) There’s a catch, though.  

The test will only help determine if women will respond to two or five percent topical Minoxidil. The test does not indicate whether or not women will potentially respond to higher topical dosages or to oral Minoxidil. It also does not indicate whether Minoxidil will be effective when used with a DHT blocker such as Finasteride or Spironolactone. The best way to know if Minoxidil will work is by trial. It typically takes six to twelve months to see results. 

If you have been diagnosed with female pattern baldness and are thinking about trying Minoxidil, here’s the takeaway. Minoxidil is safe for women to use and has been proven to be an effective treatment for many. Minoxidil often works best with Finasteride, Spironolactone, or another DHT blocker.  A topical with a percentage higher than five or oral Minoxidil will require a prescription. If you have more questions about whether Minoxidil is right for you, Happy Head’s board-certified dermatologists can help. Contact us and our hair growth experts will help select the best solution for you, without a visit to the doctor’s office. 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15034503/

(02) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32851744/

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24773771/

 

Your Guide to the Top Hair Loss Treatments for 2023 (Yes, They Really Work!)

2022 was a big year for advancements in the medical field.  Scientists learned how to track rapidly changing Covid variants, promising medications for prostate cancer were identified, and breakthroughs were made in diabetes management.  JAK inhibitors were found to be successful in helping patients with severe alopecia areata regrow their hair. (01)

We’ve been busy too.  In addition to seeing patients throughout the year, Dr. Ben Behnam and Dr. Sean Behnam, board-certified dermatologists and hair specialists, were behind the scenes developing, testing, and marketing stronger treatments for male and female pattern hair loss based on scientific data and their clinical experience.  

If bald spots, thinning hair, or hairballs in the shower are stressing you out, now is the time to stop the shedding and start regrowing your hair.  Here’s our guide to the Top Hair Loss Treatments for 2023.  We’ll also share the science behind the formulas so you can make smart decisions about the products you use.  

Top Oral Medications for Hair Loss

The most effective hair loss medications are prescription drugs discovered by accident.  During testing for high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia, researchers found that the medicines had a peculiar side effect.  Balding men suddenly started to regrow their hair.  Further research was conducted, and sure enough, the findings were confirmed.  Finasteride is now FDA approved to use by men with male pattern hair loss.  Although all the other medications listed below have been tested for efficacy, they are currently prescribed off-label at low doses.  Oral hair loss medications are easy to take and are relatively inexpensive.    

Oral Minoxidil

Oral Minoxidil was recently touted in the New York Times as a “cheap treatment” that “restores hair in many patients.” (02)  Minoxidil works by opening the blood vessels.  More oxygen flows to the scalp, expanding the blood vessels and enlarging the hair follicles.   Topical liquid or foam works for many people, but it does not work for some.  People who do not respond to the topical formula may have better luck with the pill.  A specific enzyme must be present in the skin and hair roots to convert topical Minoxidil to an active form.  Oral Minoxidil does not need to be converted. 

Oral Finasteride

Low-dose oral Finasteride is a first-line DHT blocker that can be used by both men and women who are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant.  DHT blockers prevent testosterone from converting to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  DHT binds to your hair follicles, makes them shrink during a process called miniaturization, and makes your hair fall out.  When DHT production is blocked, your hair follicles remain healthy.  Oral Finasteride has minimal side effects on women who qualify to take the medication.  Although  not  common, some men report sexual side effects from the pills.  Switching to topical Finasteride is a good solution for men who are concerned.       

Oral Dutasteride

Oral Dutasteride is similar to Finasteride. The main difference is the number of isoenzymes inhibited.  Finasteride inhibits Type 2 isoenzyme of 5a-reductase (5AR).  Dutasteride inhibits Type 1 and Type 2.  5AR is the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  Research indicates that Dutasteride reduces more serum DHT than Finasteride. (03)  Should you skip the Finasteride and go straight to Dutasteride?  Not necessarily.  Finasteride is effective for many users and can be taken at a lower dose.  It’s typically recommended to step up to stronger medications as needed.  Of course, there are always exceptions, so your dermatologist should guide you.  

Oral Spironolactone

Oral Spironolactone, a medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, is used off-label at low doses to treat hair loss.  Spironolactone falls into the category of mineralocorticoid receptors (MRAs).  The medication slows the production of androgen to block DHT production.  It’s usually only prescribed to women because it can cause side effects such as enlarged breasts in men.  

Combination Oral Medications

Over time, dermatologists have discovered that treating male or female pattern hair loss requires multiple approaches working simultaneously.  Many people need a cocktail of medications to stop their hair loss and to grow new hair.  However, taking numerous medications usually isn’t convenient.  That’s where SuperCapsules play a role.  These medications combine a Minoxidil (a vasodilator), Finasteride or Dutasteride (a DHT blocker), and vitamin D. 

Why Vitamin D?  Because the number of people with Vitamin D deficiencies is more significant than you would imagine. Vitamin D deficiency affects about 40 percent of the people who live in the U.S. (04)   Vitamin D is metabolized in the skin by cells that process keratin, the protein found in your hair, nails, and skin.  When your body has a Vitamin D deficiency, your body has trouble regulating hair growth and shedding.

Top Topical Medications for Hair Loss

Oral medications are effective, but they’re not ideal for everyone.  Although rare, oral hair loss medicines can sometimes cause side effects such as low blood pressure or decreased libido.  That doesn’t mean you have to forgo hair loss treatment, though.  Topical treatments can penetrate the scalp and have been found equally effective, without the same risk of side effects. (05) 

All of our oral medications are available in topicals.  For your convenience, topicals are also available in combinations.  After all, it’s much easier to apply one medication than two, three, or four.  Combined topicals also allow ingredients to be added, such as retinoic acid and cortisone.  Retinoic acid improves the absorption of the formula.  Sometimes, topicals that include higher percentages of Minoxidil can cause irritation.  Cortisone proactively alleviates the issue.  If you don’t see the exact formula you need, it’s not a problem.  We can customize a formula for you.  

Can you get topicals over the counter without a prescription?  Minoxidil, yes.  The only catch is that the foam and liquid available at the store is a lower dosage.  Percentages higher than five are only available by prescription.  Topical Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone are only available by prescription.  

Here are the topical formulas available:

Thickening Shampoos & Conditioners

Shopping for the right shampoo and conditioner can be overwhelming.  Store shelves are packed with different options for every hair type.  There are shampoos and conditioners for dry hair, greasy hair, curly hair, straight hair, dandruff, and more.  What do you use if your hair is thinning or falling out?  Well, there’s a plethora of options for that too.  When developing their shampoo and conditioner, Dr. Ben Behnam and Dr. Sean Behnam were very particular about the ingredients they chose.  Here are some of the natural ingredients they selected and why:  

Argan oil 

Research indicates that aragan oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  Aragan oil can protect your hair against elements and make it look shinier.  

Biotin

Biotin, vitamin B7, is known for stimulating keratin production and increasing follicle growth rate.  It was added to help make your hair stronger.  

Collagen

Collagen is used to increase your hair’s ability to build protein.  It can help make your hair longer and thicker.  If you have gray hair, collagen may help improve your hair’s appearance by supporting the hair follicle where your hair’s pigment is produced.  

Keratin

Want smoother, shinier hair?  Keratin will help.  The  hair cuticle absorbs keratin, a structural and protective protein which helps keep your hair under control.  

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is a member of the palm family.  The powder is made from the shrub’s berries.  Saw palmetto not only has anti-inflammatory properties, but it also acts as a DHT blocker.  

Remember that no shampoo or conditioner alone will prevent hair loss or regrow your hair.  The right ones will, however, help keep your hair and scalp healthy and healthy looking. 

Hair Supplements

Nutritional deficiencies, hormonal issues, and stress all contribute to hair loss.  Daily hair supplements with Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Ashwagandha, probiotics, and other natural ingredients included in our hair supplements help offset the effects to give you stronger, healthier hair.  

Researched and Tested Prescription Hair Loss Treatments 

Most people are upset when they realize that they’re losing their hair.  If that’s you, it’s time to usher in the new year with a fresh approach to managing your hair loss.  Thanks to telemedicine, you can quickly, easily, discreetly access the prescription hair loss treatment you need.  Our caring, licensed dermatologists are available to help you along the way.  There’s even a special edition holiday pack to help you get started.  

Remember, it can take six to twelve months to see the full results, so make sure to celebrate your milestones along the way.  You may not think that you’re making much progress.  After all, you see yourself every day.  However, taking photos monthly will make it easier to see new growth.  Cheers to new beginnings!

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31930807/

(02) https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/18/health/minoxidil-hair-loss-pills.html

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472914/

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6075634/

(05) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34634163/