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The Breakdown of Collagen & Hair Growth

You’ve probably heard about collagen. Flip through a magazine or watch an ad for beauty products, and you’ll find a slew of references about collagen’s ability to improve the skin. Collagen works miracles for the skin, making it supple and elastic. But did you know collagen can also boost hair growth?

What Is Collagen?

To be clear, hair strands do not contain collagen. Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, which is different from collagen. Keratin is a hard, fibrous protein that forms the structural building blocks of hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin. (01)

Collagen, on the other hand, is a collection of proteins found in connective tissue like skin and cartilage. These proteins are so abundant that a third of all the protein in the human body is some type of collagen. Internal organs, skin, tendons, parts of our bones, lymph tissue, hair, and nails either contain or rely on collagen for their sturdiness and elasticity.

How Does Collagen Affect Hair Growth?

So while collagen is not a component of the hair shaft itself, it does contain the amino acids essential for keratin production. By providing the necessary building blocks for keratin, collagen is important for stronger and healthier hair. Simmer a pot of soup bones for a few hours, then let the contents cool. A gelatinous film would form on the top, which would consist primarily of collagen. It’s this collagen that gives bones, cartilage, and tendons their bounce and resilience. It’s also essential for healthy hair.

In addition, collagen also keeps hair follicles- which are responsible for producing new hair strands – healthy. Collagen ensures a robust scalp by promoting blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. It’s collagen that helps ensure hair follicles have the ability to follow the natural growth cycle of hair.

Does Supplementing Collagen Help With Hair Growth?

Some studies suggest that collagen supplementation may have positive effects on hair health. In one particular study, participants experiencing a hair loss condition called telogen effluvium were administered collagen-focused nutritional supplements. These participants saw a marked improvement in hair density after 16 weeks of supplementation. (02, 03)

It’s important to note that individual responses to collagen supplements may vary. Factors such as overall diet, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions can influence the effectiveness of collagen supplementation for hair growth. In general, though, collagen supplements can ensure that the body obtains the collagen necessary to maintain and improve hair growth.

How to Add Collagen to Your Diet

Fortunately, you can add collagen to your diet by incorporating a variety of collagen-rich foods. You can also consume nutrients that assist your body in boosting its ability to manufacture collagen. The following are ways to change your diet to boost your collagen:

1. Eat Collagen-Containing Foods

One of the simplest ways to increase your collagen intake is by consuming foods naturally rich in this vital protein. Opt for collagen-rich sources such as bone broth, chicken, fish, and other lean meats. These foods provide amino acids necessary for collagen production, supporting hair growth and reducing hair loss.

2. Use Collagen Supplements

In conjunction with diet changes, you can also obtain more collagen through collagen supplements. Collagen supplements are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid formulas. They offer a convenient way to increase your collagen intake, promoting healthy hair growth. When choosing a supplement, opt for high-quality products that contain hydrolyzed collagen, as it’s better absorbed by the body.

3. Eat More Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays a significant role in collagen synthesis and absorption. Including vitamin C-rich foods in your diet can enhance collagen production, thereby benefiting your hair follicles and strands. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamin C that can be easily incorporated into your meals.

4. Stock Up On Amino Acid-Rich Foods

If proteins like collagen were words, amino acids would be the letters that form the words. Amino acids help the body break down food, grow and repair tissue, and boost the immune system. They also help manufacture collagen. Consuming foods rich in amino acids can help you grow healthy hair. Include foods such as eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts in your diet to ensure an adequate intake of amino acids necessary for adequate hair growth. (04)

5. Go for Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Antioxidants are vital for protecting hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. Therefore, incorporating antioxidant-rich foods can help maintain the health and integrity of your hair. Berries, dark chocolate, spinach, and green tea are excellent sources of antioxidants that can be included in your daily diet.

6. Work in the Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of collagen fibers, thereby supporting healthy skin and hair. Furthermore, these Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate inflammation in the hair follicles and promote an ideal environment for hair growth. To support healthy hair growth, incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. (05)

Eat a Balanced Diet

In addition to specific collagen-rich foods, it’s vital to maintain a well-balanced diet that provides essential nutrients for overall hair health. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. A balanced diet ensures that your body receives the necessary nutrients to support collagen production and maintain healthy hair.

While hair loss can be influenced by various factors, incorporating collagen into your diet can be a beneficial strategy to support healthy hair growth and combat hair loss. By consuming collagen-rich foods, taking collagen supplements, and ensuring an adequate intake of necessary nutrients, you can enhance collagen synthesis in your body, promote hair strength, and improve the overall health of your hair.

Gelatin Versus Collagen

When it comes to promoting hair growth, gelatin and collagen supplements are often considered as potential solutions. While both substances come from animal sources and have similarities, there are some key differences in their composition and affect on hair health.

Gelatin contains collagen, but it is not the same. Gelatin’s a protein-rich substance obtained by boiling animal tissues, such as bones and skin. It contains high amounts of collagen, which is the main structural protein found in the connective tissues of animals.

In terms of hair growth, both gelatin and collagen supplements can provide essential amino acids, such as proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which are crucial for the production of keratin—the protein that forms the structure of hair. These amino acids play a vital role in maintaining healthy hair follicles and promoting hair growth.

One notable difference between gelatin and collagen supplements lies in their preparation and usage. Gelatin is commonly used in cooking and food preparation, as it solidifies when cooled and adds thickness and texture to various dishes. It can be consumed in the form of desserts, gummies, or added to soups and stews.

Collagen supplements, on the other hand, are available in powder or capsule form and are primarily intended for nutritional supplementation. These supplements generally offer a higher concentration of collagen protein compared to gelatin. This increased potency may provide more substantial benefits for hair growth. Collagen supplements are also typically more refined and undergo processing that results in a higher bioavailability, meaning the body can use it more readily than gelatin.

Nutrients for Your Hair by Happy Head

You can’t go wrong by consuming a varied, healthy diet. However, it doesn’t hurt to bolster that diet with nutritional supplementation. Happy Head’s Hair Growth Supplements are formulated by our team of experts for optimal hair growth. Each supplement holds essential microbiomes, vitamins, and minerals to boost collagen production. Our supplements also contain both keratin and collagen to fight thinning hair and prevent shedding. Want more collagen? Let Happy Head help!

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4201279/

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

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8620403/

(04) https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002222.htm

(05) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25573272/

NEW Hair Growth Treatment! Topical Latanoprost, Finasteride & Minoxidil

Once upon a time, not so long ago, if you were destined to lose your hair, there wasn’t much you could do besides accept your fate or shave your head. Thankfully, though, times have changed. Society is more aware of how hair loss affects people aesthetically and emotionally. More research and a wider range of effective prescription hair loss products are available than ever before. If one product isn’t the right fit, there are now others you can try. That’s why Happy Head is proud to add our new hair growth treatment topical Latanoprost, Finasteride, and Minoxidil to our product line.

Discovering Latanoprost’s Ability to Grow Hair

You may have heard the name Latanoprost before. It has been FDA-approved since 1996 as an ocular eye drop to treat glaucoma. When doctors discovered that patients who used the medication began to grow longer, fuller, darker eyelashes as a side effect, Latanoprost was marketed as an eyelash growth solution. “If Latanoprost grows eyelash hair, does it work on the scalp too?” researchers wondered. After testing, it was determined that Latanoprost is indeed effective for treating male and female pattern hair loss and other types of alopecia. Happy Head is one of the first companies to make the medication available for scalp hair loss.

The Science Behind Latanoprost

Latanoprost differs from the other prescription hair loss medications that are currently on the market. It stimulates the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. The anagen phase is the growth phase. Latanoprost helps more hair convert from tiny, thin vellus (think peach fuzz) hair into robust terminal hair that is longer and thicker. When tested on young men with mild androgenetic alopecia, male pattern baldness, Latanoprost increased hair density in approximately 24 weeks.

The Benefit of Combining Latanoprost with Finasteride and Minoxidil

Happy Head’s newest growth treatment contains 0.005 percent Latanoprost, 0.3 percent Finasteride, and 8 percent Minoxidil. The reason is that treating genetic hair loss often requires a cocktail of medications that attack the hair loss from different angles. As we just discussed, Latanoprost jumpstarts the hair growth cycle. Finasteride is a DHT blocker. It prevents testosterone from converting to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and attaching to the hair follicles. If testosterone doesn’t convert, hair isn’t triggered to fall out. Minoxidil is what’s called a vasodilator. It sends oxygen to the hair follicles, enlarging them. New, healthy hair can emerge when the hair follicles are wide open. So, three different medications with different purposes work synergistically to help regrow your hair.

Latanoprost for Alopecia

Is Latanoprost the right solution for any type of alopecia? To date, studies have primarily focused on patients with male and female pattern hair loss. More research needs to be conducted to determine whether the treatment is effective for alopecia areata or other types of alopecia. Not sure what type of alopecia you have? Then, it’s time to visit a board-certified dermatologist for a diagnosis.

How to Use Topical Latanoprost, Finasteride & Minoxidil

Topical hair loss medications are preferred by patients who want to avoid side effects that can accompany oral medications. Each bottle of topical Latanoprost, Finasteride, and Minoxidil comes with a dropper that allows you to measure the exact amount needed and apply it directly to your scalp. The medication is easy to use. Simply fill the dropper twice to the 0.5 ml, align the dropper to your scalp, apply the solution, and rub it in. The most common side effect from topicals is redness and irritation, however, which can easily be avoided by titrating the medication. Simply apply one time per day for the first week, and twice a day the following weeks.

Getting Your Prescription Filled

Topical Latanoprost, Finasteride, and Minoxidil hair growth treatment is only available by prescription. For your convenience, Happy Head offers free online consultations and will fill your prescription if you are a candidate for the medication. Simply complete a short online questionnaire, and a licensed dermatologist will determine whether our new hair growth treatment is a good fit. We also offer customized treatments, so it’s easy to modify formulas to meet individual needs.

Our new hair growth treatment combining Latanoprost with Finasteride and Minoxidil is an innovative option for people experiencing male or female pattern baldness. If you’re interested in getting more information, contact us, and take advantage of our 50 percent off introductory offer.

Nourishing Your Hair with Food: The Power of Cooking for Hair Growth

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Whether it’s the Mediterranean diet, Keto, or gluten-free, what you eat plays a significant role in your health. The food you consume affects everything from your heart to your eyesight. But did you know that food also impacts your hair?

The Role of Nutrition in Hair Growth

Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin. Therefore, ensuring adequate protein intake — and nutrients necessary for making keratin — is essential for healthy hair growth. Protein is the building block of hair, so consuming an adequate amount of protein is a must for hair growth. Amino acids, which make up protein, play a major role in the production of keratin. And it’s keratin that provides each strand of hair with structure and stability. Without enough protein, hair becomes brittle and weak, leading to breakage and hair loss. Additionally, several other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants contribute to maintaining scalp health, promoting follicle strength, and keeping hair growing. (01)

Foods to Feed Your Hair

Healthy hair is not just about using the right shampoo and conditioner. It also involves taking care of your hair from the inside out by eating hair-friendly foods. The following are eight foods that you can add to your diet to promote healthy hair.

1. Eggs

According to data from the U.S. Department of Agricultural, eggs are a great source of protein, biotin, and vitamin D, all nutrients that your scalp and hair need to remain in good health. Along with vitamins A and C, vitamin D is important for hair follicle health, and a deficiency in this vitamin can lead to hair loss. Just remember to opt for healthier ways of cooking eggs, like poaching or boiling. (02) The following recipe for Korean boiled eggs is a tasty twist on a familiar kitchen staple. (03)

Marinated Soy Sauce Eggs

Ingredients:

1 cup soy sauce
1 cup water
¼ cup sugar
3 medium green onions, chopped
2 medium jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
12 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled
3 teaspoons sesame oil

Korean boiled eggs are as simple as marinating your eggs. Combine soy sauce, water, sugar, green onions, jalapeno peppers, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seeds in a large bowl. Stir well to dissolve the sugar, and mix the ingredients thoroughly. Next, place the peeled, hard-boiled eggs into the marinade mixture. Ensure the eggs are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.

Once marinated, remove the eggs from the refrigerator. Slice each egg in half lengthwise and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon some marinade over the eggs to enhance the flavor and provide a glossy appearance. Finally, drizzle the eggs with sesame oil, which adds a nutty aroma and richness. Serve the marinated soy sauce eggs as an appetizer, side dish, or a topping for salads and ramen bowls.

2. Spinach

Dark, leafy greens like spinach are rich in iron, which boosts hair growth and keeps cells oxygenated. Without enough iron, the hair follicles can become starved of oxygen. Iron deficiency, for example, is a common cause of hair loss in women due to low iron levels during pregnancy and other hormonal shifts. Iron deficiency has also been a risk factor for the following hair loss conditions: alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, and telogen effluvium. (04, 05)

Spinach is also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which help to produce the sebum (an oily substance) required to moisturize the scalp and hair. Add spinach to your weekly dinners through this famous cookbook author Ina Garten’s side dish recipe. (06)

Sauteed Baby Spinach

1 1/2 pounds baby spinach leaves
2 tablespoons good quality olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped garlic (about 6 cloves)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Lemon wedges
Sea salt or kosher salt (optional)

First, rinse the baby spinach leaves thoroughly in cold water to ensure they are clean. Use a salad spinner to remove excess water, leaving some light moisture on the leaves. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to let it brown.

Add all the spinach to the pot, along with the kosher salt and black pepper. Toss the spinach with the garlic and oil until well coated. Cover the pot and cook for 2 minutes. Remove the lid and increase the heat to high. Continue cooking the spinach for another minute until all the spinach is wilted, all the while stirring.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sautéed spinach to a serving bowl. Top the spinach with the unsalted butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkling of sea salt or kosher salt, if desired. Serve the sautéed baby spinach immediately while hot. It makes a delicious side dish or a healthy addition to salads, pasta, or grain bowls.

3. Sweet Potatoes

Try sweet potatoes if you’re looking for a simple addition to make your diet a little healthier and promote hair growth. This delicious and colorful starch is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamin C, encouraging collagen production and hair growth. One of the most convenient and delicious ways to cook sweet potatoes is by “baking” them!

“Baked” Sweet Potatoes

You’d be mistaken if you think baked sweet potatoes are like regular ones. Sweet potatoes are a vivid orange color and are – well – sweet. To bake these scrumptious gems, start with any number of sweet potatoes and start by pricking the sweet potatoes all over with a fork to create small holes. Place the prepared sweet potatoes in a microwavable dish and cover the dish with plastic wrap or a microwavable plate. This covering helps to trap steam and facilitate the cooking process. Microwave the sweet potatoes on HIGH for 5 minutes. (07)

Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and uncover it. To ensure even cooking, turn the sweet potatoes over. Then, cover the dish again with plastic wrap or a microwavable plate and return it to the microwave. Continue microwaving on HIGH until the sweet potatoes are tender. Cooking time usually takes about five more minutes, but remember that the exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potatoes. Top with anything from sour cream, Greek yogurt, or bacon for added flavor.

4. Avocados

Avocado isn’t just a great addition to toast; it’s also chock full of omega-3 fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, vitamin C, and collagen. The nutrients in avocado decrease chronic inflammation, keeping your scalp and hair follicles ready for hair growth. Furthermore, the avocado’s anti-inflammatory properties are not only good for your hair — they’re good for your heart. Research indicates that avocados reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. (08)

Easy Avocado Toast

To make delicious avocado toast, start by toasting your bread to your desired level of crispiness. Remove the avocado halves from their peel, keeping them intact. Drizzle the toast with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and let it cool slightly. Place an avocado half on each slice of toast and gently mash it with a fork, keeping it chunky. Sprinkle more salt, add pepper, and squeeze citrus over the top. Customize with garnishes like herbs, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese. Cut larger slices in half and serve immediately. (09)

Avocado toast is a versatile and satisfying meal or snack for any time of the day. Toast the bread, mash the avocado, season with salt and olive oil, and add your preferred toppings. Enjoy this simple and flavorful dish for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner, and get creative with different combinations to suit your taste.

5. Nuts

Like avocados, nuts are a source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals beneficial for healthy hair growth. Walnuts, for example, contain significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and vitamin E, all essential for healthy hair growth. Almonds also contain plant-based protein, which allows the body to produce the building blocks for hair. (10)

Candied Almonds

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup water
2 cups whole almonds
1 cup white sugar

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Combine the white sugar, water, and ground cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Add the whole almonds to the saucepan and continue to cook and stir until the liquid evaporates, coating the almonds with a syrupy glaze. This will give the almonds a delicious cinnamon flavor. Pour the glazed almonds onto the prepared baking sheet.

Use two forks to separate clumps and spread them into an even layer. Allow the glazed almonds to cool for about 15 minutes. The glaze will harden during this time, and the almonds will become crisp. These cinnamon-glazed almonds can be enjoyed as a snack or a tasty topping for salads, desserts, or breakfast dishes. Prepare a batch and savor their irresistible cinnamon flavor and satisfying crunch.

6. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, but this yogurt comes with another benefit — probiotics. For example, research shows that mice fed beneficial probiotics developed shinier and thicker fur than mice who were not fed probiotics. This type of yogurt is also high in vitamin B5, which helps to improve blood flow to the scalp, increasing the chances for healthy hair growth.

Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bowl

Anyone wanting a quick, no-cook breakfast should always have Greek yogurt on hand. Greek yogurt makes a great base for any healthy breakfast bowl. Add your favorite granola or nut blend, fruits like blueberries or bananas, and drizzle over some honey for a little sweetness. The yogurt adds some creaminess and makes a healthy breakfast taste decadent. (11)

7. Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of those all-important omega-3 fatty acids that keep hair healthy. This fatty — and delicious — fish contains almost three times the amount of omega-3 fatty acids per serving than other types of fish. Wild salmon, in particular, has a whopping 4,504 mg per serving of Omega-3. In comparison, anchovies only contain 1,200 mg per serving. (12)

Salmon Snap Peas Recipe

If you want more salmon to your diet, consider adding Harvard Health’s pan-roasted salmon recipe to your dinner rotation. To make this dish, you will need six salmon filets with skin on, each weighing around 6 ounces, as well as some fresh ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, snap peas, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, mint, salt, and black pepper.

Mix the minced ginger, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Then, place the salmon in a deep dish and coat it with the marinade by tossing it lightly. Let the salmon sit at room temperature while you cook the snap peas. (13)

Next, boil 2 quarts of water in a saucepan and add the snap peas. Cook them for about 2 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then drain them in a colander and refresh them in cold water. After draining them again, blot them dry on paper towels.

To cook the salmon, start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Place the salmon steaks in the pan with their coating facing down, leaving the pan partially covered. Depending on how thick the salmon filets are, cook for around 5 to 6 minutes on the first side. When the skin is crispy, and the flesh begins to turn opaque, flip the salmon over with a spatula and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until it is just cooked through.

Once the salmon is fully cooked, arrange the filets on a serving platter and place the snap eas on top. Finally, whisk together the ingredients for the mint dressing, including the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, chopped mint, salt, and black pepper. Serve the salmon filets with the cooked snap peas and drizzle the mint dressing over both.

Feed Your Hair by Growing Your Health

While there’s no magic bullet that can remedy hair loss, what you eat does play a significant role in the health of your hair. A balanced diet that includes protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (such as A and C), and minerals (such as iron and zinc) provides the foundation for stronger, thicker hair. And even if a diet full of leafy greens, nuts, and fish don’t result in Chris Hemsworth-like locks, you’ll find that good nutrition isn’t just about looking good but also feeling good from within.

Whether you’re combating hair loss or you’re looking to prevent it, Happy Head’s Hair Growth Supplements have what you need to augment your diet. With hair-friendly ingredients like probiotics, collagen, keratin, and vitamins and minerals, Happy Head’s supplements help bridge any dietary gaps you might have regarding your hair. Purchase our Hair Growth Supplements or hair care products today. Or answer a few questions and schedule a consultation to develop an individualized program to regrow your hair!

Resources:

(01) https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6

(02) https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/748967/nutrients

(03) https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/284468/korean-marinated-hard-boiled-eggs/

(04) https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(05)04745-6/fulltext

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4828511/

(06) https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/garlic-sauteed-spinach-recipe-1944598

(07) https://www.southernliving.com/quick-baked-sweet-potatoes-7109849
(08) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318620

(09) https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019420-avocado-toast

(10) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748761/

(11) https://thedomesticdietitian.com/greek-yogurt-breakfast-bowl-mediterranean-diet-recipe/

(12) https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/pan-roasted-salmon/

How Does Happiness Lead to Hair Growth?

Does your hair feel thinner during times of severe stress? If it does, you can rest assured that you’re not imagining things. According to medical research, stress can cause hair loss. So if you want to keep as much hair on your head as possible, it’s essential to maintain your happiness and keep your stress levels to a minimum.

The Science Behind Hair Growth

Hair plays a significant role throughout lore. From Samson and his power-imbued hair to Repunzel and her long braids, hair has always been the stuff of magic and mystery. However, current research has cracked the code about human hair. It turns out that there’s no sorcery behind how hair grows. Hair growth is all about science.

What is Hair Made of?

Human hair is not alive. The hair shaft that we see and touch is made up of dead, keratinized cells that have been pushed up and out of the hair follicle. On the other hand, the hair follicle and scalp are living structures responsible for producing and nourishing the hair shaft.

The scalp contains blood vessels and nerves that provide nutrients and sensation to the hair and skin. Furthermore, the scalp includes sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. These follicles are structures responsible for producing hair.

Therefore, while the hair strands are not alive, they’re affected by a variety of factors, such as diet, medical issues, environmental factors, and chemical treatments, which can impact the hair’s health and growth.

Your Hair’s Growth Cycle

A person grows and loses hair strands through a natural growth cycle. The growth cycle of hair consists of three primary phases (01):

Anagen Phase
Catagen Phase
Telogen Phase

During the anagen phase, which may last from two to eight years, hair grows from the follicle. The length of this phase determines the maximum length of hair growth. At any give time, about 90% of the average person’s hair is in the anagen phase. In the catagen phase, which lasts about two to six weeks, the follicles shrink, and hair growth slows.

Finally, during the telogen phase, which lasts about three months, the hair is shed, and the follicle remains dormant until the next anagen phase begins. New hair then replaces the hair shed during the telogen phase, starting the cycle anew.

Good overall health and nutrition allow hair to grow at its peak rate and maintain its natural growth cycle. Each strand of hair on the head can be at any differing point of the growth cycle, limiting the shedding that can occur at once.

What is Typical Hair Loss?

On average, it is normal to lose between 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the typical hair-shedding process from the growth cycle. (02) However, if hair loss exceeds this amount, it may indicate an underlying condition such as alopecia or telogen effluvium.

Alopecia is a condition that causes hair loss and is due to a variety of factors, some of which include genetics, autoimmune disorders, or hormonal imbalances. Telogen effluvium is a condition where atypical hair shedding occurs due to a disruption in the hair growth cycle. This can be caused by severe nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, illness – or significant stress.

The Link Between Happiness and Hair Growth

The connection between mental and physical health is undeniable. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for example, depression ups the risk for chronic medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Similarly, these same chronic conditions can increase the risk of mental health problems. (03)

As evidence of this connection, a study was published in the American Psychological Association’s research journal Health Psychology. The study of 15,000 participants found that participants with severe cases of anxiety and depression were: (04)

65% are more likely to have heart condition
50% are more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure
87% are more likely to develop arthritis

So, because of this close interplay between mental and physical health, it’s no surprise that mental health can affect hair growth.

How Does Stress Impact Hair Growth?

Stress is a common experience that can affect many aspects of our health, including our hair growth. Stress can affect hair growth in a variety of ways, including altering the hair growth cycle, causing hair loss or thinning, and affecting the quality and texture of the hair.

Stress Disrupts the Hair Growth Cycle

One of the ways that stress can affect hair growth is by affecting the hair growth cycle. During periods of stress, the body releases stress hormones such as cortisol, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the hair follicle. Stress can push the hair follicle to enter the telogen phase earlier than usual, leading to increased hair shedding and thinning.

Hair Follicles Under Stress

Experiencing chronic stress can also directly impact the hair follicle’s health. For example, stress can cause inflammation in the scalp, which can damage the hair follicle and inhibit hair growth. Stress can also affect the blood flow to the scalp, impacting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicle, leading to weaker and thinner hair.

Stress Weakens Your Strands

In addition to affecting the hair follicle, stress can also impact the quality and texture of the hair. Stress can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage and split ends. This can be exacerbated by hair care practices such as excessive heat styling or chemical treatments, which can further damage the hair.

It is also important to note that stress can exacerbate existing hair conditions, such as alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss. Stress can trigger or worsen this condition, leading to more severe hair loss.

Stress May Cause An Urge to Pull Out Hair

Have you ever heard anyone say they were so anxious that they were “pulling out their hair”? The saying stems from a condition called trichotillomania. This condition is an irresistible urge to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other body parts. For people diagnosed with trichotillomania, pulling out hair reduces feelings of anxiety, discomfort, or frustration. (05)

Uncontrolled stress adversely impacts health in general. Specifically, though, it may also cause you to lose hair. Happiness can’t cure everything, but it may help prevent hair loss. In short, managing stress and fostering happiness can prevent or slow hair loss.

Tips for Cultivating Happiness and Healthy Hair

Managing stress is vital to maintaining healthy hair growth. The following are several strategies that can help to reduce stress and promote healthy hair growth.

Exercise. Not only does regular physical help to manage stress, but it also improves blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.

Mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness practices such as meditation can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may benefit hair health.

Adequate sleep. Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health, including hair health. Sleep deprivation can increase stress levels and lead to hair loss.

Healthy diet. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and biotin can help to promote healthy hair growth.

Avoiding harsh hair treatments. Excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles can all damage the hair and exacerbate stress-related hair loss.

Seeking professional help. If you are experiencing excessive hair loss or other hair concerns, it is important to seek professional help from a dermatologist or hair specialist who can get to the root of the issue. They’ll help you find a solution that works for you, whether it’s a topical treatment, oral solution, or a combination of both. Furthermore, your mental health can also benefit from speaking with a therapist to help manage chronic stress.

Managing stress and fostering happiness isn’t just good for your hair, it’s good for your health. Making lifestyle changes that create calmness, promote physical health, and allow for sufficient rest encourages happiness and keeps more hair on your head.

Get Happier With Happy Head

A healthier head of hair can boost your self-confidence and improve your well-being. Happy Head’s proprietary hair formula is customized to fit each and every customer. Developed by our in-house world-renowned dermatologists, Happy Head’s formulas improve hair growth with minimal side effects. Contact us and fill out our questionnaire to start growing your hair back now and get happy with Happy Head!

Resources:

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

https://journals.biologists.com/jcs/article/119/3/391/29231/The-hair-cycle

(02) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding#:~:text=It’s%20normal%20to%20shed%20between,this%20condition%20is%20telogen%20effluvium.

(03) https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm

(04) https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2018-63710-001

(05) https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/expert-answers/stress-and-hair-loss/faq-20057820

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/

How to Make Hair Grow Faster: 2 Essential Facts You Should Know

How fast does your hair grow? If you’re anxious about your hair, your answer might be, “Not fast enough!” Although you can’t grow long hair overnight, there are some steps you can take to make your hair grow faster. Knowing the basic facts about hair growth can help you make better choices regarding your hair.

Fact No. 1: Growth Starts at the Scalp

When it comes to the health of their hair, most people concentrate on the hair itself and overlook the skin on their scalp. The scalp is more than something your hair adheres to, however. It’s like soil for your hair. Just like you can’t grow plants in poor soil, you can’t grow healthy hair on an unhealthy scalp!

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, humans have an average of 100,000 hair follicles with each follicle containing one strand of hair. Blood flow throughout the scalp feeds hair follicles, and without proper blood flow, the appropriate balance of microorganisms, and stable oil production the hair follicles fail to produce healthy hair. Hair grows from the root, not from the tips. The follicle contains a hair bulb that actively grows the strand of hair. (01, 02)

A scalp without healthy blood flow or nutrients is like infertile soil, and can result in weak hair or a loss of hair. Furthermore, each follicle produces sebum to moisturize and strengthen the scalp, creating the right pH balance to keep harmful microorganisms in check. So, follicles need a good balance of sebum and the right nutrients to do their job. Alopecia areata, for example, is an immune disorder that targets hair follicles, compromising their ability to function and causing patchy hair loss as a result. (03, 04)

What You Can Do:

To keep your hair growing as quickly as possible, take care of your scalp. And to keep your scalp in good condition the following is recommended:

Avoid hair products with drying agents like alcohol, sulfates, alcohols, or fragrances as these can strip away natural oils and irritate the scalp.
Practice sun protection for your scalp by using a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on any visible portions of your skin and scalp.
Stay clear of harsh chemicals like dye and bleach, as these can cause scalp injuries.
Gently massage the scalp while shampooing to increase circulation.
Eat a nutritious diet. Nourishing your scalp by consuming foods rich in hair-friendly vitamins and minerals may help boost hair growth. The following are examples of foods that encourage hair growth:
- High-quality protein-rich foods
- Food high in biotin like eggs, almonds, and avocado.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, zinc, and B vitamins.
- Cysteine contains foods like garlic, poultry, brussel sprouts, and yogurt.

Fact No. 2: Hair Has a Growth Cycle

Skin cells form through continuous division, with new cells eventually pushing old cells up and out. Similar to skin cells, hair grows through division on a cyclical growth pattern. Individual strands of hair go through a rapid phase of growth and slower phases, then eventually fall out. Each hair will not stay on your head forever and will naturally fall away from the hair follicle at some point, where another hair will typically grow in its place. These are the three primary growth phases of your hair.

Anagen Phase

During the anagen phase, also known as the “Growth Phase,” the hair emerges from the follicle. Consisting of proteins and keratin, hair grows and sebaceous glands condition the hair during this time. Hair grows at an average rate of about 6 inches every year. About 80% of hair is in the anagen phase, which can last about 2 to 8 years. (02) Conditions like androgenic alopecia occur during the anagen phase, shortening the growth cycle of hair and impairing healthy hair growth. (05)

Catagen Phase

In contrast to the anagen phase, the catagen phase is a brief period that lasts only about 10 days, although sometimes can remain up to 4 to 6 weeks. During the catagen phase, which accounts for 1 to 2 percent of hair, growth stops and the hair follicle shrinks. The part of the follicle that nourishes the hair shuts down to rest. (02)

It’s during the catagen phase that club hair forms. Club hairs are the final state of an attached hair and is a natural part of a hair’s growth cycle. A keratin ball forms at the end of a strand of hair (club hair), keeping it in place until the strand is shed and a new growth cycle begins. If enough club hairs fall out at the same time, hair may appear less full.

Health conditions like hypothyroidism, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies can cause more club hairs to form than usual, which then fall out around the same time and creates thinner hair. During this phase and the next –the telogen phase – hairs are vulnerable to tugging and pulling and may easily fall out, like in a condition called traction alopecia. (02)

Telogen Phase

The telogen phase is the resting phase, when hair falls out of the follicle. Lasting about 2 to 3 months, the dermal papilla rests during the telogen phase. As the dermal papilla rests, no nutrients are supplied to the hair — causing the hair to fall out and preventing further growth. The tail end of the telogen phase is called the “exogen phase,” where hair falls out of the follicle. Roughly 15 percent of hair is in the telogen phase at any given time, with the scalp shedding an average of 100 hairs a day. (02)

If a disruption occurs in hair growth at any point in the cycle, the change can affect more hairs than is usual — placing more hairs into the catagen or telogen phase at the same time. Therefore, more than the typical amount of hair sheds all at once. Telogen effluvium is one such example of a hair loss condition that occurs because of stressors like illness or trauma during the telogen phase.

What to Do:

Accept some loss of hair. Knowing that shedding roughly 100 hairs a day is part of the normal growth cycle can keep you from worrying unnecessarily about hair loss.
Because hair grows from the root, trimming your hair will not speed up hair growth. However, trimming your hair every 2 months can keep your hair strong by preventing split ends and breakage.
Avoid tight fitting headgear if at all possible.
Be aware of how you handle your hair, especially when you’re anxious. Anxiety-related conditions like trichotillomania (an irresistible urge to pull or tug at hair) can result in bald patchy areas and disrupt the growth stages of hair. Prevent yourself from picking or rubbing at your scalp and hair.
A cold or lukewarm shower keeps hair follicles tight and therefore more likely to hold on to hair, especially during the telogen phase. Hot water, on the other hand, can encourage follicles to shed their hair and should be avoided.

Know When to Get Assistance

There’s no magic wand that will suddenly grow hair, but following the recommendations above and establishing healthy hair care habits can help you keep as much of the hair that you have. If you’re doing all you can to care for your scalp and you’re still experiencing slow hair growth, consult with your physician. The solution might just be a prescription away!

Resources:

(01) https://www.aad.org/public/parents-kids/healthy-habits/parents/kids/hair-grows

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

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6369642/

(04) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia(05) https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/androgenetic-alopecia/#causes

Hair Therapy Podcast Featuring Hair Loss Specialist Dr. Ben Behnam

Dr. Ben Behnam, Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist, hair loss specialist, and co-founder of Happy Head prescription grade hair loss solutions, was recently a guest on The Hair Therapy Podcast with Kate Holohan. The podcast was loaded with information about the causes of hair loss and treatment options. It’s amazing how many options both men and women suffering from hair loss now have. If you missed it or are looking for a recap, we’re sharing the highlights from the discussion below. You can find the full podcast here.

It’s No Longer Taboo to Talk About Hair Loss

Thanks to bloggers and influencers, it’s easier than ever for people to come forward with their hair loss and talk honestly about their issues. People are showing candid photos of their alopecia on Instagram and other social media sites so others can follow them and say, “Hey, it’s not just me. Other people are losing their hair also.” They share what works for them, and they are talking more openly. That’s really good to see.

Women are Seeking Hair Loss Treatment Too

The ratio of male to female patients that we’re seeing in our office has also changed over the years. Five to seven years ago, about 80 percent of our patients were men. We rarely had female patients make appointments to address their hair loss. Now, our patient base is almost about 50-50. A lot of women are currently seeking treatment, which is wonderful.

Men are more likely to accept that they’re going to go bald. We have Michael Jordan to thank for that. About ten years ago, he shaved his head, making the look popular for guys. But not too many women I know will plan to shave their heads and say, “I’m excited about this.”

Losing Your Hair Can be Devastating

Hair at every age and every level matters because it’s part of who you are. I see my patients affected socially, emotionally, and even economically. And honestly, patients’ mentality is very important. Some of my patients already have anxiety. When hair loss becomes another trigger, it makes the anxiety and hair loss even worse.

When patients start to see hair regrowth, it helps them feel better about themselves. They get the boost of confidence they need to become more emotionally stable.

Early Hair Loss Treatment Can Lead to a Better Outcome

There are two ways you can lose your hair. One, it’s going to fall out. Two, is due to miniaturization. Miniaturization is when the hair follicles literally shrink. As the hair follicles shrink, the hair itself shrinks as well. We have a big magnifier in our office, so we can actually show patients what the shrinking looks like. Now, if you allow too much shrinking, then your hair goes to the point of no return. So, if you can do something to revive the follicle, you can reverse the aging process.

Hair Loss in Men and Women Happens for Many Different Reasons

Many patients are genetically predisposed to hair loss, but they don’t know it. Their hair is perfectly fine, and all of a sudden a stressful event such as a divorce or a bad break-up occurs, activating the underlying genetic predisposition.

In some cases,Telogen Effluvium occurs. Typically, 90 percent of your hair is in the anagen phase, which is a growth phase. Only five to ten percent is in the telogen phase, which is a resting phase when your hair falls out. When people experience trauma, about 50 percent of their hair can shift into that telogen phase. That’s why when some women experience a traumatic event they lose 50 to 60 percent of their hair in six months.

Other hair loss triggers include:

Rapid weight loss
Illness (Thyroid, Covid, etc.)
Hormonal changes from pregnancy or menopause
Vitamin deficiencies (Vitamin D and iron are the most common)
Smoking & vaping
Poor diet with too many processed foods
Playing with or tugging on your hair
Bleaching and other harsh chemical treatments
Stress

Stress Wreaks Havoc on Your Hair

Stress is one of the hair loss triggers we, unfortunately, see all the time. We’ve especially seen this during Covid.

My patients tell me all the time, “When I get mad and angry, I lose my hair.” I could never find a scientific reason until I came across the Scalp Tension Theory. Most people, even dermatologists, have not heard of it. The theory is that when you tense up, and you can really see this on a guy who’s balding or who is bald, you turn red, the scalp muscles tense, and your blood vessels constrict so blood does not flow to your scalp.

Studies have shown that when you have a lack of blood to your scalp, a few things happen:

Less nutrition goes to your hair
No oxygen or decreased oxygen goes to your hair
Less Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a form of testosterone, is produced, resulting in hair loss.

The Scalp Tension Theory has been tested with Botox injections into the scalp. Studies have been conducted over the past 20 years, but nobody talks about them. A recent study that was conducted on women confirmed that the theory is correct. When Botox was injected into the scalp every six months, the muscles relaxed, blood flow to the scalp increased, and growth was observed.

Minoxidil is an Effective Hair Growth Treatment

Minoxidil is a blood pressure medication that is a vasodilator. It works a bit like Botox. It increases the blood flow to the scalp, which is how it makes hair grow.

Initially, Minoxidil was only available as an oral medication. Today, topical two and five percent formulas are available over-the-counter under the name Rogaine. I don’t recommend the two percent any more for women. Instead, I recommend that women use the five percent for men twice per day. In clinical studies, 48 percent of female patients see significant hair growth.

One of the important things you need to know about Minoxidil is that you have to keep using it. Once you start, you have to use it forever.

There’s a Secret to Applying Rogaine, Minoxidil, and other Topical Treatments

To make Rogaine work better, I recommend a derma roller. I find derma rollers especially effective for womens’ frontal hairline areas.

A derma roller is just a roller with about 540 spikes at the tip. It creates holes in the scalp, and the topical solution penetrates through those holes to give better results. We tell our patients to wet their hair and then gently roll back and forth, left and right, for a few minutes. Don’t hold it in one place in one area because that could cause scarring. You don’t have to go very deep either. We recommend just .25, a very mild depth.

I like the electronic derma roller as well as the derma stamp. With the derma stamp, you’re just stamping the medication on, which is less likely to drag your hair out.

There are Ways to Reduce Irritation from Topical Treatment

One of the most common side effects of Minoxidil is irritation. This is because alcohol is in the formula and can be drying. Some sensitive people experience redness and flaking. The Minoxidil we use in Happy Head is prescription-grade at six percent for women and eight percent for men, which is higher than the over-the-counter doses. To minimize irritation, we added an aloe base and a small amount of topical steroid to Happy Head.

We have a few tips we tell our patients if they still get irritated:

Wash off the topical Minoxidil after one or two hours. You don’t have to use it all day to be effective.
Purchase a topical serum from Amazon to use
Use a leave-in-conditioner

I also recommend easing into using topical medications, so your skin has time to adjust. Make a calendar. Week one, only use it on Monday. Week two, use it on Monday and Friday. Week three, use it on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Go slowly, and remember it’s not a race.

It’s Common to Need a Multi-treatment Approach to Reverse Hair Loss

Some people can see hair growth from just one medication, but it’s not unusual to need multiple prescriptions simultaneously. We call it the kitchen sink approach when we strategically use a few different treatment options at the same time to get optimal results. That’s what Happy Head, a hair growth formula that my brother and I created, is designed to do. It combines multiple medications, Minoxidil, Finasteride, retinoic acid and hydrocortisone, in an aloe formula to work better than just one single prescription. Since patients’ needs vary, the solution can be customized.

Clinical Studies Tell Us that Finasteride Promotes Hair Growth

Finasteride, an ingredient we include in Happy Head, is a prostate medication used off-label to promote hair growth. Both oral and topical formulas are available. Finasteride works by blocking testosterone from converting to DHT in your scalp. Documented clinical studies prove that oral and topical Finasteride is highly effective for treating both male and female pattern baldness.

Like the other medications we’re discussing, Finasteride can be customized for each patient. Make sure you talk to your doctor to find out if Finasteride is right for you. It is not safe to use if you are a woman of childbearing age. Some men also experience side effects such as decreased libido when they take Finasteride orally. Studies show that the topical formula could reduce the risk of sexual side effects.

As mentioned previously, I always recommend starting slowly and working your way up to full dosage.

Topical Hair Growth Treatments Like Happy Head Do Work

I have patients come back six months after their initial visits and tell me they don’t see any improvement. I take a photo, and compare it to the previous one, and I swear that some patients have had so much hair growth that it’s unbelievable. It’s difficult to see the progress because you can’t see the day-to-day changes. Photos help, though, and patients are often shocked to see how thin their hair was before treatment and how thick it is now. I recommend taking photos monthly and monitoring progress over time.

Focus on Being the Best Version of Yourself

It’s difficult not to compare your hair to other people’s, but you really can’t. Everyone’s hair is different. If you have fine hair, you will always have fine hair. That won’t change. The important thing to remember is that you want to have the best hair that you can have.

About Dr. Ben Behnam

Dr. Ben Behnam specializes in medical hair loss management and medicine. He practices in Los Angeles, California, with his twin brother, Dr. Sean Behnam, who is also a board-certified physician, specializing in hair transplants. The brothers have had their own clinic on the westside of LA called Dermatology and Hair Restoration since 2009.

About Happy Head Prescription Grade Hair Loss Solutions

Two years ago, Dr. Ben Behnam and Dr. Sean Behnam launched the Happy Head website. Happy Head was designed to make it easier for people to see doctors online and access prescription grade topical hair loss products such as Finasteride.

Happy Head solutions can be purchased as is or can be customized to individual patients’ needs. Since the medications are only available via prescription, doctors are available to review each patient’s case. The process is fast, easy, and personalized.
We’re pleased to offer patients who visit www.happyhead.com a coupon for 60 percent off of their first purchase. Be sure to check us out and let us know if we can answer any questions.