Tag Archive for: hair loss

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

Nourishing foods that promote hair growth as recommended by Happy Head dermatologists.

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/

 

Patients Claim That Ozempic Causes Hair Loss. Should You Be Concerned?

Woman thinking about the side effects of Ozempic as her hair becomes thin over time.

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Monjaro are trendy new weight-loss drugs that have been sensationalized by Hollywood’s elite. The medications, originally marketed to treat Type 2 diabetes, also help people drop unwanted pounds. Over time, however, users have discovered an alarming side effect that isn’t listed on the medications’ labels or inserts. Not only are users shedding weight, but they’re also claiming that they’re shedding hair. Is what people are saying true, or is it a misconception? Let’s talk about the claims that Ozempic causes hair loss and whether you should be concerned. 

The History of Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a drug that was initially tested and FDA-approved for diabetes in 2017. During clinical trials, researchers observed that the medication caused noticeable weight loss. Semaglutide was then tested among 4.500 participants who didn’t have diabetes but were overweight or obese. Results indicated that compared to the placebo group, people who took Semaglutide had significant weight loss. (01) Semaglutide was then FDA-approved for weight loss in 2021. Although Ozempic is the brand name many people are most familiar with, Ozempic is only FDA-approved for diabetes. The brand Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss. The medications tend to be expensive since insurance often doesn’t cover the cost of using them for weight loss.  

The Difference Between Ozempic, Wegoy, and Monjaro 

Ozempic and Wegovy are the same medications. The only difference is that Wegovy is available in higher dosages. Monjaro is a newer medication, FDA-approved for diabetes in 2022. Like Ozempic, Monjaro is used off-label for weight loss. Monjaro belongs to the same class of drugs as Ozempic and Wegovy called incretin mimetics. The main difference is that Monjaro affects two receptors, GIP and GLP-1, while Ozempic and Wegovy only act on GLP-1 receptors. Monjaro is considered more effective, but is reported to have more side effects. All three medications are administered as weekly injections. 

Understanding the Claims. Does Ozempic Really Cause Hair Loss?

Many alarming reports about side effects are being shared via social media. Ozempic face, Ozempic butt, and hair loss are the ones most concerning to people. But, are the claims valid? 

Hair loss isn’t listed as a side effect on the weight loss medications’ profiles. However, in clinical trials for weight loss, close to six percent of people who took the highest dose reported alopecia, compared to the one percent who received the placebo. What does that mean? It’s important to put the information into perspective. Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, issued a statement to NBC News that the hair loss people experience is typically temporary. According to the company, alopecia isn’t associated with the medication. It’’s associated with weight loss, which has been documented in other obesity trials over time. (02) 

The Association Between Weight Loss and Hair Loss

Some people who use Ozempic and other weight loss medications drop pounds much faster than their bodies are prepared to handle. Changes in hormonal levels and nutritional deficiencies can occur. When the body gets shocked like that, the hair growth cycle can get interrupted, and temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium can result. The higher the dosage, and the more sudden the hair loss, the more likely hair loss will occur. Patients who have had bariatric surgery have also reported concerns about hair loss. So, alopecia isn’t necessarily related to the medications, it’s more likely linked to weight loss, no matter what method you use to drop weight. 

Telogen Effluvium is Temporary

Telogen effluvium occurs when hair normally in the growth phase shifts suddenly into a resting stage. That’s what causes rapid shedding. Telogen effluvium can occur three to four months after weight loss and usually lasts for up to six months. As peoples’ bodies adjust to the weight change, hair loss usually subsides within nine months and grows back on its own. When dermatologists suspect a person is experiencing telogen effluvium from weight loss, they typically take a wait-and-see approach. 

What You Can Do While You Wait for Your Hair to Grow Back

First of all, try not to panic. Waiting for your hair to grow back can feel like waiting for paint to dry. It takes time, and you can’t rush it. In the meanwhile, you can take a few steps to help the process along. First, ensure that you’re eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. Protein is the primary building block for your hair. Make sure you’re eating plenty along with fresh fruits and vegetables. You may want to check with your doctor to ensure that you don’t have any iron, Vitamin D, or other deficiencies contributing to your hair loss. If so, supplements may be recommended. Hair growth supplements containing Vitamin A and Vitamin D combined with collagen, probiotics, and saw palmetto to support hair growth from the inside are available.  Thickening shampoos and conditioners with argan oil, biotin, and keratin are good options to help make hair stronger, shinier, and healthier while it regrows. 

Other Types of Alopecia 

If you hear people claim that Ozempic or other weight loss medications cause male or female pattern baldness, alopecia areata, or any other type of alopecia, remember this. It’s possible but not likely unless you are already predisposed to the condition. 

Male and female pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia, is inherited. It occurs when your body produces Testosterone and converts it into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which attacks the hair follicles. With that in mind, The Dermatology Times believes that it’s possible that hormonal changes from rapid weight loss can result in androgenetic alopecia, but does not share any specific cases.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body attacks the hair follicles. The condition can be triggered by stress. There are documented cases of alopecia areata that were triggered by amphetamines used for weight loss. (03) However, cases due to Ozempic, Wegovy, or Monjaro have not been documented.

If you’re concerned, it’s always a good idea to consult your dermatologist. Even if you are just experiencing telogen effluvium, you will get peace of mind that you don’t have a condition that needs medical attention. 

Ozempic, Wegovy, Monjaro, and other weight loss medications are reportedly causing hair loss. In most cases, weight loss is to blame, not the actual drugs. If you’re taking one of these medications and have noticed thinning or shedding, it’s understandable to want to know the cause. Most of the time, the hair loss is temporary and will grow back on its own. If you are unsure of the reason, however, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is always a good idea. You should rule out conditions such as male or female pattern baldness and alopecia areata that require treatment.

If your hair loss does require medication, Happy Head offers the strongest FDA- approved prescription hair loss treatments available. We offer oral and topical Minoxidil, Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone. The medications can be customized based on your specific needs. Happy Head is able to add what you want and remove what you don’t need. Best of all, no prescription is necessary. Just fill out a simple form to share your medical history, and one of our dermatologists licensed to practice in your state will review your case. Prescriptions are ordered online and delivered straight to your door. 

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9354513/

(02) https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/weight-loss-drugs-and-hair-loss-rcna79798

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6984043/

 

What You Need to Know About Thyroid Imbalances & Hair Loss

Friends sitting together talking over health and hair loss. It's important to look into the treatments you're taking and what side effects they can have over time like hair loss.

Your hair is noticeably thinning, and it’s stressing you out. So, you visit your dermatologist, and they order blood work, including markers for Thyroid Stimulating Hormones (TSH), T3, T4, and thyroid antibody tests. Why are they doing that? What does your thyroid have to do with the strands you’ve been cleaning out of the sink each morning? Is there something more sinister causing your hair loss than you thought?  Before you jump to conclusions and fear the worst, here’s what you need to know about thyroid imbalances and hair loss.  

Thyroid Conditions Often Go Undetected

Consider this. Most hair loss is caused by male or female pattern hair loss, which is genetic. It doesn’t affect your health, just your hair. Thyroid conditions, however, can also cause hair loss, especially if untreated. According to the American Thyroid Association, more than twelve percent of the U.S. population will experience a thyroid disorder at some point in their lives. Up to sixty percent of those people are unaware of their condition. (01) That’s why dermatologists routinely run thyroid panels on their patients experiencing hair loss. 

Your Thyroid Affects Your Hormones

Let’s talk a little bit about what the thyroid is and its purpose. There’s a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in front of your neck. That’s your thyroid. Its main job is to produce hormones that control your metabolism and how your body uses energy. When your thyroid is out of whack, your hormones go haywire too. That’s where the problems begin.  

Different Types of Thyroid Conditions

A few different conditions can cause thyroid dysfunction.  Iodine deficiency is one. If you don’t get enough iodine in your diet, your thyroid may grow larger into a goiter. This is because your thyroid wants to hold onto enough iodine to produce enough thyroid hormone.

Autoimmune diseases can also cause your thyroid to go haywire. When this happens, the immune system attacks the thyroid. Hyperthyroidism, also called Graves Disease, can occur when the thyroid overproduces hormones. Underproduction can lead to hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s disease.  Other causes of thyroid dysfunction include a virus or bacteria, nodules, medications, medical treatments, and some genetic disorders. In some cases, pregnancy can trigger or exacerbate thyroid issues.  

Having one autoimmune disease also puts you at risk of having another. For example, it’s not unusual for someone with Graves disease to experience alopecia areata or lichen planopilaris.     

Weight Gain or Loss is Just One Symptom of Thyroid Imbalance

Symptoms of thyroid imbalance will vary based on the cause. Hypothyroidism may make you feel sensitive to the cold or gain weight. Hyperthyroidism causes the opposite — weight loss and often feeling warm. Other symptoms may include:

  • Exhaustion
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Brain fog
  • Hair loss

Thyroid Imbalances Disrupt the Hair Growth Cycle

Now that we’ve reviewed some basics about thyroid disorders let’s circle back to where we started and discuss how your thyroid affects your hair. When your hormone production is disrupted, other processes in your body are affected too. That includes your hair. If your hair’s growth cycle is interrupted, your hair could fall out, and new growth could be halted. Thinning of your hair and eyebrows could result. Some patterns to look for include:

  • Changes in your hair’s texture — Hair may become coarse and dry with hypothyroidism. It can become very soft and fine with hyperthyroidism
  • Loss of facial hair — Hypothyroidism could cause hair loss on the outer edges of your eyebrows
  • Smooth, circular bald patches in discrete parts of your scalp
  • Diffuse hair loss or thinning across your entire scalp

There are Ways to Regrow Your Hair When You Have a Thyroid Condition

If your lab work comes back and indicates that you have a thyroid condition, your dermatologist will likely refer you to an endocrinologist.  Endocrinologists specialize in treating glands and the hormones they produce. Often, once your thyroid is back in balance, your hair will grow back. While you’re in the wait-and-see mode, thickening shampoo and conditioner, and hair growth supplements may make your hair healthier, stronger, and shinier. They may also help reduce shedding.  

If your thyroid is balanced, it’s been six months or longer, and your hair doesn’t seem to grow, it’s time to check in with your dermatologist. Depending on your diagnosis and gender, your dermatologist may recommend prescription vasodilators or DHT blockers. Hair loss medications enlarge your hair follicles and block DHT to support your hair’s growth. If you’re on thyroid medication and are concerned about taking multiple pills, easy-to-apply topical Minoxidil, Finasteride, or Spironolactone are available. Topicals are often more appealing because they are not systemic, don’t interact with other medications you are taking, and don’t cause sexual or other bothersome side effects.  

It’s time to recap. Dermatologists routinely check their patients experiencing hair loss to rule out thyroid imbalances. Since so many people go undiagnosed, it’s not a stretch. If your thyroid is an issue, your hair will often grow back once your thyroid is back in balance. The right shampoo, conditioner, and supplements may help in the meanwhile. If your hair doesn’t grow back within a few months, it’s time to touch base with your dermatologist to determine if you have another conditions besides thyroid disease.  

Dermatologists who are also hair loss specialists are not always easy to find.  f you need a consultation, Happy Head is here. All of our doctors are board-certified dermatologists who specialize in hair growth. They are qualified to perform telemedicine and are here to help.  Simply fill out a short questionnaire to get started.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/

The Impact of Hair Loss on Mental Health

Man concerned about his hair loss and how it has effected his mental health. At Happy Head, we understand that experiencing hair loss can be a struggle but our board-certified dermatologists are here to help you find a solution.

“My hair is my everything. When I started seeing it get thinner, it destroyed me. I was really nervous about taking Finasteride orally. Happy Head’s topical solution gave me my confidence back!” – Jordan

Why is losing your hair so tough psychologically? Guys aren’t supposed to care about their looks. But, the truth is that we care about our appearances just as much as women do. Not that we would ever admit it. Here’s proof, though. A survey conducted by Men’s Health magazine found that 70 percent of men believe that their physical appearance affects their overall happiness and well-being. When we look good, we feel good. When our hairline starts to look like Grandad’s, well, we stress. 

If you’ve spent more than 30 minutes trying to distinguish a cowlick from a bald patch or parted your hair three different ways before meeting your friends for a drink, this one’s for you. It’s time to get real about the impact of hair loss on your mental health and what you can do to regain your confidence. 

Hair Loss Is More Common Than You Think, Especially Among Men

Odds are that most of us will have to deal with hair loss at some point after puberty. Here are the stats according to the American Hair Loss Association. (01) 25 percent of men start losing some hair before their 21st birthday. By the age of 35, two-thirds will see some thinning or balding. By age 50, that number jumps to 85 percent. That’s just for male pattern baldness. Those numbers jump even higher once you add alopecia areata, cicatricial alopecia, and other hair loss conditions.  

Why is Hair Loss Feel Like Such a Big Deal?

Given that hair loss is almost a rite of passage for us, why does it feel like something we should hide? Why the shame? Because in our society, we view aging as a stigma. Looking, feeling, or being perceived as old is negative. I’m 53, but when I look in the mirror, I still expect to see a 25-year-old me staring back. When I see my hair thinning and shiny spots glaring at me where my thick dark curls used to be, I think “huh, who the heck is that guy?” Let’s just say that it’s not exactly an ego boost. 

Male Pattern Baldness Can Mess With Your Head

Hair loss takes us out of our comfort zone. It can trigger insecurities about our looks. It makes us think that people will judge us based on our lack of hair. We feel like we’re losing our youth and that others won’t find us attractive. Worst of all, there’s not much we can do to control our fate. As much as we want the shedding to stop, it takes time. It’s not a quick, snap-of-the-fingers proposition. It’s no wonder that men with hair loss have a higher risk of anxiety and depression compared to those without any type of alopecia. (02)

How Can You Feel In Control When You’re Not?

I have some friends who proudly shave their heads and end up strutting around with the looks and bravado of Vin Diesel at the first sign of recession. The rest of us, well, we don’t fare quite as well. With my luck, shaving my head would leave me looking more like an eraser cap than the Rock. Not to mention that I might pass out the minute I hear the buzzer near my head. So what else can we do to feel like we’re in control of our thinning hair when in reality we aren’t? 

First, Stop Stressing

Sure, staying calm is easier said than done, especially when you’re staring down at a shower floor covered in your precious strands. Fretting won’t help, though. Stress can actually contribute to hair loss by producing adrenaline and cortisol that can push your hair follicles into a resting phase and halt your hair’s growth. Over time, your hair can fall out more easily. Instead, try these activities to help you calm down:

Go Outside

If you’re bummed about your hair loss, grabbing your sneakers and getting outside can help you keep your wits about you. According to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, participants in a study who went on a 90-minute walk reported lower levels of repetitive negative thoughts than people who walked in a city. (03) 

Hit the Gym

When you’re feeling insecure about your appearance, the last thing you may feel like doing is going to the gym. Here’s a good reason to grab your bag and go anyways. A study conducted by the University of Maryland School of Public Health found that exercise helps you better manage stressful situations immediately after and for an extended time after your workout. (04) Exercise can actually buffer the negative effects of emotional events. 

Write it Down

Many of us go through a grieving process when we lose our hair. After all, we’re losing a part of our image and identity. It makes sense. So how can we get out of our heads and into a better emotional space? Make a list to help you keep perspective. Make one column to write down the negative stuff you tell yourself. Write down alternative things you could say in a column next to it. When you see how you’re beating yourself up, you’ll realize it’s time to think differently. 

Get Your Zzzzs

When you’re tired, the parts of your brain that contribute to excessive worrying and anxiety go into overdrive. A good night’s sleep helps you stay calmer so you can put your hair loss into perspective. 

Take a Deep Breath

You may not be able to control your genetic predisposition to hair loss, but you can control your breathing. And, when you feel in control of even one thing, it can help you feel better overall. Try deep, controlled, slow breathing to relax the physiological symptoms of stress.  

Play With Your Pet

Did you know that petting a dog can lower your cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase oxytocin, the feel-good hormone? It’s true. When 84 percent of patients experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder were paired with service dogs, not only did they report a significant reduction in symptoms. Forty percent were able to decrease their medications. (05)

Have a Jam Session

Ever hear of the Mozart effect? It’s real. Although scientists don’t understand why, music has been proven to help reduce anxiety and depression. (06) So, the next time you feel down about your changing hairline, pump up the jam to help you feel calmer and more centered. 

Research Hair Loss Treatments

If you aren’t aware of the hair loss treatments that are available, getting up to speed might help you feel more in control. If your hair follicles are still viable, prescription medications have been proven to help reduce hair loss and promote growth within six months to a year. Top treatments include:

  • Minoxidil – Increases blood flow to the hair follicles to help stop shedding and stimulate hair growth.
  • Finasteride – First-line DHT blocker. DHT blockers prevent testosterone from converting to Dihydrotestosterone which is to blame for hair loss. Oral Finasteride is FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss. In one study, Finasteride stopped hair loss in 83 percent of men who took the medication. Over two years, 66 percent of men experienced growth. (07)
  • Dutasteride – A stronger DHT blocker used off-label for male pattern hair loss. Because Dutasteride blocks two enzymes, whereas Finasteride blocks one, Dutasteride is more effective for many men. (08) Dutasteride may cause more side effects, so many men opt to try Finasteride first.  

Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Dutasteride all come in both oral and topical formulas and are commonly prescribed by dermatologists. Topical Finasteride and Dutasteride have been proven to work as effectively as pills, so you can use either. (09)

Hair supplements containing biotin, keratin, saw palmetto, and vitamins like A & D3 can also help curb shedding while giving your hair a healthier appearance. The right hair loss shampoo and conditioner can help as well. 

If your dermatologist has determined that you’re not a candidate for hair loss medications, hair pieces or a permanent hair transplant may be an option. Thanks to advances in the field, both solutions can give you a natural look to help you feel ready to face the world.

Find What Works Best for You… Mentally and Aesthetically

Remember that grieving process we mentioned earlier? It really does happen when you lose your hair. It’s normal to be anxious or depressed, and it will take a minute to accept your evolving look. Taking care of yourself and exploring different treatment options are good ways to help you cope. Over time, you’ll find what works for you.

Meanwhile, Happy Head is here to help with hair loss solutions. Simply fill out a brief questionnaire and one of our board-certified dermatologists will make recommendations based on your hair loss history and goals. The process is easy, and best of all, completely private. Give Happy Head a try and get 50% off your first order with code GOHAIR at checkout. 

 

Resources:

(01) www.americanhairloss.org

(02) www.sciencedirect.com

(03) www.pnas.org

(04) sph.umd.edu

(05) www.hopkinsmedicine.org

(06) journals.plos.org

(07) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(08) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(09) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

 

7 Modern Hairstyles for Men With Thinning Hair

Happy Head Inc customer getting his hair cut in a more flattering way to help hide his hair thinning while he continues his hair loss treatments.

When hair starts to thin, finding the right hairstyle becomes challenging. Your old tried and true hairstyle becomes more and more difficult to achieve with thinning hair. To add to the problem, your go-to haircut doesn’t do your bald spots and thinning areas any favors. Sound familiar? Don’t worry. You can achieve a stylish, modern haircut and mask your thinning hair at the same time. We’ve found 7 modern hairstyles for men with thinning hair to help you find a solution before your next event.

Fashion Forward Hairstyles for Your Thinning Hair

If you are experiencing thinning hair, it’s important to choose a haircut that flatters your face shape and helps to make your hair appear fuller and thicker. Here are some haircut tips for men with thinning hair.

1. The Crew Cut

The crew cut is both modern and classic, worn by the likes of Channing Tatum to Elvis Pressley. This cut is a shorter hairstyle that’s perfect for men who have thinning hair. Depending on the specific crew cut you’re looking for, this style involves cutting the hair short on the sides and the back. The top, however, remains slightly longer. 

What makes the crew cut work is that it gives the hair some movement but hides any thinning areas – especially at the temples. This creates a clean, polished look that’s easy to maintain and style. For a versatile option, try the crew cut if you have thinning hair. 

2. The Combover

The comb-over gets a bad rap, but it’s an extremely effective way to mask thinning hair or bald spots. A short comb-over, in particular, is the quintessential business look that also helps to disguise any thin patches. This style involves combing the hair over to one side to hide bald spots.

A comb-over requires hair products to keep hair in place. Typically, a comb and hairspray (or other hair product) are all that’s necessary to make a comb-over look flawless. A larger area to comb over may call for longer hair, therefore, a comb-over needs some time for hair to grow long enough to cover over the necessary areas. 

3. The Slicked-Back Look

Slicking back your hair can create the look of full locks. The slicked-back hairstyle involves combing the hair straight back, away from the face. This helps to create the appearance of fuller hair on top while also giving the hair a polished, sophisticated look. 

The slicked-back style can also be easily styled with a little bit of hair product, making it a great option for men who want a low-maintenance style. This look works well with a streamlined, modern wardrobe. So, if you already have an affinity for fashion, a slicked-back hairstyle might be right up your alley. 

4. The French Crop

The French crop is called the “white T-shirt of haircuts” because it looks great on most face shapes. This style also seems ready-made for men with receding hairlines or thinning hair. The hairstyle calls for a crew cut-like cut, but the hair is combed forward at the top. Because the hair is styled slightly forward, the strands can shield a receding hairline from view. 

When wearing a French crop, it helps to use a bit of pomade or gel to keep the hair combed forward and flattened. Also, a shorter cut at the front means frequent trims. Allowing the hair to grow long at the forehead can make the cut look like bangs, so be sure to keep the look on the shorter side!

5. The Messy Textured Crop

The messy textured crop is a modern hairstyle that is perfect for men with thinning hair. This style involves cutting the hair short on the sides and back while leaving the hair slightly longer on top. The hair on top is then styled with a bit of texture and volume, creating a messy, tousled look, perfect for men who want a more relaxed, casual look.

The hair flows forward in this hairstyle, so it helps to cover up any patches of receding hairline or bald areas. This haircut is also low-maintenance, as it doesn’t require precision or accuracy when styling. Just dab some hair product onto your hands, tousle your hair, and you’re good to go. 

6. The Short Quiff

The short quiff is a more modern hairstyle that’s convenient and very doable for men with thinning hair. This style involves cutting the hair short on the sides and back while leaving the hair slightly longer on top. Though it may be mistaken for a pompadour, a short quiff, and a pompadour are two very different hairstyles. 

While both the short quiff and the pompadour involve styling the front of the hair to add volume, a short quiff is much shorter and brushed forwards. So, while a pompadour calls for longer, thicker hair, a short quiff works well with thinner hair. This style also offers the illusion of movement and density, making it an excellent hairstyle for someone with thinning hair. 

7. The Faux Hawk Mohawk

There’s no need to let thinning hair keep you from being edgy and modern! If you’re feeling adventurous, then a faux hawk or mohawk is for you. The faux hawk is a variation of the classic Mohawk, but it’s less extreme and much easier to wear. To create a faux hawk, ask your barber to cut your hair shorter on the sides (but not shaved all the way) and longer on top. Style your hair by using a styling product, such as pomade or wax, to create height and texture.

A Mohawk, on the other hand, calls for a complete shave on the sides of your head and leaves a strip of hair on top. Style your hair by using a styling product, such as pomade or wax, to create height and texture. If you’re feeling rebellious, style the hair into spikes or ask your barber to dye your hair a vibrant color. This should create a definite distraction from your thinning hair! 

Customer looking in the mirror at their thinning hair.

What Causes Hair Thinning? 

Before you change your hairstyle, you may want to confirm that you’re actually experiencing hair loss. According to the American Hair Loss Association, a person typically loses 50 to 100 hairs a day. When a person loses more hair than that for a prolonged period of time, however, it can result in excessive hair loss which causes thinning or balding. (01)

Here are some of the most common causes of hair loss in men:

  1. Male pattern baldness: Male androgenetic alopecia, also called male pattern baldness, affects up to 30 to 50% of men by the age of 50. The condition is the most common cause of hair loss in men. (02) This type of hair loss is typically caused by genetics and hormonal changes and typically results in a receding hairline and thinning hair on the crown of the head.
  2. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can also cause hair loss. For example, scalp infections, autoimmune disorders, and skin conditions like psoriasis can all lead to hair loss. (03)
  3. Medications: Many medications can cause hair loss in men as a side effect. Some of the most common medications that have hair loss as side effects include chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants. (03)
  4. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc, and biotin, can contribute to hair loss or thinning. (04)
  5. Stress: Stress can also contribute to hair loss in both men and women. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies that can result in hair loss.
  6. Hairstyles and hair treatments: Some hairstyles and hair treatments can also contribute to hair loss in men. For example, tight braids, weaves, and ponytails can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss caused by pulling on the hair follicles. Chemical treatments like perms and relaxers can also damage the hair and cause hair loss over time. (05)

As you can see, hair loss in men can be caused by a variety of factors. So, if you suspect that your hair is thinning, you may want to speak with a dermatologist to confirm your suspicions. You can also take our quick questionnaire here to tell us about your hair loss, share some photos, and a Happy Head dermatologist can create a custom hair loss treatment just for you. All online. No office visits needed. 

You can also try our Happy Head Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner. Developed specifically with hair loss in mind, our hair care products contain high-quality ingredients like Saw Palmetto and Biotin. Our special hair thickeners add volume and length to your strands and keep your scalp healthy. Subscribe and save on your purchase! 

Resources: 

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

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278957/

(03) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/18-causes

(04) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/18-causes

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/

(06) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470434/

Debunking the Myths About Hair Loss

Happy Head board-certified dermatologists are debunking the myths about hair loss. It's never too late to treat it.

Legend has it that Samson, the biblical hero, needed his hair to give him his strength. After his hair loss, Samson was said to have lost his superhuman power. Although this tale has no basis in reality (no, your hair does not give you power), the Samson story may have added to the myth that long, thick hair was proof of virility and fertility. While most people know that the hair on your head is not directly related to your strength and power, there are other hair myths that remain. In this article, we’ll focus on debunking the myths of hair loss and affirm some facts along the way. 

What Are the Facts & the Myths About Hair Loss? 

Losing your hair can be caused by a myriad of factors, so preventing hair loss takes a multi-pronged approach. One example is a person’s diet. While specific vitamins and minerals are necessary for healthy hair, a poor diet won’t make you bald. It can, however, cause your hair to start thinning. Using the right hair products, consuming hair-friendly nutrients, and taking a proactive approach to hair growth, to prevent hair loss, can even help regrow your hair. Let’s explore seven common myths about hair loss. 

1. Your mother is the reason for your hair loss. 

The myth that you inherit baldness from your mother is false, at least half the time. While it’s true that genetics play a major role in male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness, you can inherit the condition from either of your parents. Androgenic alopecia, for example, is a hair loss condition with strong genetic links. But where that genetic link comes from is not that easy to explain. 

For example, men get their X chromosome from their mother and the Y chromosome from their father. And although the gene most associated with baldness – the AR gene – is found on the X chromosome, there are 63 other genes responsible for hair loss. You may be surprised that only six of those genes are on the X chromosome. So, you might blame your mother for a lot of things during therapy, but hair loss shouldn’t be one of them! (01)

2. Baldness only happens with age. 

Middle-aged adults do not have a monopoly on hair loss. Studies show that about 16% of young adult males ages 18 to 29 have moderate to severe hair loss, so losing hair can happen at any age. Some men can start losing hair in adolescence. 

People who have a genetic predisposition to hair loss start losing hair as early as their teens or twenties, decades before most people expect the loss to occur. The signs are there decades before they may notice. So, if you suspect you might be losing your hair, it’s always advisable to consult a professional as soon as possible. 

3. Hair suffocates under a hat. 

Some people will tell you that wearing a hat leads to hair loss because headwear can “suffocate” your hair. First of all, your follicles and hair strands do not breathe. Therefore, you can’t suffocate the hair off your head. 

You can, however, experience traction alopecia if your hat or hairstyle constantly pulls at your hair. Over time, repeated pressure or friction may lead to hair follicle damage or hair loss. In addition, a tight fit can restrict blood flow if worn daily, which may prevent vital nutrients from getting into hair follicles. While wearing a hat is fine, make sure to wear one that’s not constricting or abrasive to your scalp. 

4. Only men experience severe hair loss. 

Hair loss, even balding, is not a condition isolated to men. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, women also struggle with hair loss. Because, for all genders, the cause is typically genetic. Also, both men and women see thinning hair with age. The difference is how the person loses their hair. (02)

Men tend to lose hair in a very specific area, like at the hairline or the top of the head. On the other hand, women lose hair evenly and diffusely throughout the scalp. And, unlike men, women have historically had more options to disguise their hair loss in the form of wigs, weaves, and other cosmetic measures to cover baldness. In short, women also experience severe hair loss — albeit with significant differences. 

4. Stress causes baldness.

Does stress cause baldness? This myth is a little tricky. While stress by itself doesn’t cause baldness, it does cause hair loss. Telogen effluvium, a common hair loss condition, occurs due to severe and persistent stress. Anything from job loss to illness can trigger a stress response, which may result in hair loss. 

Telogen effluvium is also known as “club hair” due to the shape of hairs at the root. Hair loss happens throughout the head and does not typically cause complete baldness. The condition can impact any person at any age as long as they’ve experienced significant stress or sickness. Fortunately, in most cases, hair loss during telogen effluvium grows back after the stress has resolved. (03)

5. Men who go bald have too much testosterone. 

Although it may provide some comfort to think you’re losing your hair because you’re too manly, the truth is not that simple. Elevated levels of testosterone do not lead to baldness. However, testosterone does play an indirect role when it comes to hereditary hair loss. 

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a sex hormone that’s converted from testosterone. Hair follicles are affected by DHT. And some people are genetically inclined to have follicles that are exceptionally sensitive to the hormone, causing hair follicles to shrink in size and unable to grow healthy hair. (04) To combat the conversion of Testosterone into DHT, you need a custom hair treatment that targets the hormone. 

6. Certain hairstyles will cause you to go bald.

Your mousse and gel routine will not cause baldness, no matter how many bottles of product you go through. That said, some hairstyles may cause your hair too thin. For example, heated hair tools and tight braids can cause breakage, causing thinner hair. Once stopped, however, hair typically grows back normally. 

Coloring, bleaching,  or perming your hair also does not cause you to go bald, though it may damage the hair and lead to thinning. In most cases, the hair grows back once the coloring or perming ends.  Remember, any hair products that cause severe scalp injuries can result in permanent bald patches. 

7. Brushing your hair will encourage hair growth.

The myth about brushing your hair 100 times before bed stems from a time when hair conditioner wasn’t available to the masses. In the past, women (and some men) spread hair oils throughout the scalp by brushing repeatedly. This activity kept hair from becoming dry and brittle. 

Happy Head products help promote hair growth and combat hair loss at the root. Choose from custom-made topical treatments to super strength orals and more at HappyHead.com.

These days, the right shampoo and conditioner do the job that brushing used to do. Maintaining clean hair and a healthy scalp prevents hair loss. Brushing your hair too much, on the other hand, causes breakage and hair loss. While it won’t make you go bald, it may thin out your hair. (05)

The Truth About Hair Loss

Throughout history, hair has always had a mystical quality. Whether it’s the lock of hair placed into a boiling cauldron or Samson’s powerful mane, humans have always assigned myths to hair. Now that we’re done debunking the myths of hair loss, you know your hair isn’t magical — hair growth comes down to science. 

Happy Head takes the mystery out of hair loss. All of our doctors are board-certified dermatologists specializing in hair growth. Our proprietary hair growth formula and hair care products were developed by world-renowned hair loss pioneers: Dr. Ben Behnam and Dr. Sean Behnam. Looking to prevent hair loss or regrow your hair? Take the questionnaire and get started your customized hair loss program today. 

Resources: 

(01) https://www.healthline.com/health/baldness-gene
(02) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/18-causes
(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430848/
(04) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/68082#Hair-growth-and-hair-loss
(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5419032/

 

Is Propecia (aka Finasteride) the Right Medication for You?

After months of stressing out about how much hair you’ve lost, you finally pay a visit to your dermatologist.  You talk to your doctor, have an examination, and finally get the news you’ve been dreading.  You have androgenetic alopecia, another name for male or female pattern baldness.  You were trying to process the diagnosis and heard the dermatologist mention the medication Propecia, but couldn’t fully concentrate on what he or she was saying.  You were too focused on the fact that you are losing your hair.  Now that you’ve calmed down, you have decisions to make. Should you try taking Propecia or not?  Will it work?  Is there a less expensive generic version?  Does it have any side effects?  If these or other questions are swirling around in your head, you’re in the right place.  We’re here to give you all of the information you need to help you decide whether Propecia is right for you. 

Why is Propecia Prescribed?

Propecia, the brand name for the generic medication Finasteride, is FDA-approved to treat male pattern baldness. Although the medication is not FDA-approved to treat women, it is often prescribed off-label for female pattern baldness.  Both Propecia and Finasteride work the same.  The difference between the two medications is the price.  Since Propecia is a brand name, it is more expensive due to associated marketing costs.

Is Propecia a New Hair Loss Medication?

Propecia has been available to treat hair loss for over 25 years.  The medication was first used in 5-milligram doses in 1992 by urologists to treat enlarged prostates among men aged 50 and older.  During trials, it was discovered that a side effect was hair growth.  In 1997, one milligram of Propecia was formally approved for hair loss in men who are 18 and up.

How Does Propecia Treat Androgenetic Alopecia?

Propecia inhibits type II and type III 5-alpha-reductase isoenzymes.  In simple terms, that means it prevents testosterone from converting into an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  Blocking DHT is important because excess DHT shrinks your hair follicles and interrupts your hair’s growth cycle.  When your hair follicles shrink, hair becomes thinner and weaker.  Hair falls out easily and doesn’t grow back.  

How is Propecia Dosed to Treat Male or Female Pattern Hair Loss?

As mentioned previously, Propecia was originally marketed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia at 5 milligrams.  The dosage typically prescribed to treat male pattern hair loss is significantly less.  Your doctor will determine the right dose for you; however, one milligram is the most common prescription for men.  Women usually need a higher dosage than men.  Doses prescribed for women can range anywhere from 1.25 to five milligrams.  

Does Propecia Effectively Treat Hair Loss?

If you’re wondering whether or not you should give Propecia a try, the data is favorable.  Propecia is effective in preventing further hair loss and growing new hair.  Research has demonstrated that Propecia reduces serum DHT by 70 percent. (01)  With the medication, testosterone cannot convert to DHT, which can damage the hair follicles. Furthermore, one study indicates that 48 percent of users achieved growth after one year.  After two years, that number increased to 66 percent.  The study also shows that Propecia halts hair loss.  After two years, 83 percent of users in the study had no further hair loss. (02)  It’s important to know that results are only seen while using Propecia.  If you stop using the medication, new growth will likely fall out and your hair will look like it did before taking it.  Further hair loss can also occur.

Can You Combine Propecia With Other Hair Loss Medications?

Dermatologists often find that combining Propecia with Minoxidil gives better results than using Propecia alone.  The two medications serve different purposes.  Propecia blocks the DHT from converting, while Minoxidil sends oxygen to the hair follicles, helping them open so healthy new hair can break through.  You may also hear about retinol.  When using topical Propecia, retinol has been proven to improve absorption of the medication, giving better results.  

How Long Does it Take Propecia to Work?

It’s normal to be anxious to see results after starting a hair loss medication.  When you take Propecia, you may see hints of new growth around the three or four-month mark.  However, it typically takes six months to notice significant improvement.  It generally takes a year to see full results.  

Does Propecia Have Any Side Effects?

Many men are apprehensive about taking Propecia because they have heard it can cause undesirable sexual side effects.  Some report erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and ejaculation disorders.  The side effects are rare, only affecting approximately one percent of men who take oral Propecia. If side effects are a concern, topical Propecia is an alternative that has been proven equally as effective without the same risk of side effects.  Topical solutions work specifically at the site of the hair follicles without risking systemic exposure. (03)

Can Women Take Propecia?

Although Propecia is not FDA approved for women, many dermatologists prescribe the medication off-label for their patients with female pattern baldness.  Both oral and topical Propecia has been proven effective for treating women. (04)  Topical Propecia is absorbed into the skin of the scalp without systemic effects.  Oral Propecia can be prescribed for women who are post menapausal, but isn’t recommended for women of childbearing age unless oral contraceptives are also being taken.  

Are There Alternatives to Propecia to Treat Androgenetic Alopecia?

Other hair loss treatments exist, but keep in mind that prescription medications are most effective.  Minoxidil is often used in conjunction with Propecia for both men and women.  Propecia is effective for most, but in cases where stronger medications are needed, Dutasteride can be prescribed to men or women.  Dutasteride works similarly to Propecia; however, it blocks an additional enzyme.  Spironolactone can be prescribed to women but isn’t recommended for men because it can cause breast enlargement.  Combination topical treatments are often a good choice because they conveniently combine multiple medications into one formula.  

Propecia is a well-tested medication proven to help people with androgenetic alopecia.  The medicine helps stop further hair loss and stimulates new growth in many patients with male and female pattern baldness.  If you have additional questions about Propecia, let us know.  Our board-certified dermatologists are available to review your case and recommend dosages, formulas, and other medications that work well with Propecia.

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513329/#:~:text=2%5D%5B3%5D-,Finasteride%20is%20an%20FDA%2Dapproved%20pharmacologic%20agent%20for%20treating%20benign,a%20dose%20of%205%20mg.

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

(03) https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jdv.17738

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29464847/

 

REJUVENAGING® with Dr. Ron Kaiser Podcast Featuring Dr. Ben Behnam

 

Dr. Ben Behnam was recently invited to participate in the inspirational podcast Rejuvenaging, hosted by Dr. Ron Kaiser.  Dr. Kaiser is a psychologist, keynote and TEDx speaker, and author of the triple award-winning book Rejuvenating the Art and Science of Getting Older with Enthusiasm.  He likes to think of his podcast as a mental gym, a place for information about wellness, positive psychology, and, what he likes to call, goal-achieving psychology.  During the podcast, Dr. Ben and Dr. Kaiser discussed healthy ways to cope with hair loss, from both a physical and psychological perspective.  If you didn’t get a chance to tune in, here are some highlights that you won’t want to miss.  

The First Step in Coping with Hair Loss is Realizing that You’re Not Alone

Whether you’re male or female, if you’re in life’s second half-century, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re experiencing some type of hair loss.  According to American Hair Loss Association, 85 percent of men and 50 percent of women lose a significant amount of hair by the age of 50.  So when you look at the numbers, you’ll find that most people are experiencing some sort of hair loss by age 50. 

Dr. Ben defines hair loss in two ways:  thinning and balding.  When someone’s hair is thinning, you can see their scalp through the remaining hair.  When people are balding, hair is completely missing, and you can see their heads.  

Female Hair Loss No Longer Carries a Stigma

A couple of years ago, no one talked much about female hair loss. It was taboo. But now, over 50 percent of Dr. Ben’s patients are women with hair loss issues. Hair loss is becoming much more accepted in society.  When women talk about their hair loss, it’s good because putting the conversation out there benefits both men and women.  

It’s Important to Identify the Underlying Reason for Your Hair Loss

There are different reasons why people lose their hair.  Three common reasons include nutritional deficiencies, anxiety, and genetics.  Treating hair loss means understanding the cause.  

Common nutritional deficiencies Dr. Ben often finds in his patients are low Vitamin D, iron, and biotin.  Those vitamins are necessary for hair growth.  Vegetarians who don’t get enough protein in their diets also tend to experience issues with hair loss.  When Dr. Ben finds that patients are lacking vitamins or protein, he supplements their diets with additional proteins and collagen. He also adds Vitamin D and iron.  

Many times, Dr. Ben’s patients have already seen another doctor and are on medication for hair loss, but their hair still isn’t growing.  By the time they go to him, he doesn’t need to add another medication.  He’s just helping with lifestyle changes, so the medication works better.  Without the proper foundation, hair loss medication can’t work.  What you eat affects how you look.    

Hair Loss and Mental Health are Closely Intertwined

Anxiety can lead to hair loss in a few different ways.   One, when people are anxious, they are more likely to pull on their hair.  Physical manipulation will lead to more hair loss. Unfortunately, patients can also experience a lot of different stressful situations that can lead to hair loss.   One example is an 18-year-old patient with alopecia who did not go on birth control and could not use condoms for religious reasons.  She got pregnant and had to make difficult choices.  She hid her pregnancy from her parents and experienced great stress from the ordeal.  In situations like this, where stress is a hair loss trigger, Dr. Ben offers support by giving referrals to a therapist.  

Diagnosing Hair Loss Requires a Specialist

When someone experiences alopecia, Dr. Ben uses a holistic approach to treatment.  He looks at mental status, home life, stress levels, metabolic, and other health issues.  He believes that he should look at everything when he’s making a diagnosis and developing a treatment plan.  

Seventy to 80 percent of men are relatively easy to diagnose.  They don’t have nutritional deficiencies, mental issues, or any factors that would cause alopecia. They have clear-cut cases of male pattern hair loss.  But then there’s that 20 percent that doesn’t fall into that category.  Women are also a bit more challenging to diagnose.  Every case is different, and he believes that you have to evaluate each case individually.

People with Androgenetic Alopecia Can Regrow Their Hair

Depending upon the cause of your hair loss, treatment is available to help regrow your hair. People who experience male and female pattern hair loss tend to get good results with available medications.  Medications used include Finasteride, which is Propecia, a prostate medication that’s used to block testosterone.  Dr. Ben has seen excellent results with patients who use Finasteride.  Rogaine, which is a topical product sold over the counter, is also called Minoxidil.  Minoxidil is an oral medication used to control high blood pressure.  Since Minoxidil dilates the blood vessels, more oxygen reaches the scalp and causes hair growth.  

Finasteride, Minoxidil, and other hair loss treatments take about 6 months to start seeing results.

You Don’t Have to Experience Side Effects Associated with Oral Hair Loss Medications

One of the side effects of Propecia is erectile dysfunction.  So, a couple of years ago, Dr. Ben and Dr. Sean developed a Finasteride alternative.  It’s a topical Finasteride, meaning that you’re not ingesting it.  Clinical studies have proven that topical Finasteride has a lower risk of sexual side effects, yet it is still effective.  The dermatologists were quite excited about the discovery, so they developed Happy Head, their own formula of topical Finasteride combined with prescription-grade Minoxidil.  They tested Happy Head with patients and found that patients who experienced sexual side effects with oral Finasteride did not have the same side effects with the topical.  The product was researched for two years before being launched nationwide.  

It’s Time to Get Rid of the One Size Fits All Mentality When it Comes to Hair Loss

Dr. Ben and Dr. Sean set out to change the hair loss field.  After two years of launching Happy Head, it’s still the only company in the U.S. with a customizable prescription hair loss solution that’s available nationwide.  Most products on the market are mass-produced.  With Happy Head, however, patients can change the concentrations of ingredients, remove ingredients, and replace ingredients.  For example, the change can easily be made if you need .25 percent Finasteride rather than one percent.  A month later, if the .25 percent isn’t strong enough, the dose can be increased.  Traditional corporate thinking is to produce in large volumes to reduce cost.  With Happy Head, the needs of individuals are unique, so the product is customized to meet those individual needs. 

Fast, Easy Access to Prescription Hair Loss Treatments is Available

Happy Head is a telemedicine website with licensed doctors and pharmacies in every state.  It works by going on the Happy Head website to submit photos and complete a medical questionnaire.  The process takes about five minutes.  Within 24 hours, a doctor reviews the information you provided and writes a prescription.  You receive a bottle in three days.  There isn’t a charge for the consultation.  If the doctor who reviews your case determines that you’re not a candidate, your money is refunded.  

If you’re over 50 and experiencing hair loss, you’re not alone.  Eating well, managing stress, and living as healthy of a lifestyle as possible all contribute to the quality of your hair.  If you are experiencing male or female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), medications are available to help regrow your hair.  Simply visit happyhead.com and complete a brief survey.  A licensed dermatologist will review your case and determine whether you are a candidate for prescription hair loss medication.

5 Facts All Men Should Know About Hair Loss

Man looking at his hairline in the mirror, wondering what to do. Happy Head can help you stop hair thinning and loss in its tracks with custom topical solutions made with fda approved ingredients that are just for you.

A few weeks ago, my husband pointed out a Facebook meme that made us laugh. It showed two photos of hair and body care products. One photo included products that women use in the shower, and another photo showed the products that men use.  The women’s photo was loaded with products, including body wash, face wash, two different types of shampoos, and a couple of different types of conditioner. The men’s photo only had one product, a lone all-in-one bottle of body wash, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, and toothpaste. Not only was it funny, but it also depicted the scene in our shower pretty accurately. The truth is, though, although some men don’t give their hair a lot of thought, I don’t know of any who are thrilled about the idea of going bald. It’s a super sensitive topic. As nonchalant as my husband is about his hair, even a hint that his hairline is receding results in a very alarmed “What?” and a close scalp examination in the mirror that night.  Hair loss in men is common, but that doesn’t mean you’re okay with it. Nor does that mean that you have to accept your fate. So, if you’re a guy with some recession, thinning, or balding, this one’s for you. We’re here to fill you in on what you need to know about male pattern hair loss and what you can do about it.  

1. Hair Loss in Men is More Common Than You Realize

According to the American Hair Loss Association, by age 50, 85 percent of all men will have significantly thinning hair. (01)  Yes, you read that correctly. The majority of men will deal with some type of hair loss in their lifetime.  Men lose their hair for a lot of different reasons.  Balding or thinning hair can be due to autoimmune conditions, Covid, or even stress. The most common reason, though, is genetics. The vast majority of men with thinning or balding hair have androgenetic alopecia, male pattern baldness. Yup, that’s right. Your parents or grandparents may have passed along a baldness gene.  

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, occurs when your testosterone is converted to an androgen (a sex hormone) known as Dihydrotestoterone (DHT). The DHT attacks your hair follicles and causes a reaction called miniaturization which shrinks the follicles. When that happens, the hair that is already there falls out. New hair has trouble emerging through the shrunken follicles, and eventually, the hair stops growing.  

Although Male pattern baldness is the leading cause of hair loss among men; it’s not the only reason men lose their hair. Other forms of alopecia can cause hair loss among men as well. For example, Covid or other illnesses can cause a temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium. In this case, your hair will grow back within six to twelve months. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sporadic bald patches. Some men’s hair spontaneously regrows, but flares can occur at any time without notice.  Lichen planopilaris is another type of alopecia that causes inflammation, leading to scars over the hair follicles that prevent new hair growth.         

2. Timing is Everything When It Comes to Hair Loss Treatments

Many men avoid doctors like the plague. (02)  However taking a “let’s wait and see what happens” attitude isn’t recommended when it comes to hair loss. If you don’t get treatment when you first notice that your hair is thinning, then your hair loss will most likely progress, leaving you with a higher number on the Hamilton-Norwood Scale. In case you don’t know what that is, the Hamilton-Norwood Scale is a classification system developed to measure the extent of baldness. You don’t want to get high scores on that test.  

If you visit a board-certified dermatologist as soon as you see signs of thinning or balding, your doctor will identify the cause of your hair loss. Once you are diagnosed, your dermatologist can recommend treatments to stop your male pattern hair loss and to promote new growth.  

3. Hair Loss Consultations Are Not a Big Deal (Really!)

If the idea of any medical procedure secretly has you a bit nervous, don’t let that prevent you from seeing a dermatologist.  The exam is much easier than you would expect, and trust me, your dermatologist will not think you are vain for seeking treatment.  Dermatologists evaluate men for hair loss conditions all the time.  So, while you may be out of your comfort zone, your dermatologist certainly isn’t.   

Your dermatologist will ask questions about your health, medications, family history, and lifestyle during your exam. The more detailed information you provide, the better. Your dermatologist will examine your scalp to evaluate your hair loss pattern and possibly do a pull test. A pull test measures the severity of your hair loss. During the test, your dermatologist will gently tug on small sections of your hair to see if any strands fall out.  If six or more do, you have active hair loss. Dermatologists usually diagnose androgenetic alopecia based on visual exam. A blood test or a small biopsy may be ordered if he or she suspects another type of alopecia. Don’t stress if you need a biopsy. You’ll be numb, the biopsy area is small, and it heals within a week.

4. Today’s Hair Loss Treatments are Effective and Natural Looking 

After you get a diagnosis, you’ll have many treatment options. The good news is more data than ever is available on hair loss treatments. Research indicates that many are not only safe, they’re highly effective. Here are some examples of the most popular prescription hair loss treatments used:

Minoxidil 

  • FDA approved to treat hair loss
  • Available in oral or topical formulas
  • Brings oxygen to the hair follicles, enlarging them so existing hair does not fall out and new hair can emerge

Finasteride

  • FDA approved to treat hair loss
  • Available in oral and topical formulas
  • Prevents testosterone from converting to DHT and attacking your hair follicles
  • First-line treatment for androgenetic alopecia

Dutasteride

  • Used off label to treat hair loss
  • Only available as a pill like our SuperCapsule
  • Prevents testosterone from converting to DHT and attacking your hair follicles
  • Prescribed if patient does not respond to Finasteride
  • Lower dosage prescribed for Dutasteride than Finasteride

Cortisone

  • Available in pill and topical formulas
  • Reduces irritation and inflammation

Retinoic Acid

  • Available in topical formula
  • Proven to improve absorption of topical Minoxidil and Finasteride

Compounded Topical Formulas

Research has shown that combinations of topical formulas are more effective than monotherapy.  For example, topical Finasteride combined with topical Minoxidil works better than one of the medications alone. (03)  Finasteride and Minodixil combined with Retinoic Acid is more effective because the retinol helps the scalp better absorb the other two medications. (04)

Alternative Hair Loss Treatments for Men

You may also be a candidate for treatments such as Protein Rich Plasma (PRP), laser light treatments, and hair transplant surgery. Let’s talk about what these are and how they work.

Protein Rich Plasma

PRP acts similarly to Minoxidil by bringing oxygen to the hair follicles to enlarge them. During a PRP procedure, your dermatologist draws your blood. The blood is then separated. The plasma is then injected into sites where your hair is thinning or balding. 

Laser Light Treatment

You may have seen ads for laser light caps. Do they work? Well, the jury is out. The philosophy behind them is that the light increases blood flow to the areas on your scalp that are thinning. More oxygen and nutrients are able to reach the hair follicles, allowing the hair to grow thicker and longer. Although research indicates that laser lights show promise for treating hair loss, the most effective intensity and frequency is still to be determined. (05, 06)  

Hair Transplant Surgery

In the 70s and 80s, you could always tell when a man had hair restoration surgery. You could actually see little circular holes where the plugs were implanted. It looked like a doll’s head. Over time, dermatologists have been perfecting the surgery and today’s techniques give a natural appearance. Dermatologists now move individual hairs from a place where the hair is dense to an area where the hair is thinning. (07) You can’t even tell that the hair has been transplanted.  

5. Perceptions of Bald or Balding Men Have Changed for the Better

Men with thin or thinning hair tend to have lower self-esteem and lack confidence, which could explain negative perceptions of their appearance. (08)  The key is to work with what you do have so you feel as confident as possible.  

Yes, there was a time when bald or balding men were deemed less attractive. That’s no longer the case, though. Today, men who embrace their look are seen as intelligent, successful, and confident. (09) Jeff Bezos, Samuel L. Jackson, Ed Harris, and The Rock are prime examples. So if your hair is thinning or balding, work with your barber or hair stylist to find and own a fresh new look. That look can evolve as you undergo hair loss treatment.  

If you notice some recession, thinning, or balding, and are concerned, contact us for a discrete consultation from the comfort of your home, on your schedule. Our board-certified dermatologists and hair specialists are available to evaluate how much hair you’ve lost and your scalp’s condition. Most importantly, they can offer a customized prescription solution to give you the desired results.  

 

Resources:

(01) https://www.americanhairloss.org/men_hair_loss/introduction.html

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6560804/#:~:text=At%20the%20societal%20level%20masculine,not%20go%20see%20the%20doctor.

(03) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32166351/

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2693596/

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8906269/

(06) https://www.karger.com/article/fulltext/509001

(07) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/treatment/transplant

(08) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16307704/

(09) https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1948550612449490

 

The Real Story Behind Vitamins that Prevent Hair Loss

I hate to start with a spoiler, but I’m going to start with a spoiler.  Neither vitamins nor supplements are FDA-approved or regulated for any type of hair loss.  Or, for any other health condition for that matter.  This means that information required to establish safety and effectiveness has not been submitted to or approved by the FDA.  Yet, do an Amazon search using the terms “vitamins for hair loss,” and pages and pages of products appear with assurances that the vitamins will help you regrow your hair.  Biotin, keratin, saw palmetto, and proprietary collagen blends are just a few that pop up on the first page, with prices varying from $11 to over $176.  Trying to figure out which ones are effective and worth the investment can make your head spin.   

If your hair is thinning or balding, it’s smart to question whether vitamins will help or if manufacturer promises are too good to be true.  So which ones do dermatologists and hair specialists recommend?  We’re here to answer your questions and set the story straight.  

Get Diagnosed Before You Buy Vitamins to Treat Your Hair Loss

Before you even think about trying any vitamins, you need to start with a diagnosis.  After all, you need to know what condition you’re treating.  Here are the three most common types of alopecia that cause either temporary or permanent hair loss:

  • Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a type of temporary hair loss that can occur up to several months after a traumatic or stressful incident.  The condition can be triggered by various events, including high fevers, surgery, certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and autoimmune diseases.  When physiologic stress occurs, hairs that would normally be in a growing phase are abruptly pushed into a resting phase, resulting in shedding.  The shedding can occur in either small or large amounts.  While hair loss from telogen effluvium can be upsetting in the short term, the long-term prognosis for regrowth is good.  No medication is typically needed.  Hair usually grows back within six months to a year.  

  • Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is also known as male or female pattern baldness.  The hair loss condition occurs when too much testosterone converts to an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  The condition is genetic and can come from either the maternal or paternal sides of your family.  The hair loss pattern among men with androgenetic alopecia differs from that of women.  Men tend to lose their hair on the front and top of their heads.  Women usually notice their hair loss first along their widening center parts.  Oral and topical medications have been proven to help prevent further hair loss and facilitate growth.  

  • Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune hair loss condition that can affect women, men, and children.  Hair loss is usually noticed first in small round or oval patches.  In some cases, hair spontaneously regrows, and in others, the hair loss becomes permanent.  Treatment usually focuses on treating any underlying conditions and using topical and oral medications.

Determining whether you have one of these forms of alopecia is a multi-step process.  Your dermatologist will likely order blood work as part of the diagnostic process.  The lab results will indicate whether vitamin deficiencies could be contributing to your alopecia.  If so, you may benefit from supplementation.  

Vitamins are Helpful When People with Alopecia Have Deficiencies

Much conflicting information exists about the role that vitamins and supplements play when it comes to hair loss.  More research is clearly needed.  The general rule of thumb when it comes to vitamins is to supplement if there’s a deficiency.  Particular deficiencies can be associated with the three types of alopecia we discussed.  Here are the three most common:

Vitamin D

Research has demonstrated that people with telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia, and alopecia areata are likely to have vitamin D deficiencies. (01)  The greater the deficiency, the greater the hair loss.  Vitamin D is absorbed into the skin by keratinocyte cells.  The cells process keratin which is found in your hair, nails, and skin.  When your body has a vitamin D deficiency, the keratinocytes in your hair follicles have difficulty regulating the growth and resting phases of the hair cycle.  

Iron

In addition to checking for Vitamin D3 deficiencies, dermatologoists typically check their patients’ iron levels. Iron deficiency inhibits hemoglobin production which produces the oxygen responsible for hair cell growth and repair.  Low iron is a common cause of alopecia and can easily be remedied with a supplement.  

Biotin

People don’t typically have Biotin, Vitamin B7, deficiencies in industrialized countries.  A regular diet typically provides enough nutrients to ensure adequate levels.  However, some research studies have demonstrated that biotin deficiencies often exist in people with hair loss. (02)(03)  Experts have conflicting views on whether biotin supplements are necessary, even when there’s a deficiency.  It’s best to consult with your dermatologist on this one.  

Should You Take Vitamins if You Don’t Have a Deficiency?

Even if you don’t have a deficiency, it’s tempting to take vitamins to see if they will help regrow or thicken your hair.  More isn’t always better though, especially in this case.  Taking too many supplements or the wrong type of supplements can create issues.  For example, extra vitamin A or vitamin E can cause hair loss, which is what you are trying to prevent in the first place.  

Prescription Medications Are Often Used With Vitamins to Get Better Results

If your dermatologist doesn’t think that you are a good candidate for vitamin supplementation, prescription medications may be a good alternative.  This is especially true if you have been diagnosed with male or female pattern baldness.  Medications commonly prescribed include:

Minoxidil (FDA Approved)

A vasodilator designed to enlarge the hair follicles so you can start to regrow your hair.  

Finasteride, Proscar, Propecia (FDA Approved)

A medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT that attacks your hair follicles.

Dutasteride, Avodart (Not FDA Approved)

A DHT blocker prescribed as a second-line medication if Finasteride does not give the desired results.

Spironolactone (Not FDA Approved)

A DHT blocker prescribed only to women as a second-line medication if Finasteride does not give the desired results.

Minoxidil and Finasteride are both available in oral and topical formulas.  Topicals are often preferred, especially among men, because they do not cause sexual side effects such as lower libido.  Topical medications have been proven to be just as effective as oral medications.

The most effective hair loss plans often combine vitamins and other over-the-counter treatments with prescription medications. Vitamin D, Minoxidil, and Finasteride would be a logical combination if a person with androgenetic alopecia has a vitamin D deficiency.  Prescriptions that effectively combine multiple topical medications into one are available and are convenient and easy to use.  

Some Supplements Have Shown Moderate Improvement in Hair Loss

Although they are supplements rather than vitamins, there has been a lot in the news lately about pumpkin seed oil, saw palmetto, and rosemary oil.  While not quite as effective as Finasteride, these supplements have demonstrated a significant increase in hair growth. (04)  These supplements may be a good adjunct therapy when combined with prescription hair loss medication.

Curcumin, the active ingredient derived from turmeric, is known as a natural anti-inflammatory.  Interestingly, curcumin did not improve hair growth on its own, but it did give positive results when combined with Minoxidil.  The hypothesis is that the curcumin helped the Minoxidil better penetrate the scalp.  However, more research still needs to be conducted.  

Garlic gel, derived from onions, scallions, shallots, leeks, and chives, doesn’t live up to the hype.  Users did not see a significant difference in hair growth.  

As with any product you try as a hair loss solution, make sure to consult with your dermatologist first.  Even products that seem innocuous can have side effects or contradict other medications.  Your dermatologist is the best person to evaluate your treatment plan and determine the best mix of prescription and over-the-counter options.  

What To Do If Vitamins Aren’t the Answer to Your Hair Loss

Vitamins can be helpful if your bloodwork indicates that you have certain deficiencies.  If not, proceed with caution.  Even the most effective supplements aren’t typically as strong as prescription medications to slow hair loss and stimulate growth.  If you need an alternative solution for your thinning or balding hair, Finasteride, Minoxidil, and other medications are effective and are available by prescription.  For more information about your options, contact us.  Our board-certified dermatologists and hair specialists are available to answer your questions and make recommendations based on the type of alopecia you have.  We can even customize a formula to meet your specific needs.

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34553483/

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4989391/#:~:text=Biotin%20deficiency%20was%20found%20in,risk%20factors%20for%20biotin%20deficiency.

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6388561/

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6388561/

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6388561/