hair loss Archives | Happy Head

Tag Archive for: hair loss

The Impact of Hair Loss on Mental Health

“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

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!

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:

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.
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)
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)
Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc, and biotin, can contribute to hair loss or thinning. (04)
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.
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

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.

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

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 losing your hair 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 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
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

Retinol

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 Retinol 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/

Diet and Hair Loss: Is There a Relationship?

When you’re losing your hair, you’ll try just about anything to make it stop. Shampoos, conditioners, essential oils, vitamins… they’re all fair game. The easier and less invasive, the better. So, it’s only natural that diet is a hot topic. Diet is a manageable lifestyle change that could make a difference.

But, if you’re like most people, you probably have more questions than answers when it comes to how diet and nutrition affect your hair. According to a 2017 study conducted by the International Food Information Council (IFIC), there’s a lot of conflicting information, causing confusion about what to eat. Determining whether specific foods will help or hurt your hair loss condition is even more challenging. We hear it all the time from patients. “Can alopecia be reversed by changing my diet?” “Which diet will best reduce the inflammation on my scalp?” “Do I have to go gluten, dairy, and sugar-free?”

Before you resort to radical measures, keep reading. We’ll help you separate truth from fiction and share firsthand information from our own Dr. Ben Behnam, board-certified dermatologist and co-owner of Happy Head hair loss solutions.

Can Improving Your Diet Prevent Further Hair Loss and Stimulate Growth?

Does what you eat affect your hair? That’s the question that most people want to be answered. After all, why bother changing your diet if it won’t make a difference? The answer is yes; nutrition may indeed affect your hair. One study found that nutritional deficiencies can cause telogen effluvium, androgenetic alopecia, or alopecia areata. It also found that over-supplementation can lead to hair loss as well.

The Wrong Diet Really Can Cause Scalp Inflammation

Nutritional deficiencies aren’t the only problem. Scalp inflammation caused by an unhealthy diet is another issue. A high fat, high-cholesterol diet has been found to stimulate the inflammatory process on the scalp. A study conducted in 2018 found that mice who were fed a traditional western diet experienced skin discoloration, inflammation, and hair loss. The mice’s hair turned black, gray, then white before falling out. The diet, which induced inflammation, mimicked the aging process in humans and aged the mice’s hair by 36 weeks. The hypothesis is that when what you eat generates an inflammatory response, it causes your hair to age prematurely.

Which Diet Should You Choose to Prevent Hair Loss?

Now that we’ve established that the wrong diet is a recipe for disaster when it comes to your hair, which diet should you consider? Keto, Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), Mediterranean… the list of possibilities seems endless. The truth is that further research is needed on the use of diet in alopecia treatment. One study indicates that the Mediterranean diet, which contains foods with anti-inflammatory properties, may stimulate hair growth and health among people with androgenetic alopecia. Figuring out the differences between each diet gets tricky, though. In many cases, overlap exists in the philosophies behind the diets.

A Protein-rich Diet Helps Build Keratin

Regardless of which diet you choose, it’s important to select a protein-rich diet filled with fresh, unprocessed foods. Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a mixture of filament-forming proteins. To make keratin, your body needs protein. All protein is not created equal, though, according to Dr. Behnam. “Select pasture-raised chickens, raised on a farm and not in a cage,” says Behnam. “When chickens are trapped in a cage, their testosterone levels increase from the stress of being in the cage. When you eat caged chicken, you get extra testosterone that can potentially convert to DHT leading to more hair loss.”

Vegetarians Often Lack Enough Protein in Their Diets

Dr. Behnam finds that his patients who are vegetarians tend to lack the protein and vitamins necessary for adequate hair growth. We’ll talk a little more about vitamins later, so let’s focus on protein for now. Some excellent sources of plant protein can compensate for animal protein. Those sources include nuts and nut butter, lentils, beans, peas, leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and brussel sprouts.

Dr. Behnam is a big advocate of protein powder, not only for vegetarians, but for all of his patients. It’s important to use the right type, though. According to Behnam, “Two types of protein powder are on the market. One is whey protein isolate. Whey protein isolate powder is easily found in retail stores in muscle milk, and other types of sports shakes. It’s less expensive. The only problem is that whey protein isolate increases the concentration of amino acids such as valine and isoleucine, which lead to higher testosterone production. That extra testosterone has the potential to convert to DHT and cause hair loss. The solution is to use whey protein concentrate. Whey protein concentrate is harder to find, but it will boost your protein without increasing your testosterone or DHT levels.”

Do You Have to Give Up Caffeine?

If you can’t seem to get moving in the morning without a cup of coffee, don’t despair. “Caffeine doesn’t affect testosterone levels,” says Dr. Behnam. “You can enjoy it without worrying. I recommend that you stay away from energy drinks, soy milk, and anything high in MSG, though.”

Nutritional Supplements

Vitamins and supplements aren’t a big deal to most people. You don’t need a prescription to get them, so they’re safe, right? Not so fast. Vitamins and supplements aren’t always as innocuous as they seem. There are a couple of things you need to know:

The FDA does not regulate dietary supplements
Over-supplementation of selenium, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and other vitamins have been associated with hair loss

That said, Dr. Behnam usually tests his patients’ Vitamin D and iron levels because deficiencies are prevalent and are well-documented reasons for hair loss. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle. While the exact reason why iron deficiency causes hair loss is unknown, reversal of iron deficiency in mice led to a reversal of hair loss.

Here’s the inside scoop on other essential vitamins:

Biotin

There has been a lot of hype about biotin supplements, shampoos, conditioners, and more. Truth be told, biotin deficiency is rare. Clinical trials have not shown biotin to be effective in stimulating hair growth without a true deficiency.

Zinc

Zinc deficiency can be either acquired or inherited. It is common among vegetarians since vegetables contain less zinc than meat. Zinc deficiency causes telogen effluvium and brittle hair.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is the main ingredient in retinoids and retinoic acid. It has been proven to work in conjunction with Minoxidil and Finasteride to increase absorption of the medications. Vitamin A deficiency does not cause hair loss, although a connection between over-supplementation and hair loss has been found.

Vitamin E

It’s not common for people to have vitamin E deficiencies. More research needs to be conducted, but in one small study with 21 participants, people who received vitamin E supplements had an increase in hair count compared to people in the placebo group. Too much vitamin E is too much of a good thing. It can increase the risk of bleeding and decrease thyroid hormone production, resulting in hair loss.

Balancing Your Diet Is A Process

Learning how to eat for healthy hair takes time. Sometimes you don’t know if changing your eating habits or adding a particular vitamin will help until you try it. If you’ve already been diagnosed with male or female pattern hair loss or some other type of alopecia, supplementing your diet with topical medications such as Minoxidil, Finasteride, Spironolactone, or Duasteride may be a good option for you. Topical medications have been found to be as effective as oral medications without the bothersome side effects. Even better, like your diet, our formulas can be customized to meet your specific needs. For more information, contact us to determine whether you are a good candidate for Happy Head or one of our other prescription-grade hair loss solutions.

Resources:

(01) https://foodinsight.org/survey-nutrition-information-abounds-but-many-doubt-food-choices/

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6065400/

(04) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7109385/

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(06) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(07) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(08) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582478/#:~:text=Despite%20its%20popularity%20in%20the,multiple%20factors%2C%20including%20patient%20history.

(09) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(10) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

(11) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

Signs of Balding and What to Look For

For both men and women, hair changes the older they become. Most adults understand that some hair loss is inevitable with age. But when it begins to occur, spotting the signs of hair loss and balding can still be tricky. Detecting the signs of balding is essential because early intervention is the key to successful hair loss treatment.

What Are the Early Signs of Hair Loss?

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 50% of men and women will experience hair loss in their lifetime. And although hair loss occurs in more men than women, the emotional impact of hair loss affects both equally. Because emotions can affect how each person faces hair loss, becoming familiar with the signs can help individuals approach the experience objectively and sensibly.

Here are a few signs to look for if you suspect you’re experiencing hair loss:

Sunburns on Your Scalp

Like the skin on the rest of the body, scalp tissue is vulnerable to sunburns. Fortunately, a full head of hair offers excellent protection against the sun’s harsh rays. Thick hair typically provides enough sun protection to keep the scalp from sunburning. The more hair thins, however, the less cover there is to protect the scalp. Sunburns on the scalp develop when there isn’t enough hair to sufficiently shield the area from direct sunlight. If your scalp is typically not sensitive to sunlight, but you find that scalp sunburns are occurring more frequently – you may be experiencing balding or profuse hair loss. (01)

A Receding Hairline

A receding hairline can be tricky to spot if hair loss occurs gradually. The process happens bit by bit, making it hard to determine whether a receding hairline is more about lighting and angles and less about actual hair loss. Before deciding your hairline is receding, become familiar with what kind of hairline you have.

- Low hairline. Low hairlines are closer to the brow line, with a smaller forehead space. A receding hairline is more challenging to spot with low hairlines because they are less noticeable.
- Middle hairline. Middle hairlines are what most people would consider a “normal” hairline. These hairlines are set toward the upper-middle portion of the forehead. A receding hairline typically appears as an M-shape with a middle hairline, with the hairline receding further up on the sides.
- High hairline. High hairlines start at the crown, making the forehead space appear larger. A high hairline may seem as if the hairline is already receding, although it simply is a person’s inherited appearance.
- Straight-lined. Straight-lined hairlines don’t follow the natural curvature of the head. Instead, the hairline flows straight across the forehead, with sharp 90-degree angles on either side. Some men may style their hair this way, or it can be an inherited trait. A receding hairline may create a crooked hairline where one was typically straight, making it easier to spot.

Triangular hairline. Triangular hairlines start low at the temples and reach a high point in the center. Receding hairlines may be more apparent on triangular hairlines because of how low the hairline typically begins at the sides.
Uneven hairline. Uneven hairlines are common because most hairlines aren’t perfectly shaped or symmetric. Uneven hairlines can also result from excessive hairstyling or tight headwear, making receding hairlines difficult to detect.

Men, in particular, are prone to a hairline that recedes when they start balding. For example, one of the most common signs of androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is a receding hairline. Anyone wanting to check their hairline for signs of balding or hair loss should first familiarize themselves with their typical hairline. Taking periodic photographs can give you a baseline for comparison.

A Bad Hair Day, Every Day

Are you noticing that your hair won’t fall in the same hairstyle you’ve worn for years? If you see that your hair is tougher to manage or doesn’t look the same way it used to, it may be a sign of hair loss or balding. Keep in mind that the weather, new hair products, or hard water can affect your hairstyle. However, if you’re struggling to shape your hair into its typical “look,” it might be because you’re working with less hair. Hair loss can influence how your hair flows and falls, changing how your hair appears in the morning or when styled.

A Larger Crown Area

In men with androgenetic alopecia and females with female pattern baldness, balding may start at the crown. Hair follicles become sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a by-product of the hormone testosterone, resulting in thinning hair, particularly in the crown area. Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is another type of hair loss that begins at the top of the head or the crown as an expanding bald area. (02)

Unfortunately, the crown area is probably not something most people see, making it hard to assess for changes. If you’re concerned about balding, it’s a good idea to become familiar with your crown area. Use two mirrors to get a good look at the crown of your head or enlist the help of another person. If you notice more scalp showing through than usual – or there’s an obvious gap that’s visible to others – then you may be experiencing balding or hair loss.

More Stray Hairs Everywhere

Just like animals, humans shed their hair naturally each day. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), humans shed about 50 to 100 hairs daily. (03) Keep that number in mind when evaluating the stray hairs you see in the shower drain or on your pillowcase!

In some instances, however, humans shed more hair than usual. Telogen effluvium, for example, occurs when stress or illness causes the temporary shedding of an excessive amount of hair. Furthermore, women experiencing female pattern baldness may need to rely on this sign of balding (excessive stray hairs) more than others.

Unlike men, women don’t typically lose all their hair or become bald in one spot. For women, severe hair loss is generally scattered throughout the head. Their crowns and hairline may remain the same, though the hair cover in these areas may be lighter. Because of this, women may need to rely on spotting hair loss by keeping tabs on the number of stray hairs they find instead. (03)

Unreliable Signs of Balding

Often mistaken for definitive signs of balding, the following lead people to believe they are balding but are usually not connected to any actual hair loss.

Hair that appears thin when wet. After a shower or swim, hair can look stringy, and your scalp might appear more exposed. This is typical for wet hair and not a sign of hair loss.
An itchy, flaky scalp. Some people associate an itchy scalp with hair loss. In most cases, however, an itchy scalp is due to something easier to treat — like dandruff or eczema.

It Looks Like I’m Balding. Now what?

If you spot signs that you’re losing an excessive amount of hair or going bald, seek advice from a doctor right away. A thorough evaluation, whether in person or online, can determine whether you’re experiencing typical hair shedding or if you’re going bald. An expert can ease your fears by answering your questions and finding effective interventions. Treating hair loss as quickly as possible can keep you from losing more hair in the long run.

At Happy Head, we schedule customer consultations with a board-certified dermatologist. Our doctors work with you to determine whether you’re a good candidate for our customizable topical hair loss medication. Want more information? Start a free consultation now.

Resources:

(01) https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2009/0815/p356.html

(02) https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types

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

Smoking and Hair Loss: The Truth You Need to Know

If you’re a smoker, you’re probably already well aware of why you should quit. Between your family using every scare tactic in the book and chilling public service announcements featuring people suffering from various types of cancers and lung diseases, you know the risks more than anyone. Beating the addiction is hard, though. In fact, it’s so difficult that 80 percent of people who try to quit smoking on their own start again within a month. (01)

Just in case you need a little more incentive to kick the habit for good, consider this: according to several research studies, nicotine can induce hair loss. Sure, you know how harmful cigarettes and vapes are to your body, but you probably didn’t expect to go bald from them. What else do you need to know about the effects of smoking on your hair? Keep reading, and we’ll fill you in on the latest.

Nicotine Accelerates Hair Loss

Not only can continual use of nicotine lead to a heart attack, but it is also believed that smoking may be responsible for accelerating hair loss. One study found that 85 percent of men who smoked had a form of androgenic alopecia, male pattern baldness. Among the men in the non-smokers’ group, only 40 percent exhibited signs of male pattern hair loss. The difference in hair loss was significant. The study used the Hamilton-Norwood Scale, which categorizes hair loss on a scale of one to seven, with one being the least amount of hair loss. In the smoker group, 71 percent had grade III or grade IV hair loss. However, in the non-smoker group, only ten percent of the participants reached grade III or IV. (02)

Smoking Ages Your Scalp

So the next question is, why do experts believe smoking leads to hair loss? You know how smoking is known for giving people leathery alligator skin? It has the same effect on your hair. The reason why stems from a few different factors.

Smoking reduces the blood flow to your hair follicles.

When you smoke, your blood vessels constrict, limiting how much blood flows to your organs. Over time, the continual constriction stiffens the blood vessels and makes them less elastic. When this happens, your cells don’t get the amount of oxygen and nutrients needed to thrive. When your hair follicles are deprived of oxygen, miniaturization occurs, disrupting your hair’s growth cycle. The hair follicle shrinks and eventually blocks the growth of new hair.

Breathing in smoke can damage your hair’s DNA.

Smoke causes environmental effects that inhibit hair growth. DNA contains genetic material that serves as our hair’s building blocks. When carcinogens from cigarette smoke damage the DNA, keratin, a protein that makes-up 95 percent of your hair, cannot be produced.

Smoking causes inflammation.

Smoking stimulates follicular inflammation, a key feature in male and female pattern hair loss. In a 2020 research study on androgenic alopecia, approximately 71 percent of biopsy samples of patients with male or female pattern baldness showed signs of inflammation. (03)

Smoking decreases estrogen levels.

It is well documented that smoking decreases estrogen levels in women, which can lead to earlier onset of menopause. When estrogen levels drop, hair grows slower and thinner. Lower estrogen levels also lead to an increase in androgens which cause female pattern baldness. (04)

Smoking prematurely turns your hair gray.

In an observational research study, people who smoked were two and a half times more likely to have gray hair before age 30 than non-smokers. (05) The study mentioned that the cause of premature graying is not yet known. One hypothesis is that melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing color, are damaged in people who smoke.

If You’re Thinking About Getting a Hair Transplant, Stop Smoking

Many reputable dermatologists and hair specialists refuse to perform hair transplants on patients who smoke. The reason why is because oxygen is critical to the survival of transplanted follicles and helping the wounds heal. Smoking causes poor blood circulation, which could result in the death of the skin tissue on the scalp and even post-operative infections. (06) Another reason why is because nicotine in the blood vessels increases bleeding and inhibits clotting during the healing process.

Vaping Can Cause More Damage Than Traditional Cigarettes

What about vaping? It’s safer than smoking cigarettes, right? Not exactly. Vaping has skyrocketed in popularity across all ages groups in the past few years due to the sweet taste and lack of stale smell. What many people don’t realize, however, is that JUUL, MarkTen Elite, PAX Era, and most other types of e-cigarettes contain more nicotine than traditional cigarettes.

Although no studies are available, anecdotally, one can make the connection that nicotine from vape pens is equally harmful, if not worse, for your hair than traditional cigarettes. Regardless of the source, nicotine has been proven to cause oxidative stress, which can impair your hair’s growth and cause hair loss. (07)

The Jury is Out on Marijuana

Recreational marijuana is currently legal in 19 states, Washington D.C., and Guam. (08) Marijuana must not be harmful if it’s legal, right? Well, the jury is out. A study conducted in 2007 by the University of Debrecen indicates that the THC in marijuana can lead to hair loss. (09)

Marijuana contains cannabinoid compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-known. THC is the main psychoactive compound. It’s the one that makes people feel high. CBD is derived from hemp plants and does not cause a high or lead to addiction. When it comes to your hair, THC is the troublemaker. According to the study, the THC in marijuana can attach to receptors in your body, including your hair follicles, which causes hair loss. Not much research has been conducted since to qualify or negate the study.

We believe that the study is accurate because marijuana and other drugs can be detected in hair samples for up to 90 days prior to the test. (10) It makes sense that if the THC attaches to the follicles and sticks around for a while, it could cause damage.

Treatment is Available to Reverse Hair Loss Caused By Smoking

Treatment is available if you’re experiencing hair loss from cigarettes, vapes, or marijuana. The first step is to stop smoking to prevent further damage. The next step is to consult with a dermatologist who is also a hair specialist. Although many hair loss remedies are available over the counter, the most effective ones are only available by prescription. A variety of medications can be prescribed to stimulate regrowth including:

Minoxidil

As mentioned previously, smoking can cause androgenic alopecia in people who are predisposed. When people get male or female pattern hair loss, their hair follicles shrink. Minoxidil enlarges miniaturized hair follicles to allow stronger, healthier hair to go to the surface of your scalp.

Finasteride

People who smoke and have male or female pattern baldness produce a chemical called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that is converted from Testosterone. DHT attacks the hair follicles and causes the hair to fall out. Finasteride is a DHT blocker that prevents testosterone from converting to DHT.

Spironolactone

Sprionolactone is a DHT blocker. The medication works similarly to Finasteride but is a bit stronger.

Retinoids

Retinoids are often used in conjunction with Minoxidil and Finasteride to increase absorption of medications that treat androgenic alopecia.

In many cases, combinations of these medications are most effective in promoting hair growth among former smokers. For example, Minoxidil combined with Finasteride and Retinol for absorption has been proven more effective than Minoxidil alone.

Quitting is the Best Way to Preserve Your Hair

If you’re really worried about losing your hair, the best route is to quit smoking. Kicking the habit isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. You’ll look better and your health will improve.

According to the American Cancer Society, the best strategy is to quit one day at a time. A day turns into a week, a week turns into a month, the months turn into years, and before you know it, you’ll have broken the habit. Sure, it sounds simple, but we realistically know it’s not. Here are some other helpful tips:

Stay busy and spend time in public places where smoking is prohibited
Replace the feeling of holding a cigarette or joint with a paper clip, marble, or coin
Chew gum or eat lollipops as a substitute
Avoid places, activities, and people that you associate with smoking
Exercise
Create a support system of family members and friends who you can call when you have a craving

Many good resources and programs are available to help you as well. Here are three that we recommend. All of these organizations provide trusted information and support.

American Cancer Society

If you’re considering quitting, you don’t have to do it alone. During The Great American Smokeout annual event, thousands of people commit to a smoking cessation program on the third Thursday in November.

American Lung Association

The American Lung Association offers a Lung Helpline & Tobacco Quitline staffed by licensed registered nurses, respiratory therapists, and certified tobacco treatment specialists. The staff is a wealth of knowledge and can help connect you with a support group, find a doctor, and even answer questions about health insurance.

National Cancer Institute

Smokefree.gov, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, offers free tech programs to help you go smokefree. One innovative program is a texting service that gives encouragement, advice, and tips to help you quit. The organization also offers apps that allow you to tag locations and time of day you need support, as well as social media support.

If you are a current or former smoker and your hair is thinning or balding as a result, Happy Head is here to help. Contact us so we can review your history and customize a prescription-grade hair loss solution for you.

Resources:

(01) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2928221/

(02) https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.13727

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7667670/

(04) https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/68894

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673399/

(06) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7484781/

(07) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2758082/

(08) https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/where-is-marijuana-legal-a-guide-to-marijuana-legalization

(09) https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1096/fj.06-7689com

(10) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5396143/