Aging comes with a plethora of issues. Our bodies start to ache with the slightest bit of movement, skin gets dull and lined with wrinkles and, most of all….hair loss.
Hair loss affects more people than we know. Approximately 66% of men start losing their hair before 35 while 40% of women will have visible hair loss by 40. This progressive and partial baldness is known as Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), which is a common pattern hair loss in both men and women. In men, it is known as male-pattern hair loss (MPHL) and female-pattern hair loss (FPHL) when it affects the women.
The progression of Female pattern hair loss on the Ludwig scale: Presents with diffuse thinning and decreased hair density; frontal hairline intact; negative pull test away from hair loss
Accentuation of hair loss in vertex and frontal areas creates a “Christmas Tree” pattern in women.
The progression of Male pattern hair loss on the Ludwig scale: Presents with hair thinning; M pattern; negative pull test away from hair loss
Hair loss typically starts at the temples, hairline and the crown of the head, resulting in an A or M shape baldness.
Gender-Based Differences
As compared to men, hair follicles in women have:
- 18 times lower levels of plasma testosterone
- 50% less expression of 5α-Reductase (an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, causing hair loss)
- 40% less expression of androgen receptor protein
- 600% higher expression of aromatase enzyme
Research has found that the role of testosterone is not central in FPHL. The study states that FPHL is present in individuals with Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome and suggested that hormones such as 17 beta estradiol and prolactin may have a role. Additionally, the natural balance of the hair growth cycle is affected in sensitive follicles.
While dealing with balding issues, many may experience a decrease in quality of life. Research by the American Academy of Family Physicians states that’ “Hair loss (alopecia) affects men and women of all ages and often significantly affects social and psychologic well-being.” A lower self-esteem and confidence may be a result of hair loss and it is an issue that many would scramble to fix.
Causes of Hair Loss
There are a variety of contributing factors that cause hair loss. A research on common hair disorders found that these are some of the common causes of hair loss:
- Systemic/Chronic illnesses – autoimmune disorder or cancer
- Infection – systemic or local
- Medication exposure – especially chemotherapy, or serious illness within previous 3 – 4 months
- Psychiatric disorder – psychosis, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder
- Physical stress – surgery, pregnancy, malnutrition or life-threatening psychologic stress
- Hair style – tight braids or “pulled back” hairstyle
Common medical conditions causing hair loss
Scalp diseases such as seborrheic dermatitis – a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects several parts of the body, can also cause hair loss. A study on the impact of scalp condition on hair growth found that, “there is a wealth of observational data on specific dermatological conditions of the scalp providing evidence for the role of the scalp condition in supporting the production of healthy hair.” The study also states that “Oxidative stress, the inability of the body to sufficiently counteract the sources of oxidation, is prevalent in many skin conditions, including normal skin aging. On the scalp, the hair appears to be impacted prior to emergence, and oxidative stress appears to play a role in premature hair loss.”
Another condition known as telogen effluvium occurs when there is an increase in number of hairs that move to the resting (telogen) phase of the hair cycle from the growing (anagen) phase, and these hairs fall in a few months. Research has shown that an average of 100 hairs are lost each day but is increased significantly by telogen effluvium. A study on treating hair loss has found that “Telogen effluvium may be precipitated by severe illness, injury, infection, surgery, crash diets, psychological stress, giving birth, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, anemia, or drugs. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause telogen effluvium, which is usually reversible when the thyroid status is corrected (except in long-standing hypothyroidism).”
Treatments for Hair Loss
There are a variety of ways to combat hair loss, starting with a balanced diet and regular exercise and minimize stress levels as these are contributing factors to hair loss. Keep hair short to prevent hair loss as long hair is heavier and this increases hair loss. Additionally, there are a few things to avoid:
- Tying hair too tightly as this causes traction which results in an increase of hair fall.
- Coloring, perming or straightening hair as research found that harsh chemicals involved in such procedures can increase hair loss. In hair dyes, hydrogen peroxide and monoethanolamine leads to hair dye-associated dermatitis and hair loss.
- 2-in-1 shampoos as they contain conditioner that is suitable for the hair but not the scalp.
In mild to moderate hair loss, non-invasive procedures such as topical products or oral medication and supplement can be used to reduce hair loss. If hair loss persists, minimally invasive in-clinic treatments will be needed, this involves micro injections on the scalp.
At times, a combination of non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments will be needed. One thing to note – it is imperative to treat mild to moderate hair loss while hair follicles are still active and are easier to manage with non-invasive procedures. Consult a doctor if hair loss is due to a medical condition. If hair loss is severe, a hair transplant will be a more suitable course of treatment.
Topical Products
Viviscal Pro
Viviscal Professional Shampoo cleanses the hair and scalp to promote hair growth. Combined with Biotin, Collagen & Keratin, promoting the appearance of healthy looking hair growth. Viviscal hair care contains Ana:Tel, a proprietary complex that includes clinically tested ingredients derived from natural sources such as pea sprouts and grape seeds.
Viviscal Professional Conditioner provides lightweight moisture to promote the appearance of healthy-looking hair growth. Also contains the proprietary complex known as Ana:Tel.
CG210 Hair Essence
Featuring a blend of patented botanical essence – Cellium, CG210 is a hair and scalp essence for men and women. It is hypoallergenic, made with a non-oily formula to help manage hair loss through protecting and strengthening hair from the roots. Studies show that CG210 reduces scalp inflammation, increases scalp collagen by 80% after 4 months and normalize hair growth in 44 days and shedding. Additionally, 53% of users perceived increase in hair thickness after 14 days and clinical improvement was observed in 96% of subjects. Active ingredients include:
- Allium Cepa (Onion) Buld Extract
- Citrus Limon Fruit Extract
- Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract
- Paullinia Cupana Extract
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical solution that is applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and to reduce hair loss. It thickens hair strands and prolongs the growing phase of the hair. For male or female pattern hair loss, hair growth usually occurs after at least 3 – 6 months of use and lasts while minoxidil is used continually. If minoxidil treatment is stopped, hair loss will begin within a few months. There are certain side effects may occur but could go away during treatment. Side effects include:
- Irritation of the scalp – stop using minoxidil if the irritation continues or decrease the dosage or frequency of application of minoxidil. Another form of minoxidil preparation or medications may be prescribed by the doctor to treat the scalp irritation.
- Temporary hair loss – may occur in the first 1 – 2 months of treatment, hair loss is temporary. If hair loss persists after 2 months, stop using minoxidil.
- Unwanted facial/body hair – avoid dripping the solution over the face and forehead, and/or decrease the concentration of minoxidil. If symptoms persist, do consult a doctor.
Medication or Supplements for Hair Loss:
A common medication that is prescribed to men for hair loss is finasteride. Finasteride can help treat male pattern hair loss. Finasteride blocks the action of an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme changes testosterone to another hormone – dihydrotestosterone that causes hair loss in males. However, research has found that finasteride has a small percentage of side effects in men, “sexual adverse effects occur at the rates of 2.1% to 3.8%, erectile dysfunction (ED) being the commonest followed by ejaculatory dysfunction and loss of libido.”
Many who are seeking for hair loss solutions may prefer to avoid the risk of medications. One alternative is the Miriqa hair supplement – an all-natural, drug-free supplement for both men and women. Clinically-proven ingredients include:
Tocotrienol is a potent anti-oxidant belonging to the vitamin E family that activates hair cells. A study conducted by Universiti Sains Malaysia has shown tocotrienol increases hair numbers in subjects suffering from hair loss. Additionally, the study states that this is due to the “potent antioxidant activity of tocotrienols that help to reduce oxidative stress in the scalp, known to be associated with alopecia.”
Saw Palmetto Berries inhibit an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which attaches to and triggers receptors to miniature hair follicles resulting in thinner hair shafts. A study by the Faculty of Cosmetology and Educational Sciences has found that Saw Palmetto Berries reduces the destructive DHT level.
Tripeptide Collagen which is collagen found in the scalp and this diminishes as we age. As collagen production slows down (approximately by age 30 onwards), the strength of hair follicles decreases. Collagen is akin to the scaffolds for a strong and healthy scalp and reduced levels leads to lower hair growth and thinning hair. Clinical studies have shown increase in thickness of hair shafts after subjects consume tripeptide collagen.
Biotin is an essential micronutrient, known as vitamin B7 that is needed for beautiful hair and skin.
Keratin Forte is a key structure for hair and nails and it protects epithelial cells from damage. Keratin has been shown to reduce hair loss, increase hair strength and brightness. A study published by The Scientific World Journal found that Keratin Forte has significant improvement on reducing hair loss and conclude that hair shine and brightness also improved.
Another option would be the Viviscal Pro Hair Nutritional Supplement – a dietary, drug-free supplement that is scientifically formulated with AminoMar C marine complex to help with thinning hair and promoting existing hair growth for both men and women. This supplement can help those with hair that is prone to breakage and shedding due to poor diet, hormonal change, age, stress, post-pregnancy, heat or coloring and chemically damaged hair. A clinical trial by Viviscal showed a significant increase of hair in 80% of the participants after consuming the supplement. Ingredients include: AminoMar C marine complex, apple extract powder, biotin, vitamin C, L-Cystine and L-Methionine.
In-clinic treatments:
If medications and supplements do not achieve the desired effect, in-clinic treatments may be needed. Self-diagnosis is never recommended across all treatments. A consultation with a certified doctor who has the experience and tools to analyze your condition to make a good assessment is key in treating hair loss.
At Ageless Medical, we adopt a customized approach in identifying the steps to take to treat hair loss. We look at family history, diet plans and various factors that could cause hair loss before determining the treatment plan. At times, a combination of in-clinic treatment is recommended along with oral hair supplement.
Regenera Activa is a kind of regenerative medicine that extracts healthy hair follicle cells from the back of the scalp, clinically administered and treated so they become more absorbable and turns them into “micrografts” – which are then injected back onto your scalp to stimulate growth in areas that are experiencing hair loss.
Another treatment over at Ageless-Medi Aesthetics is the SC Hair Growth program – a hair restoration and regeneration treatment that stimulates dormant hair follicles, improves the appearance of thinning hair, and promotes fuller, thicker and healthier tresses.
The Battle Plan
So here’s the plan – we could start early by reducing hair loss and increasing hair growth with thicker hair shaft, through the above mentioned treatments and/or supplement. Mild to moderate hair loss can be salvaged with these solutions. Ultimately, if hair loss is severe, a hair transplant is needed. Therefore, we strongly encourage that you seek treatment early with an experienced doctor, as the treatments above can only be performed by trained doctors (Regenera Activa) or therapists (SC Hair Growth Program).
To find out more about hair loss and treatment programs, please contact the doctor or therapists at Ageless Medical.
Ageless Medical
Tel: +65 6734 4007
WhatsApp (Call/Message): +65 8181 0680
Email: enquiry@iamageless.com.sg
Reference:
https://europepmc.org/article/med/21061765#abstract
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0701/p93.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1743609515335566
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6369642/
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0815/p356.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0923181111003653
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6586015/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3481923/
https://www.nsc.com.sg/Patient-Guide/Health-Library/List-of-Dermatological-Drugs/Pages/Minoxidil-(Topical).aspx
