17 Jun 2013

ISHRS Hair Loss Statistics

ISHRS Hair Loss StatisticsIt is estimated that 530 million American men and women suffer with signs of thinning, shedding, or balding. According to recent statistics gathered by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), a majority of individuals choose to accept the state of their hair and live a life plagued with the unhappiness, social anxiety, and diminished self confidence. Yet statistics gathered by the ISHRS demonstrate that individuals who suffer with hair loss are ready and willing to make serious sacrifices to regain the hair of their youth. These hair loss statistics also illustrate that hair transplant surgery might be Americans’ best bet for overcoming the profoundly negative side effects of hair loss.

Below are the top hair loss statistics presented by the ISHRS in the publication, 2010 Hair Transplant Challenge Survey. For a full copy of this report, readers are invited to visit the URL in the Sources section at the end of this article.

Hair Loss Statistics Every Man and Woman Should Know

1. About 25% of Americans said that hair loss made them feel either less attractive or self conscious.

When it comes down to it, both men and women feel the social insecurity of hair loss. According to the ISHRS report, men were more likely to feel “less attractive” because of hair loss. Overall, younger people were most likely to feel either “less attractive” or “self conscious” with visible signs of balding.

2. Less than 5% of respondents said hair loss did not bother them.

It’s no surprise that so many men and women do feel bothered by hair loss. Hair is one of the first things we notice about another person, and many individuals associate attractive hairstyles with the formation of a good first impression. What is surprising, however, is just how small the percentage of men and women who are not bothered by hair loss at all. At 5%, this statistic demonstrates how far-reaching the negative mental and emotional side effects of hair loss can be.

3. About 73% of respondents said they would trade a personal possession for more hair.

It’s clear that men and women are prepared to make serious sacrifices to preserve their luscious locks, as evidenced by the 7 in 10 (73.1%) respondents who said they would trade a “treasured personal possession” for a shot at more hair.

4. About 50% of men and women say noticeable hair loss is a physical trait that makes them feel the most self conscious.

A majority of both men and women agree that signs of thinning, shedding, or balding hair make them feel more self conscious than most other traits. Specifically, respondents said hair loss made them feel more self conscious than being overweight, having skin or complexion problems, or having crooked teeth.

5. Nearly half of respondents would rather have more hair than friends or money.

When it comes to making serious life changes, nearly half of men and women agree they would rather have more hair (43.2%) than money or friends.

6. A majority (61.9%) of men and women felt having more hair would translate to greater success in advancing their career.

Whereas most of the aforementioned statistics have illustrated how men and women feel about their own hair loss, this statistic demonstrates how individuals feel they are perceived by others. When asked whether or not more hair might lead to a more successful career, 67.6% of younger respondents and 59.3% of older respondents said yes.

7. Of all respondents, only about 26% cited unnatural appearance as the reason they would hesitate to have a hair transplant procedure.

If you’re concerned that a hair transplant might look unnatural or “pluggy,” it’s probably the result of 1980s and 90s pop culture. Americans are beginning to understand that hair restoration and transplant technologies have significantly evolved since the 80s, as evidenced by this particular statistic. To learn more, readers may wish to read our article on the evolution of hair loss treatment.

8. Over 85% of respondents could not identify a patient who had a transplant operation.

This statistic illustrates a vital truth: Most Americans cannot tell whether or not a person has received a transplant, even if the photos are displayed right in front of them (as they were in this study). This is encouraging for individuals who may quickly dismiss the idea of a transplant for fear public embarrassment or ridicule, demonstrating instead that today’s technologies and procedures are nearly undetectable.

9. Over 65% of participants said patients who had a transplant procedure looked younger, healthier, and more attractive.

In addition to being nearly undetectable, hair transplants seem to produce results that are aesthetically pleasing. When presented with patients’ before and after photos, a majority of respondents (65%) said patients looked “younger,” “healthier,” and “more attractive” after their procedure.

This health report has been produced by the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. For additional information on our Institute, including hair loss evaluation and consultation services, readers are invited to contact our office directly at 1-877-443-9070.

Sources for this report include:

(i) “2010 Hair Transplant Challenge Survey.” International Society for Hair Restoration Surgery. Accessed 17 June 2013.

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13 Jun 2013

Fgf9 Protein Might Hold Cure for Baldness, Study Finds

Fgf9 Protein Might Hold Cure for Baldness, Study FindsResearchers at the University of Pennsylvania have made a surprising discovery that has the potential to make hair loss worries a thing of the past. The news is particularly exciting for some 500 million men and nearly 20 million women who suffer with thinning, shedding, or balding, as it may hold the key to permanently reversing the signs of hair loss.

Men and women who suffer with hair loss will have to wait for this new study to produce an effective cure, however. The research is based solely on trials conducted with laboratory mice, and extensive follow-up research and clinical trials are needed before hair transplant surgeons can hope to offer such a treatment to patients.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 (Fgf9) and Hair Follicle Growth

While studying the wound healing process in laboratory mice, researchers at the Department of Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania found that a specific type of immune system cell could be the key to curing baldness. The cell, called gamma-delta (γδ), produces a vital protein during the healing process. That protein, fibroblast growth factor 9 (Fgf9), also appears to fuel the growth of hair follicles.

It is important to note, however, that the human immune system differs from that of mice. Specifically, humans are markedly deficient in gamma-delta cells. This fact has led researchers to speculate that lack of gamma-delta cells is the reason why humans might experience difficulty regenerating hair in areas where a wound has healed.

George Cotsarelis, M.D., served on the University of Pennsylvania research team that conducted this groundbreaking study. As lead author, Dr. Cotsarelis made the following statement in a press release issued by the Perelman School of Medicine:

“The findings help explain why humans don’t regenerate their hair after wounding. The study also points us to a way to treat wounds and grow hair,” (i).

Testing the Hypothesis: How Fgf9 Stimulates Hair Follicle Growth

Researchers tested the exciting new link between the protein Fgf9 and hair follicle growth by dividing laboratory mice into 2 groups: A control group, and a test group.

For the control group, researchers simply monitored the occurrence of hair growth during and after the wound healing process. For the test group, however, researchers reduced the expression of the Fgf9 protein. Test group mice exhibited a marked decline in hair growth, leading researchers to attribute the deficiency to a lack of Fgf9 protein.

As a follow up, researchers decided to test the opposite. When enhancing the expression of Fgf9, mice in the test group exhibited approximately 2-3 times the hair growth as those in the control group (ii). As a result, researchers have good reason to believe that Fgf9 plays a critical role in the development of new, healthy, fully functional hair follicles.

This health report has been produced by the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. For additional information on our Institute, including hair loss evaluation and consultation services, readers are invited to contact our office directly at 1-877-443-9070.

Sources:

(i) “New Hope for Baldness Cure.” Medical Daily. Accessed 11 June 2013.

(ii) See above.

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3 Jun 2013

Losing Hair? You Could Have Hypertension

Losing Hair? You Could Have HypertensionHair transplant surgeons often encourage patients to monitor their hair for signs of thinning, shedding, and loss. Keeping tabs on hair health is about more than preserving appearance, however. An ever-growing body of research indicates that hair health is intricately tied to overall mental, physical, and emotional wellness. From stress-related shedding to loss caused by overzealous styling, there are a number of well-documented ways in which lifestyle can negatively (or positively) affect hair health.

Most recently, researchers have identified a new connection between hair and heart health. A Japanese team of scientists has found a convincing correlation between hair loss and hypertension, a condition more commonly referred to as high blood pressure. The findings are the result of a study of nearly 38,000 men and women in which participants who suffered with hair loss, specifically pattern baldness, were about 32% more likely to also exhibit signs of hypertension (i).

Hair Loss & Health: Why Consulting a Physician is a Big Deal

Researchers say their findings are important for at least two reasons. First, the study provides a serious word of caution to young men and women who first begin to lose their hair. With such a strong correlation between hair loss and hypertension, individuals who experience hair loss are wise to consult a physician about their physical health. Hypertension causes blood pressure to rise, which also causes the heart to work harder to circulate blood. Over time, this can make a patient more prone to heart attack and stroke. Hypertension is also associated with arterial diseases, kidney disease, and shorter life expectancy. In addition to consulting a physician about these conditions, individuals who experience hair loss may also wish to have blood analysis conducted to assess hormonal health.

Second, researchers say this study, along with others, helps to spread awareness for the way in which hair can be an external barometer for internal health. Lead researcher Dr. Erling Thom explains (ii):

“Through our research with Nourkrin and female hair loss, we have discovered that there are many health issues for men and women that can actually be identified at an early stage through looking for hair loss and thinning hair […]”

In this way, monitoring one’s hair for signs of thinning or shedding can ultimately provide an early alert that a larger health issue exists. In turn, patients who understand the risks associated with hair loss are more likely to consult a physician when it occurs, prompting early diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Erling elaborates:

“Losing hair is one of these very early signs [that your body is under stress from a disease], which up till now has not been treated with the respect it deserves, as a precursor to a more serious condition.”

This health report has been produced by the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. For additional information on our Institute, including hair loss evaluation and consultation services, readers are invited to contact our office directly at 1-877-443-9070.

Sources:

(i) “Hair Loss Could Be a Sign of Hypertension.” Maidenhead Online. Accessed 1 June 2013.

(ii) See above.

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31 May 2013

Timing of Radiation Therapy May Influence Hair Loss

Timing of Radiation Therapy May Influence Hair LossMore than 12 million Americans suffer with cancer, according to reports by the American Cancer Society. For many, radiation therapy is an effective method of preventing the spread of cancerous cells while also working to eliminate them entirely. Radiation therapy is known to harm healthy cells, however, which may cause a variety of side effects including hair loss.

For patients who experience hair loss during radiation therapy, new research suggests administering the treatment later in the day might mitigate such side effects. Scientists hope the study will provide a foundation for future research on further managing the toxic side effects of radiation therapy. For patients, the study provides hope that the unwanted side effects of cancer treatment, like hair loss, can be mitigated.

Managing the Toxic Effects of Radiation Therapy

Nearly half of all cancer patients will encounter radiation therapy as part of their treatment protocol, according to the National Cancer Institute (i). For some, radiation therapy is an effective means of managing, and ultimately killing, cancerous cells. Radiation therapy comes with a price, however.

Radiation therapy exposes the body to large amounts of high-energy radiation like x-rays, gamma rays, and other charged particles. These particles course through the patient’s body, seeking to shrink and kill cancer cells. Radiation cannot distinguish between cancer cells and healthy ones, however, and modern medicine has not yet developed a way to effectively hyper-target radiation to specific malignant cells. As a result, healthy cells are often killed along with cancerous ones.

Researchers from USC, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, and the University of California, Irvine (UCI) believe the toxic side effects of radiation therapy can be managed, however. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, their study evaluated the hair loss experienced by laboratory mice following radiation therapy at different times of day. Specifically, mice that received early morning radiation therapy lost approximately 85% of their body hair, whereas those treated later in the day lost as little as 17% (ii).

Researchers say the difference in hair loss is due to the circadian rhythm of the hair cells themselves. Most commonly referred to as an internal clock, the circadian rhythm of individual cells determines when biological processes are active (awake) or subdued (asleep). In the study above, researchers found the hair circadian rhythm of the mice to be inactive in the mornings and active in the evenings, a pattern that might account for the substantial difference in the hair loss exhibited by each test group.

Satchidananda Panda, co-lead investigator and associate professor in Salk’s Regulatory Biology Laboratory, explains (iii):

“Delivering a drug to an organ while it is largely inactive is not a good idea. You could do more damage to the organ than when it is awake, repairing and restoring itself. If you know when an organ is mending itself, you might be able to deliver more potent doses of a drug or therapy. That might offer a better outcome while minimizing side effects.”

This health report has been produced by the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. For additional information on our Institute, including hair loss evaluation and consultation services, readers are invited to contact our office directly at 1-877-443-9070.

Sources:

(i) “Radiation Therapy for Cancer.” National Cancer Institute. Accessed 30 May 2013.

(ii) “Timing of Radiation Therapy May Minimize Hair Loss.” Health Canal. Accessed 30 May 2013.

(iii) See above.

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21 May 2013

Hair Loss and Pregnancy

Hair Loss and Pregnancy Hair loss may occur during or after pregnancy, giving soon-to-be moms another item to add to a seemingly endless list of worries. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is common and usually only temporary.

There is an important distinction to be made, however. Hair loss can be caused by very different factors, depending on when it occurs. During pregnancy, hair loss could be a sign of hormonal imbalance or nutritional deficiency, which is reason enough to consult a physician (preferably your OB/GYN) and make adequate dietary changes. Hair loss is much more common after pregnancy, and new moms who experience this stress-related hair loss may have to take a very different course of action to restore their natural hair.

Is It Normal to Lose Hair While Pregnant?

Many soon-to-be mothers wonder, Is it normal to lose my hair during pregnancy? Though common, hair loss during pregnancy should not be taken lightly.

How to Avoid Hair Loss During Pregnancy. After consulting with a physician, it is recommended that pregnant women who experience symptoms of thinning or balding take a few steps to encourage natural, healthy hair growth:

1. Eat plenty of fruit. Fruit is naturally rich in vitamins, antioxidants, water, and other elements that are building blocks for hair health. For more ideas on how to eat for healthy hair, visit our Foods for Healthy Hair guide.

2. Stay hydrated. Water is critical, especially during pregnancy. It’s recommended that pregnancy women drink at least 8 glasses each day (60-70 ounces total). An additional glass of water is recommended for each hour of light to moderate exercise.

3. Speak to a Doctor About Your Thyroid. When speaking to Healthywomen.org, Dr. Dana Jacoby explains, “hair loss during pregnancy might be a sign of an underactive thyroid,” (i). Thyroid hormone is critical to the normal development of a baby’s brain and nervous system, making it vital to monitor the thyroid for abnormal hormone production and regulation.

4. Follow up with your doctor. When going for check-ups, follow up with your doctor regarding your experience with thin or balding hair. Depending on severity, women may wish to schedule a hair loss evaluation with a specialist to review treatment options.

Is It Normal To Lose Hair After Pregnancy?

It is much more common to lose hair after pregnancy, most commonly due to 2 main causes: Hormones, and stress.

1. Hormone-related Hair Loss After Pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman’s hormonal levels may change drastically. Most common is a rapid rise in the production of estrogen. Estrogen levels tail off significantly after childbirth, which may cause a corresponding loss of hair. Additionally, women who resume the use of certain birth control medications may likewise cause hormonal fluctuations that lead to hair loss.

2. Stress-related Hair Loss After Pregnancy. At times, hair loss can be caused be stress. Referred to as telogen effluvium, this condition is characterized by improper hair follicle function following periods of intense stress. The anxiety, responsibility, and physical/emotional demands of pregnancy and early motherhood (see below) can be enough to cause this unique type of stress-related hair loss. Women who are pregnant can proactively manage stress levels by taking time to relax each day with calming activities like yoga, meditation, reading, and breathing.

For more, new moms may wish to visit our guide, 6 Ways to Prevent Female Hair Loss and Telogen Effluvium.

Sources:

(i) Cassidy, Gwynn. “Hair Loss During Pregnancy?” Healthywomen.org. Accessed 18 May 2013.

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14 May 2013

Scientists Have Success with ‘Vampire Treatments’ for Baldness

Scientists Have Success with ‘Vampire Treatments’ for BaldnessResearchers have announced success in re-growing patients’ hair with a special solution of their own blood. These so-called vampire treatments for baldness involve strategically injecting areas of balding scalp with solutions of platelet rich plasma, or PRP, derived entirely from the patients’ blood.

The research is the product of scientists from the International Hair Research Foundation and University of Brescia, Italy. Just fewer than 50 patients were observed, and while many received PRP injections, a control group received only a placebo. Three total injections were administered to each patient, after which hair growth was measured. Researchers observed significant hair re-growth in patients treated with PRP injections, showing a strong correlation between PRP therapy and hair growth. Follow-up studies are to be conducted by teams at the Hebrew University Medical Centre in Israel, according to sources familiar with the matter.

“Alopecia is known to lead to overwhelming effects on the patient’s quality of life and self-esteem,” says Nina Goad of the British Association of Dermatologists, commenting on the importance of the research findings. “This could offer hope to thousands,” (i).

And while each patient in the study was treated for alopecia areata, researchers believe the injections may also help individuals suffering with pattern baldness.

“We think it can help to regrow hair on people with androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness),” explains Dr. Fabio Rinaldi. “We believe it is the best treatment available, apart from surgery.”

Use of PRP in Hair Transplant Surgery

Cosmetic surgeons are no strangers to PRP injections, which already used in procedures to reduce the effects of aging on the face and hands (i). At our Institute, PRP injections are likewise used to enhance the effectiveness and natural end-result of hair transplant procedures.

How it Works. Research suggests PRP injections may play a critical role in stimulating stem cell activity and growth beneath the surface of the skin. The corresponding increases in blood flow, nutrient/ oxygen delivery, and cellular growth may in turn support healthy hair follicle function. For patients undergoing a transplant procedure, PRP injections may ensure that transplanted follicular units [hairs] receive the nutrition and support necessary to grow, immediately.

Learn More About Our Institute

Our friendly staff includes South Florida’s finest hair transplant surgeons, microscopists, technicians, and registered nurses.  We understand the agony and frustration that accompanies hair loss, and we are committed to helping you develop a customized plan that will create natural results.

To learn more about hair evaluations, treatments, and procedures at the Hair Transplant Institute, please contact us online or call us directly at 1.877.443.9070.

Sources:

(i) “Scientists ‘Vampire Treatment’ for Baldness.” The Telegraph. Accessed May 10th, 2013.

(ii) See above.

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3 May 2013

Free Infographic: A Guide to Hair Loss Prevention for Women

Visit Us on Facebook for Free Hair Health InfographicsAll too often we associate hair loss with middle-aged men only. However, males are not the only ones losing their luscious locks. An estimated 20 million American women suffer with some form of hair loss, according to reports by the American Hair Loss Association. Causes may vary, but two of the most influential factors include heredity and hormones.

In terms of heredity, some women may be genetically predisposed to developing hair loss. Others may experience hair loss as the byproduct of significant hormonal changes, which might be the cause of lifestyle choices. Regardless of the root cause, there is much to gain by understanding a few hair loss prevention basics.

Preventing Female Hair Loss (infographic)

In the infographic below, we’ve identified a few Do’s and Don’ts that will help to proactively manage hair health. Click on the image to enlarge it, and email our Web team for a free copy to embed on your website or blog!

Free Infographic- Hair Loss Prevention for Women-thumbnail

Share This Infographic

Email our Web team to request a free copy of the embed code for this infographic, and share it on your own website or blog!

Learn More About Female Hair Loss Prevention

The Hair Transplant Institute of Miami is home of South Florida’s top hair transplant surgeons and restoration technologies. We are pleased to offer the most comprehensive and scientifically advanced hair loss evaluations, designed specifically to diagnose and treat hair loss in men and women with maximum effectiveness.

To schedule an appointment with our Institute, please call (305) 925-0222 or toll free (877) 443-9070.

 

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23 Apr 2013

Bald Men at High Risk for Coronary Artery Disease

Bald Men at High Risk for Coronary Artery DiseaseA new study released by the University of Tokyo has physicians warning middle-aged men to pay close attention to their hair and cardiovascular health. According to the study, men who suffer with pattern baldness are more likely to develop other serious cardiovascular health problems than men who do not exhibit visible signs of hair loss.

Male pattern baldness progresses in a somewhat predictable pattern, most commonly characterized by the Norwood Classification. Norwood Classification identifies men as being in 1 of 7 stages, depending on the hair loss they exhibit in each area of the scalp. In the first few stages, hair loss occurs along the frontal hairline and side temporal regions. As baldness progresses, men begin to lose hair at the top rear of the scalp, in a region of the head called the crown.

After studying nearly 37,000 men, the research team at the University of Tokyo found a convincing correlation between hair loss and heart health. Specifically, men who suffer with pattern baldness might be 50-60% more likely to develop a coronary heart condition compared to men who have their hair (i). The team of Japanese researchers leading the study made another significant discovery, however: The more prominent the hair loss, the greater the chance of developing a heart condition later in life.

The study produced the following results that illustrate how the risk of developing cardiovascular disease may increase as pattern baldness progresses (ii):

1. Men who experience hair loss at the crown of the head only may be up to 52% more likely to develop coronary artery disease.

2. Men who experience hair loss at both the crown of the head and the frontal hairline/ temporal region may be up t0 69% more likely to develop the condition.

Commenting on the results of the study, lead researcher Dr. Tomohide Yamada explains, “Cardiovascular risk factors should be assessed carefully in men with vertex baldness and they should be encouraged to improve their cardiovascular risk profile,” (iii).

The Hidden Link Between Heart Health and Hair Loss

In the wake of these findings, both health experts and men who suffer with pattern baldness are left to wonder just how hair loss and heart health are related. After all, the study conducted by Dr. Yamada’s team merely shows the existence of a correlation. Although the study was successful in showing that heart disease is more common in men with pattern baldness, it does not provide evidence that heart disease causes hair loss (or vice versa).

To explain the hidden link between heart health and hair loss, researchers offer two different explanations (iv):

 1. DHT Causes Both Hair Loss and Cardiovascular Disease

Some researchers believe that both hair and heart share a common enemy: DHT. A special form of synthesized testosterone, DHT is known to penetrate the hair follicles on the scalp and cause them to shrink. In some cases, pattern baldness occurs once the follicle becomes unable to support the natural growth cycle of hair. For these same men, increased levels of DHT may also harden artery walls, causing a corresponding increase in blood pressure.

2. Pattern Baldness is a Symptom of Heart Disease

Others believe that pattern baldness is simply a visible sign of heart disease. To understand why, researchers point to the way in which heart disease makes it more difficult for the heart to effectively pump oxygenated blood and nutrients throughout the body. This leads to poor circulation, with the body’s extremities receiving less blood than normal. In the scalp, a decrease in oxygen and nutrient delivery may make it increasingly difficult for follicles to support natural hair growth. As heart disease worsens, so too may the progression of hair loss.

Whether considering hair transplant surgery or simply concerned with overall health and well-being, men of all ages are wise to consult a physician as soon as visible signs of hair loss become noticeable. Early detection empowers patients not only to pursue more effective hair restoration procedures, but it may also provide a much needed warning that serious lifestyle changes are needed to prevent cardiovascular disease from becoming life threatening.

Sources:

(i) “Balding and Hair Loss Linked to Heart Disease in Men.” Fox News Latino. Accessed 21 April 2013.

(ii) “Thinning On Top? It Could be High Blood Pressure.” Daily Mail Online. Accessed 21 April 2013.

(iii) See above.

(iv) See above.

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15 Apr 2013

HairDX™: The Genetic Hair Loss Test

HairDX™- The Genetic Hair Loss TestLast month, our editors shared this video on the science of hair loss and balding. Produced by ASAPScience, the video provides a basic introduction to genetics, hair loss, and pattern baldness, all in less than 2 minutes.

For many, genetic hair loss may have a profoundly negative impact on overall quality of life. It can shatter one’s sense of self-confidence, undermining success in both personal and professional life.

The good news: Today, there is a minimally invasive test that can effectively predict pattern baldness in both men and women. The test is called HairDX™, and it’s available through qualified physicians and clinics only.

The better news: Early diagnosis is the key to effective hair loss treatment. For example, prescription hair loss medications are designed to prevent additional hair loss, and they do little to re-grow hair in bald areas. For patients interested in popular treatments like Rogaine® (minoxidil) and Propecia® (finasteride), this means usage should start long before hair loss symptoms become visible to preserve as much natural hair as possible. The benefits of genetic hair loss testing is not only for those who prefer non-surgical treatment, however.

Individuals who are interested in hair transplant surgery may also benefit from HairDX genetic testing. Understanding the risk of developing pattern baldness can help both patient and physician plan for surgical procedures in a way that is minimally disruptive to everyday life, while also designing the procedure to deliver a truly natural-looking end result.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About HairDX™ Testing

To learn more about the HairDX test for hair loss, readers are invited to review the following list of frequently asked questions (i):

1. What is HairDX?

The HairDX genetic hair loss test is designed to identify individuals who are predisposed to developing androgenetic alopecia, a certain type of pattern baldness that can cause hair loss in both men and women.

2. What is the benefit of HairDX testing?

The primary benefit of HairDX testing is that it may predict pattern baldness in men and women, before it occurs. Early diagnosis is critical when it comes to treating hair loss, as both surgical and non-surgical hair loss treatments can be more effective when started early.

3. Can women take a HairDX test?

Yes, both men and women who are concerned with the health and longevity of their hair can use the HairDX test.

4. How is the test administered?

HairDX is available through qualified physicians and clinics only. At the Hair Transplant Institute, HairDX testing is available to patients as part of our comprehensive hair loss evaluation. The test is administered via cheek swab, so patients need not worry about pain, discomfort, or inconvenience. Once collected, the sample is sent for laboratory analysis and results are confidentially returned to the physician’s office.

5. How may I schedule a test?

Our Institute is pleased to offer the HairDX test for Miami residents and out-of-state patients as well. For additional information on genetic hair loss tests, please call our Institute at 1-877-443-9070.

Sources:

(i) “Frequently Asked Questions.” HairDX website. Accessed 15 April 2013.

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8 Apr 2013

The Big Picture: What’s Really Causing Hair Loss?

The Big Picture- What’s Really Causing Hair LossWhen treating hair loss, understanding the root cause of the issue is the first step towards finding treatment. Getting to the root of the problem enables physicians to offer treatments that are both safe and effective. Sometimes, hair loss can be caused by environmental stress or other behavioral problems that the patient can learn to proactively manage. For this reason, understanding why hair loss occurs is empowering for the patient as well.

If you are experiencing hair loss symptoms, we invite you to explore the following resources on the Miami Hair Blog to learn more about your condition. Please note: These resources are not meant to provide specific medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations. All readers are urged to schedule an appointment with a licensed and experienced medical professional to properly diagnose their condition and find effective treatment.

Understanding Pattern Baldness

Sometimes, hair loss occurs in a somewhat recognizable and predictable pattern. Two common examples are receding hairlines and thin or bald areas at the rear of the scalp, at the crown.

Men who recognize these symptoms may learn more about the progression of their condition by referring to the Norwood Classification for male pattern baldness.

Women who recognize these symptoms may learn more by referring to the Ludwig Classification for female pattern baldness.

Stress Related Hair Loss

Stress may cause a change in the biochemistry of the hair follicle, according to reports from the American Hair Loss Association (i). This change can prematurely send hair into a resting phase, or Telogen phase. Hair may cease to grow entirely, depending on the severity and duration of the experienced stress, as well as the way in which the individual recovers from the incident. This type of hair loss is particularly common among women and may be heightened, in part, by hormonal fluctuations.

To learn more, visit our guide on Telogen Effluvium.

Prescription Medications and Hair Loss

Prescription medications may effectively treat a number of serious health conditions. Medicines can have side effects, however. Hair loss is a common issue for individuals who take a variety of medications, including oral contraceptives, thyroid prescriptions, and more.

To learn more, readers are invited to visit our guide, Can Prescription Medications Cause Hair Loss?.

Hair Loss and Teenagers

Though pattern baldness is typically associated with older gentleman, hair loss is also a common condition for many boys and girls in their teenage years of development. Teenagers are perhaps most susceptible to the cruel way in which hair loss can negatively affect self-esteem, confidence, and social life, making it vital for parents and teens to understand more about the most common reasons hair loss may occur.

Read more about the Top 7 Causes of Hair Loss in Teenagers.

Evaluations at the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami

Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment provide the best chance of restoring hair to its naturally full, resilient, and beautiful state. To learn more about a hair loss evaluation, schedule an appointment with the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. Our team represents South Florida’s finest hair transplant surgeons, registered nurses, and technicians, each of whom hold your pursuit of a fuller head of hair in the highest regard.

Readers may also call our Institute at 305.925.0222 to speak directly with a member of our team.

Sources:

(i) “Effluviums.” American Hair Loss Association..

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