To achieve Hair Growth, you need to understand Hair loss

It comes with no surprise why Hair growth is searched significantly more on Google (3x to be more precise) than the reasons for Hair loss. When one starts to lose their hair, it is a common practice to look for a Hair growth shampoo or conditioner and other products to bring back the dense hair they once had. However, a better understanding of ‘Why’ you lost your hair in the first place will aid you in choosing the hair products that best suits your needs.  

First of all, there can be a multitude of reasons that can cause hair loss in females and males. We will elaborate on the most common ones to help you better understand the context of hair loss. 

     1. Most common cause of Hair Loss: DHT Hormone (Dihydrotestosterone) 

This hormone is normally present in every Human body and it is the main reason for Hair loss. You may wonder, if Testosterone is the reason, then why do older men and women lose their hair? Well it’s not the presence of Testosterone alone but the conversion to DHT and its accumulation in the scalp. It might be bewildering to some that Testosterone is the main cause of facial and other hair growth when you reach puberty so why does it cause hair loss from the scalp (the only place we don’t want to lose) 

A study conducted showed a possible cause, namely the Gravity theory, suggests it is the lack of subcutaneous fat in the long run, accumulation of DHT in the scalp and age contributes to the hair follicles becoming thin.  

There are 2 scientifically agreed upon medicine that helps in preventing the breakdown of Testosterone to DHT which are Minoxidil and Finasteride. 

Although they have showed positive results, it is no surprise they are not commonly used in a tablet form. A tablet of Minoxidil or Finasteride will act on your entire body effecting the natural body processes hence it is a more attractive option to look for topical products such as Hair growth shampoos or supplements. Hence FT Clinics has developed hair lotions that only work on your scalp and there is minimal absorption in the body.

      2.  Hair loss due to lack of Vitamins 

Vitamin A 

It is well known that high amounts of Vitamin A in your body can lead to hair loss. This is justified by a recent study conducted in December 2018 which showed large amounts of Vitamin A may result in hair loss. However, it should not be misunderstood since Vitamin A is an essential component of the body and you need it for immunity and vision. Some products that contain large amount of Vitamin A include: 

1. Beef Liver 
2. Sheep Liver 
3. Liver Sausage 
4. Cod Liver oil 

Iron deficiency: 

Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss in women. Female hair loss may be associated to other factors such as DHT however, a study has suggested a link common between iron levels and female hair loss.  

Although the direct relation or cause on the hair cycle is yet to be established, it is highly recommended to ensure optimal iron levels if you happen to be experiencing Hair loss. 

Some common Iron supplements include: 

1. Spinach 
2. Red meat 
3. Lentils 
4. Iron Supplements 

It will be great to incorporate these foods as hair growth supplements in your diet however it is important to note that Vitamin C helps in iron absorption. So, oranges or simple Vitamin C tablets will boost your iron levels and prevent hair from falling. 

Vitamin D 

An interesting research showed an indirect co-relation between hair loss and lack of Vitamin D. The study showed that individuals who happened to be resistant to Vitamin D also had sparse body hair with little or no hair on the scalp. 

      3. Stress and Hormones 

The relation between Hair loss and stress can be complicated and unclear. Some studies have suggested a link between lowering of immune system and production of hair follicle attacking hormones.  

Simple exercises such as walking and activities with your loved ones can help you reduce your stress after a busy schedule.  

It is common to see Hair loss in women after they give birth or experience menopause. The main reason is the lack of estrogen that the body produces which results in Hair thinning. Many health care professionals will advise against taking Hormone replacement therapy due to the detrimental effects on the body, but rather prefer topical treatments such as Shampoo or hair growth lotion. 

      4. Medicines: 

Warfarin or other blood thinning medicines may prevent essential nutrients from reaching the hair follicles. If you are taking these medicines, please refer to your healthcare professional for advice. 

Another common medicine, which may not surprise us, are the anabolic steroids. Men or Women who happen to use these steroids for muscle growth may need to negotiate their hair growth since the Testosterone levels will increase in the body and scalp. 

Other medicines which particularly effect the hormones of your body may result in hair loss such as Contraception pills, Thyroid medicines and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). 

However, we strongly advise you to consult your Doctor before you stop taking these medicines. 

      5. Common Hair styling and care 

There are many hair styling and trendy features that may damage your hair. It might well be a lack of good diet, stress etcetera the inherent cause of hair loss, however, hair styling and lack of care may prove to be detrimental to your already thinning hair. 

Common hair products such as bleaching and coloring may weaken your hair and become extra sensitive to fall when any strain is applied. Furthermore, blow drying and heated flat irons will dehydrate your hair resulting in brittle and thin hair. Minimal use of these products is advisable. 

Moreover, certain hair styles which may pull or tighten your hair will cause breakage. Particularly when your hair is wet so extra precaution is necessary.  

I hope this blog clarifies why you might be experiencing hair loss and enable to you to take the necessary steps to help maintain your hair. If you do have any queries about your hair, feel free to contact us on info@ftclinics.com.au and we will get back to you as soon as possible.