We normally lose 50 to 100 hairs a day, but new ones emerge to replace the lost hairs so we don’t notice the lost hairs. When the number of hairs falling out increase, or the number of new hairs decrease, we notice hair loss. Alopecia normally affects only the hair and face; however, in rare cases it can affect the whole body. The immune system attacks the hair follicles causing inflammation and resulting hair loss. It isn’t known what triggers the attacks or what can stop them. Hair loss can be limited to small patches, or the entire scalp. There may be one episode with hair regrowth, or multiple episodes.
Androgenic alopecia occurs in older adults. Usually considered to be highly influenced by genetics, there can be additional factors. Known as male or female pattern baldness, the hair recedes and thins in the crown area. It can be triggered by the side effects of medicine to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart disease, gout, or high blood pressure. It can also be triggered by a stressful event or even hairstyles such as pigtails or cornrows that pull on the hair. Poor nutrition or sudden weight loss also affect hair loss.
The first step in trying to reduce hair loss is to change what you have the ability to change. Ask your physician if an alternate medicine can be effectively used without the hair loss side effect. Be gentle with your hair. Use detanglers, or place your hand above a tangle to avoid pulling on the root. Avoid hot oil treatments or permanent waves. Evaluate your diet to be sure you are getting enough protein, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Cooling caps can be worn by individuals going through chemotherapy.
Hair regrowth serums for hair, brows, and eyelashes can be applied daily. Some are very effective. However, these serums are not recommended for use during chemotherapy.
Nancy Pride owns Morgan Fitzgerald’s and Merle Norman located at 3800 South Texas Avenue, one mile north of University Drive. 979 268 0608 www.fitzyou.com