Hair loss is a common concern we see many men and women for and can be very difficult to face. August is National Hair Loss Awareness month and we’re highlighting some important hair loss facts and myths to be aware of.
1) Beware of Marketing Gimmicks
With over 50% of men over the age of 50 and 40% of women over the age of 40 experiencing some degree of hair loss, it’s no wonder the hair loss industry is worth a giant $3.5 billion and growing. Unfortunately, most of the products sold on the market today over promise and under deliver.
When follicle are in the miniaturization phase where they are shrinking and producing thinner hairs, some products and medications can prevent further loss and stimulate that follicle to produce thicker hair. But where follicles have gone completely dormant causing complete baldness, there is no way to bring hair back in that area other than transplanting it from the back of the head.
2) Baldness Does Not Come From Your Mother’s Side
It’s a super common myth that baldness is inherited from your mother’s side of the family only. Whether or not you develop male or female pattern baldness is determined by a combination of genes from both sides of your family.
3) Finasteride Works
For those noticing signs of male pattern baldness, it’s best to start taking finasteride (1 mg per day) as soon as possible to prevent further loss. Finasteride works by blocking the male sex hormone (DHT) responsible for causing follicles to shrink and go completely dormant…leading to baldness. Starting sooner will help you hang on to the hair you currently have. It’s important to know there are potential side-effects, such as sexual dysfunction. It’s also important to know once stopped, you’ll likely lose the hair you would have lost during the time you were taking finasteride.
4) Minoxidil is important too
Rogaine (Minoxidil) is one product on the market that actually does work (at least for 30-50% of men and women), though don’t expect it to grow back a full head of hair. You can purchase the foam or lotion over the counter to apply morning and night. It stimulates the follicles to produce thicker hairs though scientists aren’t exactly sure how.
5) You can’t prevent hair loss on your own
Without the help of a specialist, there’s not much you are going to be able to do on your own. Many feel if they eat right, minimize stress, avoid wearing tight caps, and take natural supplements that they can avoid the process but will likely end up disappointment in the end.
The best preventative measure you can take involves meeting with a hair restoration specialist to discuss finasteride, Rogaine, and/or hair transplant surgery.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (801)776-2220 or contact us HERE.