According to Harvard Health, we lose about 50 to 100 scalp hairs daily. Does more than that fall out of your head each day? You may need to visit a hair loss specialist in Lexington, KY.
Seeking hair restoration services can help you maintain your gorgeous locks. A Lexington, KY dermatologist can determine the underlying problem. They’ll develop a customized hair loss treatment based on your needs.
Not sure if it’s time to start consulting a hair specialist? Read on to learn more about your hair health!
Natural Hair Loss
There are three phases of the hair growth cycle: anagen, catagen, and telogen.
The anagen phase lasts between three to 10 years. Rapid cell division occurs during this period. New hair will also appear on your scalp.
The catagen phase lasts between two and three weeks. During this time, cell division ceases. Pigment production halts.
The final stage is known as the resting phase. We usually experience increased shedding from the scalp during this phase.
About 90% of scalp hair grows continually (Hopkins Medicine). Each hair grows for about two to six years. At the end of a two- to three-month resting phase, you may shed these strands.
However, the rate of your hair growth will slow as you age. Hair loss can be caused by a combination of:
- Aging
- Hormone changes
- Injury
- Burns
- Protein or iron deficiency
- Rapid weight loss
- Untreated scalp ringworm
- Family history of baldness
- Illness
- Certain autoimmune diseases
- Hair pulling (trichotillomania)
- Certain cancer treatments
- Vitamin A excess
Medications that may produce hair loss as a side effect include high blood pressure medication and antidepressants. Increased stress and anxiety levels may impact your hair health. Lifestyle choices (diet, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco) can also lead to hair loss.
Hair loss is not caused by dandruff, excessive hat-wearing, or poor circulation to the scalp. The earlier hair loss starts, the more severe your baldness may become.
Excessive Hair Loss
Signs of excessive hair loss may include:
- Receding hairline that becomes more visible
- Thinner ponytail
- Widening part
- Gradual thinning of hair
- Bald spot
These signs may be subtle at first. You may experience hair loss for months or years before they become noticeable.
When hair loss is sudden, you may notice clumps of hair falling out when you brush your hair. A bald spot may appear within one or two days. In some cases, all (or most of) the hair on your head may fall out.
For some patients, less hair is the only sign of hair loss. However, other symptoms and signs may include:
- Burning or stinging before hair loss
- Intense itching or tenderness
- Scaly bald patches
- Sores or blisters that open and ooze pus
- Redness, swelling, or sores
- Scaly patches or psoriasis
These symptoms indicate that inflammation or an infection is contributing to your hair loss. Leaving inflammation untreated could lead to permanent hair loss.
These symptoms will vary based on what’s causing your hair loss. If you experience these symptoms, visit your Lexington, KY dermatologist right away. They can determine what’s causing your hair loss to determine the best course of treatment.
When to See a Lexington, KY Dermatologist
You should see a hair loss specialist in Lexington, KY if you experience:
- Sudden or excessive hair loss
- Accompanying symptoms (see above)
- Unusual patterns of hair loss
- An impact on your emotional well-being
Let them know if over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked. They’ll determine what type of hair loss you’re experiencing. Here’s a breakdown of each type.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is also called male/female pattern baldness. One of the main symptoms is a receding hairline. You may notice the formation of a bald spot on the top of the crown of your head.
Male androgenetic alopecia (MAA) is the most common reason for hair loss in men. It affects 30 to 50% of men by age 50 (National Library of Medicine).
Treatment options include finasteride and minoxidil, which can slow hair loss.
Maturing/Receding Hairlines
Hair loss is a natural part of the aging process. Aging could lead to a maturing hairline.
No underlying health condition causes this type of hair loss. It occurs gradually compared to other cases. If you notice significant hair thinning at the top of your head, consult your dermatologist.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. The primary symptom is a sudden, severe loss of hair.
There are currently no cures for this condition. However, early intervention can suppress the immune system and encourage hair growth over time.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium occurs when your hair follicles fail to enter the growth cycle after rest. Triggers can include:
- A prolonged fever
- The use of certain medications
- After-effects of surgery
- Prolonged stress
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Thyroid imbalances
Treatments can vary. For example, if vitamin D deficiency is causing your telogen effluvium, you may need to add more vitamin D to your diet.
Hair Shaft Abnormalities
This abnormality occurs when there’s damage to a hair strand (instead of the follicle). Symptoms include changes to your hair:
- Color
- Density
- Length
- Structure
Treatment will vary based on what’s causing the abnormality.
Hair Loss Treatment Options
Your dermatologist will recommend different hair restoration services based on the underlying cause of your hair loss. Treatments may include:
- Supplements (like collagen)
- Oral medication (like finasteride)
- Minoxidil topical cream
- Cosmetic treatments
Cosmetic treatments can include platelet-rich plasma injections or a hair transplant. Choose a dermatologist who prioritizes offering a personalized approach to patient care. They’ll develop a treatment plan that meets your distinct needs.
Hair Loss Prevention Tips
To avoid hair loss, consider:
- Addressing the underlying condition
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating a whole-food diet
- Avoiding processed food
Visit Your Hair Loss Specialist in Lexington, KY
Your hair will continue to fall out if you delay seeking hair loss treatment. Instead, visit your local hair loss specialist in Lexington, KY. They’ll develop a personalized treatment plan based on your distinct needs.
Look no further than Central Kentucky Dermatology. We’re committed to a personalized approach to patient-centered care. Our procedures are performed in a relaxing setting to ensure patients receive the best results.
We’re on the Best Doctors of America and America’s Top Dermatologists lists. Contact us now to schedule a consultation to look and feel your best self!