Hair loss or Baldness involves the loss of hair on the head. The most common form of baldness is a progressive hair thinning condition called androgenetic alopecia, commonly referred to as male pattern baldness (MPB) or female pattern baldness (FPB).
For many years, scientists thought that MPB was caused by the predominance of the male sex hormone, testosterone. While testosterone is at the core of the balding process, it is now known that Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) a metabolite of testosterone, is the primary agent responsible for premature hair loss.
Causes of Hair Loss
Testosterone converts to DHT via the enzyme Type II 5-alpha reductase which is held in a hair follicle’s oil glands. The level of DHT binding to the receptors in the scalp hair follicles is of major concern in terms of the underlying cause of hair loss. DHT reduces the growth phase of the hair follicle causing them to shrink. Simultaneously, the membrane in the scalp thickens, becoming inelastic and restricting blood circulation. Eventually, the follicle atrophies to a point where hair growth is no longer possible. The normal rest-grow cycle of the hair follicle is altered and follicles remain dormant for the majority of the time. As a result, hairs fall out at the same rate, but are not replaced. Eventually, all the hairs revert to the rest phase and a bald spot, or baldness results.
Other causes of hair loss include: Stress, Medications including some blood pressure, cholesterol, cancer, acne and birth control tablets; Hormone imbalances – low progesterone, low thyroid, high DHEA and testosterone; Fungal infections and Nutritional deficiencies such as Vit D and/or iron deficiencies.
HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS
Nutritional Recommendations for Hair Loss Available over the Counter
A range of supplements such as Saw Palmetto Standardized Extract, Biotin, Zinc, Vitamin D and Vitamin B5 may be beneficial along with Cysteine and Carnitine. For more detailed information on nutritional treatment of hair loss click here to register for a free online consultation.
A Triple action over the counter hair lotion is also available with an online consultation.
Prescription Range of Hair Loss Products
Our Laboratory also produces a prescription range of hair lotions.
For more detailed information including our comprehensive hair loss protocol along with prescribing information for your doctor contact us for details.
Want More Information?
For more specific information on treating hair loss you can access a free online consultation or alternatively speak to your doctor
Copyright © 2001 Michael Serafin
