Saturday, February 7, 2009

Hair Loss & Thinning Hair Information

By Jennifer Summers

A concern not only experienced by men but by a growing number of women is Alopecia, or the excessive and abnormal loss of healthy hair. Disturbing situations and genetics can be the cause of hair thinning and loss and also by hormonal ups and downs, too much physical force or lack of good nutrition. An important first step is discussing hair loss with your doctor. There is a selection of treatments on offer these days that make hair loss or thinning hair more bearable. For thousands of people globally, everyday is a "bad hair" day because of the dilemma of thinning hair or baldness. These factors affect both men and women, hair thinning and loss usually occurs for:

Men The most well-known pattern of hair loss is a thinning crown or receding hair line. Due to the presence of a derivative or by-product of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) hair loss happens. This hormone can contract the hair follicles and has a larger effect in the mid-anterior scalp and temples. Some categories of male hair loss are: Chronic Diffuse Alopecia - can happen because of nutritional, metabolic or endocrine matters. Acute diffuse alopecia - occurs from physical or psychological reasons such as hormones, nutritional shortages or medications. Androgenetic Alopecia - occurs because of genetic sensitivity to male hormones. This hardly ever affects women.

Women Anagen effluvium - due to chemotherapy this may occur. The matrix of the hair becomes damaged and, as a consequence, the hair shaft narrows, eventually breaking. Traction alopecia - caused by rigorous hairstyles, ie: ponytails that are too tight, frequent use of extensions, braiding or cornrows. These methods pull at hair over time but loss can be prevented if diagnosed and treated early enough. The majority of cases of hair thinning and loss result from hormonal fluctuations, ie: during pregnancy, childbirth or use of some types of birth control.

Men and women can minimize or even prevent hair thinning or loss, if detected early enough, by using several over-the-counter treatments such as: Daily vitamin supplement - look for ones labelled especially for hair and/or nails and are fortified with Vitamin B3 (niacin), this protects the hair shaft, and antioxidants, to ward off damage from free radicals. A shampoo that states "revitalizing/fortifying/energizing" - this will nourish and protect existing hair while removing oils that can block the follicles and prevent re-growth. A weekly use, leave-in scalp treatment made with essential oils - oils such as lavender and orange will relax and unblock hair follicles to promote growth, regulate oil production and maintain cell repair. As with any treatment, results will vary and may to need to be continued on a constant basis. Also, allow approximately 6-8 weeks before seeing results.

Disguising hair loss techniques: Maybe it's time to consider some techniques to disguise your hair loss if you are dissatisfied with your thinning hair. Whether you're male or female losing hair due to genetics, stress, medication or a medical circumstance you can use these methods to help you cope. Using a Thickening Hair Shampoo or Conditioner Use a thickening hair shampoo and conditioner intended to camouflage hair loss by making the hair seem to be thicker. Brush your hair lightly after you have shampooed and conditioned to prevent losing even more hair, and let your hair dry completely before you comb or brush it.

Styling Techniques If your hair is not as thick as it once was, there are a number of hair styling methods and hair styling products that can be employed to keep your hair looking its best at any age. Try to avoid hair gels as they only matte your hair and highlight your hair loss. Instead use hair texturizing creams and lotions that give you volume and fullness. Another good option is to use a leave-in hair conditioner that can make your hair emerge more textured and fuller. For a fuller look try blow drying your hair - For hair that is getting thin on top, try blow drying after you have washed and conditioned, then comb your hair in front directly back. Use mousse or a light hair spray to maintain the style. The blow drying will stop your hair from matting together and looking thinner.

Hair extensions are a quick and simple method Use a professional hair salon to get natural human hair added to your hair. This may last you for several weeks or several months. Hair extensions are used for women and men, with thick long hair to camouflage the fact that they are losing hair, and are an easy way to change your look.

Blow-dry your Hair Consider blow drying if your hair is thinning on top to give it added texture and body and to give your head more coverage. Brush it into a quiff on top of your head by brushing it from the forehead up. Maintain the style with a little hairspray. If your hair is thinning throughout, this is a good way to make your hair look fuller. Guys -Get a Buzz Cut Sports stars, actors, and businessmen all use the buzz cut as a way to hide the fact that they are losing hair. It is a popular, classy style that is easy to maintain. Buy yourself a wet-dry electric razor to groom your scalp daily and remove the hairs you have left for a clean look. If you're stressed about losing your hair or if your hair is starting to thin, visit your barber or hairdresser and ask for advice on a new hairstyle. There are plenty of styles to select that will allow you to look your very best. - 17943

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