Hair loss is a growing problem today. It is partially evidenced by the number of men with male pattern baldness choosing to just shave their heads. Women too are experiencing similar issues with their hair, but more generalized.
Alopecia has become a generalized term for hair loss, but there is a difference. “Hair loss” is more of a general term that encompasses hair falling out or thinning for many reasons, usually encompassing the whole scalp, and has a greater chance of being temporary, except when aging. Alopecia, on the other hand, is more of a medical condition resulting in baldness in patches and is considered more likely to be permanent, although we have seen many that fill back in again.
I’m sure you are wondering what causes hair loss. There are many. Aside from genetics, which more determines male or female-pattern baldness, hormonal changes constitute a major issue, especially pregnancy, childbirth or menopause. Other hormonal issues include thyroid disease, adrenal insufficiency, androgen excess (PCOS, DHT, testosterone), estrogen or progesterone deficiency, insulin resistance, pituitary disorders, hormone replacement therapy, steroid use, growth hormone or melatonin imbalances (including taking them as a supplement), and others.
Hormones are only a piece of the puzzle. Stress is also a big culprit. Stress can lead to immune system suppression, inflammation, vasoconstriction (choking off blood supply to the roots), altered sebum production or hair pigmentation, changes in hair texture, increased breakage of hair, delayed hair growth, hormonal imbalances and decreased nutrient absorption.
Of course, nutrition is also key when trying to figure out and remedy hair loss. Pretty much the whole alphabet of vitamins are involved: Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, especially the B complex. The minerals include: Zinc, iron, copper, selenium, silicon, magnesium, and iodine. Two important nutrients are protein and essential fatty acids. Don’t forget these very important nutrients.
Another solution is acupuncture. Acupuncture helps with hair loss by improving blood circulation to the scalp, reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, improving digestion, reducing stress, stimulating the hair follicles, increasing energy, deepening sleep, regulating immune function, reducing scalp tension and much more.
Other causes of hair loss include certain medications, especially chemotherapy, radiation, severe burns, chemicals and several diseases that can cause permanent or semi-permanent hair loss.
Making sure your diet is great, with whole foods, minimally or non-processed, avoiding chemicals on the scalp as much as possible (see www.EWG.org for more information on the toxic content of hair and skin products), minimizing stress, improving circulation, balancing hormones and all the other things we talked about are important if you want to get your hair back. Nothing is a guarantee, but there may be more of a possibility of restoring your hair than you originally thought!
Want to hear more from Dr. Carling? Check out our podcast. Search for VitalHealth4You on your favorite podcast listening app or go to vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/
©2024 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L.Ac., Ph.D.
