Hair loss prevention is possible when certain factors are responsible for the loss of hair.  It is normal for people to shed approximately 100 of their 100,000 scalp hairs every day.  This hair loss is the product of the hair growth cycle and should not be a cause for concern.  When hair loss seems to exceed this amount, an individual may wish to speak with a health professional about their condition. 

Hair loss prevention is possible in certain cases, while not in others. Prevention involves adhering to a smart and balanced diet full of good nutrients and vitamins. Crash diets, poor nutrition, and imbalances in nutrient consumption (excessive vitamin A) can lead to hair loss. Also, prevention can involve adequate intake of protein, iron, and B vitamins, in particular. 

A healthy frame of mind is also necessary in preventing unnecessary hair loss. Stress can cause hair loss in addition to other unfavorable physical effects.  Physical stress, such as times following surgery, an injury, or an illness can also cause hair loss. Reducing physical and emotional stress may facilitate hair loss prevention.

Certain medications are also known to cause hair loss. Anti-depressants, anticoagulants, gout treatments, chemotherapy, and other drugs can cause increased hair loss. Avoiding these medications when possible may prevent hair loss. 

Exposure to harmful elements, such as heat, chlorine, salt water, the sun, color treatments, chemical processes, hot oil, and more also sabotage hair loss prevention. The hair is more vulnerable when wet, so it is important not to tug or pull hair too much at these times. Allowing hair to air dry, protecting it with healthy products, and avoiding tight hair designs and other physical stressors can work to facilitate hair loss prevention. 

In some cases, hair loss prevention is not possible.  Male- and female -pattern baldness are inherited hair loss conditions (androgenetic alopecia) for which there is no prevention or cure. Male baldness targets the front and top areas of the scalp while female patterned baldness thins the hair evenly.  Baldness is typically worse with an earlier onset of the condition. Two-thirds of all men and 20 percent of women will develop this condition. 

While hair loss prevention is not possible in these cases, there are treatments available which can slow or correct hair loss.  Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a treatment which is applied to the scalp to slow recent hair loss and promote new hair growth. Finasteride (Propecia) is an oral treatment, available only to men, which can help to preserve existing hair and achieve some degree of hair loss prevention.

There are also popular and permanent surgical hair loss treatments that can drastically reduce the appearance of baldness. As a result of medical advances and safe and effective results, these cosmetic procedures are rapidly gaining popularity.  If you would like to learn more about hair loss prevention, please contact us to speak with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon near you.