Lasers are one of the greatest innovations in the medical science. They are so dynamic and versatile to use for corrective eye procedures, accurate incision, and skin rejuvenation. Lasers are also used for competing functions- some wavelengths for hair growth and others to remove it. It may sound strange, but laser removal therapy and laser hair growth procedure both use laser light for treatment. So, what are the ways they use to achieve a different result or almost an opposite result?

Let’s identify the difference between them!

Laser Hair Removable

The technical term used for laser hair removable is selective photothermal lysis, in short SPTL. The process involves using of mild radiation via high-heat lasers. The purpose is to damage hair follicles enough to significantly lower down the growth of hair. It ceases growth of follicles for a long time.

The SPTL technique uses pulses of light generated by diodes and the wavelength is typically in the range of 694 nm to 1,000 nm. According to experts, the treatment works great on people who have both fair skin and dark hair because the procedure targets the pigment, melanin which plays a significant role in giving color to human hair. Although new hairs may still grow, they are finer and lighter in color than before.

The treatment is available in many salons. Consider undergoing the therapy under experts because it has some side effects like blisters, inflammation, irritation, swelling, redness etc.

Laser Hair Growth

The therapy uses “cold” or non-ablative lasers, known as low-level light therapy. It is best known as LLLT. The laser hair therapy is based on photochemistry (chemical effects of light) to stimulate hair cells in the follicle. It helps in increasing blood flow in the scalp and stimulates metabolism in catagen follicles, resulting in the production of anagen hair.

The low-level laser is radiated on the balding areas. Light of different wavelengths is absorbed by the outer dermis which accelerates chemical reactions within the cells. The photobiomodulation divides the follicle, thus resulting in long and strong hair growth. Unlike SPTL for hair removable, LLLT for hair growth has no adverse side effects. It is safe to use.

The treatment for low-level laser hair therapy lasts 6-12 months with around 45 minutes a session which is twice in a week at least. It also involves evaluation to monitor the progress.

Once the growth rate is improved, the clinic recommends a hair growth device to rip the maximum benefits of LLLT. People who find hard to take out some time from their busy schedules to visit the clinic periodically can use the device. It is safe to use because LLLT has no side effect.

On the contrary, the hair removable technique can’t be practiced at home because the result is not so effective. Only a skilled and trained laser removal technician adds efficacy to the procedure.

About Hair Again

Hair Again is offering low-level laser hair therapy in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Visalia, Modesto and Merced. The program for this treatment involves 6-12 months with a session of 45 minutes, twice a week. The subject is called up for evaluation from time to time to monitor the progress. The 6-month of LLLT treatment is affordable. The growth improvement is depended on person to person. Some see improvement in just 10 weeks and some in 15 weeks or more. To get the best result, Hair Again guides you at every step. The treatment plan involves guidance for what to eat and what to apply on scalp. Contact Hair Again for more discussion on LLLT.

Visit www.fresnohair.com/laser-treatment.html  or call on ​(559) 225-4754to know more about our laser hair replacement therapy.

We know that androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss, accounting for 95% of hair loss in men and women. But there are a variety of other causes for hair loss in men and women, a significant number of people experience hair loss related to traumatic events, lifestyle choices, and illnesses––this type of hair loss can be prevented and treated differently than hereditary hair loss.

Disease and Illness
Hereditary and non-hereditary diseases can cause hair loss in both men and women. Diseases like diabetes, cancer, lupus and thyroid disorders can each cause significant loss of hair. Many people have experienced sudden and large amounts of hair loss 3 to 4 months after an illness or a major surgery. Fortunately, this hair loss is usually temporary, and is related to the stress of the illness.
 
Poor nutrition
Researchers have found that some hair loss may be due to a deficiency of protein or iron in your diet. Protein and iron are both vital for maintaining hair health. Be sure to eat a balanced diet and avoid nutrient deficiencies to ensure healthy hair growth.
 
Medication
Drugs designed to treat gout, arthritis, acne, depression, heart problems and blood pressure often cause hair loss in some people. It all depends on the way the drug interacts with your unique body chemistry.
Medications can lead to two types of hair loss: Telogen effluvium and Anagen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is the most common form of drug-induced hair loss. It usually appears within 2 to 4 months after taking the drug.
Anagen effluvium is hair loss that occurs during the Anagen phase of the hair cycle, when the hairs are actively growing. It prevents the matrix cells, which produce new hairs, from dividing normally. This type of hair loss usually occurs within a few days to weeks after taking the medication. It's most common in people who are taking chemotherapy drug.
 
Childbirth/ Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy and childbirth are traumatic events for the body. Like severe illness and surgery, childbirth alters regular chemical processes in the body. If you experience hair loss right before or after childbirth, your hair will likely return to normal growth patterns after your body completely recovers.  Having an overactive or under active thyroid gland may cause your hair to fall out as well. Treating the thyroid will usually help the loss of hair. Hormones can also cause hair loss if male hormones (androgens), or female hormones (estrogens), are out of balance. However, if the hormone imbalance is corrected, the hair loss should stop.
 
Aging
Did you know that 40% of men have noticeable hair loss by age 35, and 65% by age 60?
Aging is one of the factors necessary for androgenetic alopecia to occur, along with a genetic predisposition and the presence of hair loss-inducing hormones. Hair loss is dependent on exposing the vulnerable hair follicles to the proper hormones over time
 
Improper Hair Care
This could be due to our daily hair care methods, aggressive brushing, improper styling leading to hair suffocation, usage of heat devices and environmental conditions. You might use these techniques to improve your hair style and beauty, but some of them can be unhealthy for hair. As excessive styling that pulls the hair too tightly may also lead to a type of hair loss, called "traction alopecia." As long as this pulling is stopped before the scalp scars, the hair will grow back normally. But be warned, scarring can cause permanent hair loss.
 
Stress
 It should be noted that stress-induced hair loss is not a cause of male-pattern baldness. Rather, this type of balding is known as "Telogen effluvium." Telogen effluvium is caused when the body senses a problem and diverts its energies there. This results in hair being shed.
Stress affects the hair of men and women differently. It's been found that women's hair is more sensitive to stress' effects than men's hair. One possibility is that stress (along with DHT and other things) may facilitate hair loss for women who are genetically predisposed towards it
 
In Conclusion
The good news is all these causes are reversible with proper care and maintenance. When you come in and speak with our specialist we’ll be able to guide you in right direction and you’ll leave here knowing the potential for returning your hair to the look it was meant to have. 

The Australian manufacturers are not only TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia) approved but also FDA and GMP certified. All products endure strict testing and quality control to secure the finished product is of the highest of standards.

Hair loss is not a disease or sickness and cannot be cured with a few days of medication. We need to provide external stimulation and support with nutrition required for hair to respond positively. Just like washing your face and applying moisturizer, the concept is CARE not CURE.

All growing cells require toxin free environments. Each hair follicle demands cell nutrition to ensure growth and strength. Hair Fact has been formulated specifically for the gender and targets the hair and scalp to ensure the correct levels of nutrients are prescribed.

This is a holistic approach which utilizes Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids,  Antioxidants  and  Herbal Combinations to strengthen the hair roots and promote hair growth.

The Hair Fact supplement program provides 6 different oral supplements in a Cyclical Method, where each is given twice a week.

Grace Sprirulux 
​Spirulina based multi vitamin and mineral complex

• Spirulina

Spirulina contains amino acids, essential fatty acids, Vitamin A and beta-carotene, all of which are great for hair. It acts as an alternative medicine to deter further loss of hair and facilitate hair renewal. Also acts as an antioxidant compound and taking it for 4 weeks makes your hair completely dandruff-free, glossy and stronger.​

Grace Cal D3
Calcium combined with Grape Seed and Garlic

• Calcium

Calcium helps with the secretion of hormones and enzymes. Hormones such as androgens stimulate hair growth; enzymes such as biotin promote cell growth and strengthen healthy growing hair.

• Garlic

The sulfur and selenium contained within garlic it can not only help to replenish lost hair, but can strengthen existing hair as well. The vitamins and minerals that each clove of garlic is imbued with can also naturally condition your hair while adding strength.

• Grape Seed

The extract contains Vitamin E, extensive proteins, minerals, and the linoleic acid. The extract lowers the amount of DHT in the hair follicles, meaning that it will stimulate the follicles so they are healthy, allowing new, healthy hair to grow quickly. The extract can help improve your cardiovascular system, increasing blood circulation resulting in plenty of oxygen and nutrition, leading to healthy hair growth.

Grace Tricho Shield
Pumpkin Seed Oil and Japanese Giant Knotweed
Antioxidant Formulation

• Cucurbita pepo (Pumpkin) seed oil

Pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo) oil is a rich source of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, minerals, and more. Studies have shown that taking a PSO supplement for 24 weeks has a positive anabolic effect on hair growth in patients with mild to moderate AGA.

• Fallopia japonica (Japanese Giant Knotweed)

The root of F. japonica is antibacterial, antiviral, antischistosomal, antispriochetal, antifungal, immunostimulant, immunomodulant, anti-inflammatory, angiogensismodulator, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) relaxant, central nervous system protectant and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiathersclerotic, antihyperlipidemic, antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic, angiogenesis modulator, antineoplastic, vasodilator, antiasthmatic, inhibits platelet aggregation, inhibits eicosanoid synthesis, antithrombotic, tyrosine kinase inhibitor, oncogene inhibitor, antipyretic, cardioprotective, analgesic, antiulcer (slightly reduces stomach acid and protects against stress ulcers), hemostatic, astringent. Overall Antioxidant encourages hair regrowth.

Grace Tricho Ferum
Iron Complex

• Ferrous Bisglycinate

Low iron levels lead to hair thinning and hair loss problems —in fact, it’s one of the most common problems in men and women with hair loss. Ferrous Bisglycinate is low constipating and in a clinical trial, 25mg of Ferrous Bisglycinate was as effective as Ferrous Sulfate 50mg.

• Bacopamonnieri (Brahmi) herb

Brahmi is a valuable ayurvedic herb. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidant properties, it helps to strengthen the hair follicles, reduce hair fall, thicker hair and relief from itchy scalps. Plus, Brahmi also calms your mind and helps you sleep better.

Grace Alexa
Multivitamin and mineral complex combined with
Omega-3 Fish Oil, Black Cohosh and Asparagus

• Vitamin A

It’s necessary for proper cell growth. It helps to produce sebum on the scalp preventing hair from drying out and breaking. It’s important to note that it is possible to get too much Vitamin A, which is counterproductive to hair growth.

• Black Cohosh

It assists in regulating estrogen hormone levels. Estrogen reduces body hair and promotes growth of hair on the head. It does this by blocking levels of DHT from the male hormone, testosterone. DHT from testosterone is one of the main reasons that hair follicles stop producing hair.

• Asparagus

Rich in protein, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and folic acid. It also contains fiber and iron. It stimulates hair production and is also a good source of silicon for healthy hair.

• Omega 3 Fish Oil

The deficiency of EPA and DHA in diet contributes to skin conditions such as dandruff, thinning hair, eczema and psoriasis, as well as age spots and sun spots. The reason fish oil leads to healthier skin is because it reduces inflammation. Without the essential fatty acids, too much moisture leaves the skin.

Grace Tricho Protein
​Amino Acid Complex

• Amino Acid

There are four key amino acids necessary to produce keratin: cysteine, lysine, arginine and methionine. Collagen production relies on access to the amino acids lysine, methionine, glycine and proline. Of these amino acids, methionine and lysine are classed as essential, meaning that they must be sourced from our diet. The other important amino acids for healthy hair growth can be synthesized by the body, although they may be in low concentrations if nutrition is poor.
Through boosting the availability of key amino acids involved in the production of keratin and collagen, it’s possible to combat hair loss and stimulate new hair growth.

• Tyrosine

Another non-essential amino acid that the body naturally produces, it creates melanin, which is the pigment that colors our hair and skin. It’s also known to contribute to reduction in stress hormone levels in the body. Since stress is a strong factor in hair loss, tyrosine can slow alopecia too by reducing stress.

• Cysteine

Approximately a quarter of keratin is made from this amino acid. Several studies have confirmed that cysteine supplementation can reduce the symptoms of androgenic alopecia. Cysteine assists with the protection of hair follicles from oxidative stress.

• Lysine

This essential amino acid helps to stimulate collagen and is important for repairing damaged hair. Hair follicles also require lysine to properly function. Research has shown that hair loss can be reduced with lysine supplementation.

• Glycine

One of the smallest and common amino acids, glycine is very important for the digestive and central nervous systems. Importantly, it also helps to produce collagen.

• Proline

This non-essential amino acid helps to produce collagen and cartilage, as well as maintaining muscle tissues.

​Grace Tricho Gold 
Multivitamin and mineral complex combined with essential herbs

• Vitamin A

Vitamin A is necessary for proper cell growth. It helps to produce sebum on the scalp preventing hair from drying out and breaking. It is important to note that there is a possibility to acquire too much Vitamin A, which can be counterproductive to hair growth.

• Panay Ginseng Root

Based on one clinical study, ginseng and hair growth may in fact be linked, helping to prevent hair loss and regrow hair in people with alopecia areata. Professor Sang-Wook Son of Korea University College of Medicine followed 131 people with alopecia areata for 12 weeks. One of two groups was given corticosteroids as treatment, since alopecia has autoimmune etiology, and the other group was given cortiocosteroids plus ginseng. When researchers compared the effects of corticosteroids on hair growth versus Korean red ginseng, they found promising results.

• Tagetes Erects (Marigold) flower extract

Marigold is often used to hydrate the scalp and get rid of dandruff. Dandruff is one of the major causes of hair loss, another cause is damaged scalp. This oil can heal both these conditions, giving your hair a chance to grow stronger. Its regenerative properties help the hair follicles grow abundantly, giving you a thicker mane.

• Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is believed to increase blood flow to the brain and is a popular herb for hair loss. It is thought to generate hair growth by providing more nutrients to the hair follicles.
 
Grace Cal D3
Calcium combined with Grape Seed and Garlic

• Calcium

Calcium helps with the secretion of hormones and enzymes. Hormones such as androgens stimulate hair growth; enzymes such as biotin promote cell growth and strengthen healthy growing hair.

• Garlic

The sulfur and selenium contained within garlic it can not only help to replenish lost hair, but can strengthen existing hair as well. The vitamins and minerals that each clove of garlic is imbued with can also naturally condition your hair while adding strength.

• Grape Seed

The extract contains Vitamin E, extensive proteins, minerals, and the linoleic acid. The extract lowers the amount of DHT in the hair follicles, meaning that it will stimulate the follicles so they are healthy, allowing new, healthy hair to grow quickly. The extract can help improve your cardiovascular system, increasing blood circulation resulting in plenty of oxygen and nutrition, leading to healthy hair growth.
 
Grace Tricho Flax 
Cod Liver and Evening Primrose Oil

• Cod Liver Oil

Due to the high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A and Vitamin D found in the cod liver oil, it minimizes hair fall significantly. Consuming cod liver oil is one best way to keep our hair shiny and healthy. All these three nutrients nourish the hair follicles from within resulting in healthy hair that is less prone to breakage and hair fall.

• Evening Primrose Oil

Men struggle with hair loss and hormones can play a significant role - including in the hair pattern found on your head, as well as the rest of your body. The essential omega-6 fatty acid GLA, comes from consuming capsules of evening primrose oil and can be highly effective in the fight against hair loss. 
 
Grace Tricho Ferum
Iron Complex

• Ferrous Bisglycinate

Low iron levels lead to hair thinning and hair loss problems —in fact, it’s one of the most common problems in men and women with hair loss. Ferrous Bisglycinate is low constipating and in a clinical trial, 25mg of Ferrous Bisglycinate was as effective as Ferrous Sulfate 50mg.

• Bacopamonnieri (Brahmi) herb

Brahmi is a valuable ayurvedic herb. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidant properties, it helps to strengthen the hair follicles, reduce hair fall, thicker hair and relief from itchy scalps. Plus, Brahmi also calms your mind and helps you sleep better.
 
Grace Q10S
CoEnzyme Q10 Complex

• CoEnzyme Q10

Co-Q10 is provided to help boost cellular functions. The aging process and disease are thought to deplete Q10 levels, which is why supplements of this kind become useful.

• Dimethyl sulfone (MSM)

Keratin depends on access to steady, available sulfur in the body. Keratin is a fibrous protein that provides the base building blocks and structure for hair, skin and nails. Keratin is actually a compound and depends on adequate Organic Sulfur to create strong di-sulfide bonds that makes stronger keratin compounds and fibres.

• Serenoa repens (Saw Palmefto)

It was discovered that it may stop the testosterone in the body combining with an enzyme called type 11 alpha reductase. When testosterone and type 11 alpha reductase get together, they form something called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT contributes to both male and female pattern baldness because it binds to scalp follicle receptors, causing them to shrink. By blocking the formation of DHT, Saw Palmetto is believed to act in a similar way to the medication finasteride. 
 
Grace Tricho Protein
Amino Acid Complex

• Amino Acid

There are four key amino acids necessary to produce keratin: cysteine, lysine, arginine and methionine. Collagen production relies on access to the amino acids lysine, methionine, glycine and proline. Of these amino acids, methionine and lysine are classed as essential, meaning that they must be sourced from our diet. The other important amino acids for healthy hair growth can be synthesized by the body, although they may be in low concentrations if nutrition is poor.
Through boosting the availability of key amino acids involved in the production of keratin and collagen, it’s possible to combat hair loss and stimulate new hair growth.

• Tyrosine

Another non-essential amino acid that the body naturally produces, it creates melanin, which is the pigment that colors our hair and skin. It’s also known to contribute to reduction in stress hormone levels in the body. Since stress is a strong factor in hair loss, tyrosine can slow alopecia too by reducing stress.

• Cysteine

Approximately a quarter of keratin is made from this amino acid. Several studies have confirmed that cysteine supplementation can reduce the symptoms of androgenic alopecia. Cysteine assists with the protection of hair follicles from oxidative stress.

• Lysine

This essential amino acid helps to stimulate collagen and is important for repairing damaged hair. Hair follicles also require lysine to properly function. Research has shown that hair loss can be reduced with lysine supplementation.

• Glycine

One of the smallest and common amino acids, glycine is very important for the digestive and central nervous systems. Importantly, it also helps to produce collagen.

• Proline

This non-essential amino acid helps to produce collagen and cartilage, as well as maintaining muscle tissues.
 
Warning:
This product contains 2.7 mg of potassium - consult your healthcare practitioner if you have kidney disease or are taking heart or blood pressure medicines. This product contains selenium which is toxic in high doses - adults should not exceed a daily dose of 150µg of selenium from dietary supplements. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

​The longest phase of the growth process, this stage typically lasts between two to six years. The follicle is active and producing new cells resulting in hair growth at a rate of approximately ¼ of an inch per month. Each follicle’s Anagen phase is on its own clock. Since the period of active growth varies from person to person, individuals with a long Anagen phase can grow their hair much longer than those with shorter Anagen cycles.

This transition cycle marks the end of active growth, preparing the follicle to separate from the hair. The hair bulb at the bottom of the follicle detaches from the blood supply and moves upwards. The follicle itself shrinks rapidly to encourage this upward push. The dermal papilla detaches from the follicle’s base, but does not travel up. Catagen is the shortest phase of the growth cycle, lasting only about two to four weeks.​

​The follicle rests and prepares for another round of the Anagen period. This dormant phase typically lasts between three to five months. The hair is matured and no longer has access to the blood supply because there is no longer a need to grow. Towards the end of this phase, a new hair follicle begins to form over top of the old, shrunken one.

PRP and Laser completed simultaneously appear as the best treatment for hair loss. Our Platelet-Rich-Plasma and Laser Therapy is beneficial for two types of candidates: those who are diagnosed with Alopecia Areata on small areas and those who have weak quality of hair growth on their scalp. The non-surgical technique provides the optimum results to these candidates.
Did you know there are some important tips to acknowledge in order of getting the most out of your PRP? The therapy works great on the candidates who follow all the precautions which is advised before and after the therapy.

Shampoo
Use a top quality clarifying/cleansing shampoo and conditioner that nourishes your scalp and hair. Apply a nickel sized amount of shampoo and gently massage your hair. Rinse with lukewarm water so that skin pores will open.  

 Aloe Vera Gel
After shampooing your hair, apply the gel. The Aloe Vera plant has medicinal properties; it has been used for centuries to improve the health of the skin since it’s packed with all essential vitamins and nutrients that promote healthy skin cells.
Therefore, Aloe Vera gel is recommended to PRP candidates.

Diet & Nutrition
PRP experts guide you for special nutrition for the day prior and the day of the treatment. 
3 cups of fruit: Berries, Banana, Pineapple, Mango & Citrus
5 cups of vegetables: spinach, carrot, sweet potato, kale, broccoli, green beans, peas, asparagus and dark colored lettuce
Note: Juice will be not considered an acceptable substitute for consuming the fruit and vegetables.

Food & Drinks to Avoid
At least two days prior of the PRP treatment, candidates are restricted to avoid particular types of food and drinks.

• All types of bread should be replaced with rolled oats
• Replace all types of pasta with sweet potato
• Replace all type of rice with mashed sweet potato
• Avoid breakfast cereals
• Avoid baked items like pastries and cakes
• Replace kebab meat, fatty meat and fried meat with lean beef, lean pork, chicken or fresh fish
• Include less than ¼ teaspoon for all types of curries (per person basis)
• Strictly avoid taking pre-bottled juices because they contain preservatives which will cause negative impact to the treatment
• Soft drinks or sugary drinks should be avoided, can consider fresh water or lime water
• Minimize your caffeine intake
• Smoking & drinking to be avoided for 12 hours.
• If you are taking any anti-inflammatory or anti-coagulation medications, never forget to tell your PRP expert

 Some Quick Facts

• Avoid applying any serum or oils for at least 2 days prior to the treatment
• Don’t color your hair 1 week prior to your PRP
  
• Avoid hair extension 1 week prior and after the treatment
• Drink at least 1L water daily
• Take proper sleep, at least 6-8 hours
• Avoid gym activities at least 12 hour prior your PRP treatment.

The most common type of hair loss seen in women is androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia or baldness. This is seen as hair thinning predominantly over the top and sides of the head. It affects approximately one-third of all susceptible women, but is most commonly seen after menopause, although it may begin as early as puberty. Normal hair fall is approximately 100-125 hairs per day. Fortunately, these hairs are replaced. True hair loss occurs when lost hairs are not regrown or when the daily hair shed exceeds 125 hairs. Genetically, hair loss can come from either parents side of the family.
There are two different types of hair loss, medically known as anagen effluvium and Telogen effluvium. Anagen effluvium is generally due to internally administered medications, such as chemotherapy agents, that poison the growing hair follicle. Telogen effluvium, is due to an increased number of hair follicles entering the resting stage.
The most common causes of Telogen Effluvium are:
Physical stress: surgery, illness, anemia, rapid weight change.
Emotional stress: mental illness, death of a family member.
Thyroid abnormalities.
Medications: High doses of Vitamin A, Blood pressure and Gout medications.
Hormonal causes: pregnancy, birth control pills, menopause.
When the above causes of telogen effluvium are reversed or altered you should see the return of normal hair growth.

Hair loss may also occur due to dieting. Franchised diet programs which are designed or administered under the direction of a physician with prescribed meals, dietary supplements and vitamin ingestion have become popular. Sometimes the client is told that vitamins are a necessary part of the program to prevent hair loss associated with dieting. From a dermatologists’s standpoint, however, the vitamins cannot prevent hair loss associated with rapid, significant weight loss. Furthermore, many of these supplements are high in vitamin A which can magnify the hair loss.

Surgeries, severe illnesses and emotional stress can cause hair loss. The body simply shuts down production of hair during periods of stress since it is not necessary for survival and instead devotes its energies toward repairing vital body structures. In many cases there is a three month delay between the actual event and the onset of hair loss. Furthermore, there may be another three month delay prior to the return of noticeable hair regrowth. This then means that the total hair loss and regrowth cycle can last 6 months or possibly longer when induced by physical or emotional stress. There are some health conditions which may go undetected that can contribute to hair loss. These include anemia or low blood count and thyroid abnormalities. Both of these conditions can be detected by a simple, inexpensive blood test.

Hormonal changes are a common cause of female hair loss. Many women do not realize that hair loss can occur after pregnancy or following discontinuation of birth control pills. It is important to remember that the hair loss may be delayed by three months following the hormonal change and another three months will be required for new growth to be fully achieved.

There are a number of causes of hair loss. Among these are:

• Male Patten Baldness
• Female Pattern Baldness
• Alopecia (various forms) (National Alopecia Areata Foundation)
• Certain Medical Conditions
• Stress
• Diet and Nutrition
• Medications (including Chemotherapy) (American Hair Loss Association article)
• Trichotillomania (Trichotillomania Learning Center)
• Over Processed Hair
• Certain Scalp Conditions such as Telogen Effluvium
• Medical conditions thyroid, Hormone Imbalance

While hair loss is certainly unsettling it is not unusual. Members of the American Hair Loss Council are highly skilled and educated professionals and experts at helping determine the reason you are experiencing hair loss. Most importantly they provide proven solutions and hair loss treatment options that are individually customized for you, helping you look like “YOU” again.

Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is the loss of hair caused by physically stressing and putting tension on the hair. Certain hairstyling including hair weaving and corn rows that were done too tightly can cause this type of hair loss.

Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata, a disease of the body that causes hair loss, affects approximately two million Americans. Alopecia areata causes patchy hair loss. Two other forms of this disease are Alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis. Alopecia totalis is the condition that causes the loss of hair over the entire scalp; Alopecia universalis is when the condition of hair loss spreads over the entire body, even including eyebrows and eyelashes.
Although the causes of Alopecia areata are unknown, there is evidence that it could be a breakdown of the immune system resulting in what is called an autoimmune disorder. This is when the immune system thinks that the hair follicle is a foreign body, and attacks it. There is also the possibility that heredity plays a factor, because studies have shown that for one out of five people with alopecia areata, someone else in the family also had it. Ongoing research will help to discover the causes of alopecia areata, so that better treatments can be used.

Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic Alopecia is the modern medical term for either male or female pattern baldness. Androgenetic Alopecia represents close to 95% of all hair loss. This type of hair loss can be defined in two parts. First, andro- means to consist of androgens which are various hormones that control the appearance and development of masculine characteristics such as testosterone. Second is genetics, or the inheritance of genes from either the mother or father. Age added to genetics creates a time clock that signals the hair follicle to produce an enzyme named 5-alpha reductase. When testosterone is present in the follicle and it combines with the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, it produces DHT. DHT attacks the hair follicle, causing it to shrink, finally causing the hair to fall out and not grow back.

Anagen Effluvium
Anagen effluvium is the condition where hair loss is caused by internally taking certain medicines that can poison the hair follicle, keeping it from growing. One of the most common medicines that cause this type of hair loss is chemotherapy agents.