Hair Growth Therapy
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What is Happening during Hair loss?

Normal hair growth follows a cycle consisting of three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). During the anagen phase, which can last several years, hair actively grows from the follicles. This is followed by the catagen phase, a short period where hair growth slows and the follicles shrink. Finally, the telogen phase lasts a few months, during which the hair follicle rests before eventually shedding and being replaced by new hair from the same follicle.

In contrast, hair growth in hair loss patients often deviates from this cycle. Conditions such as androgenetic alopecia can shorten the anagen phase and prolong the telogen phase, resulting in thinner hair and increased shedding.

Additionally, hair follicles may miniaturize, producing finer and weaker hair strands. As a result, the normal balance of hair shedding and regrowth is disrupted, leading to noticeable thinning and baldness.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics: Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause. Hair loss occurs when new hair doesn’t replace the hair that has fallen out.

• Hormonal Changes: Conditions such as pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders can lead to hair loss. Hair growth slows during the catagen phase.

• Medical Conditions: Scalp infections, alopecia areata, and other skin disorders can contribute to hair thinning. Alopecia areata can also cause body hair to fall out. Patchy hair loss and sudden hair loss can be symptoms of underlying conditions.

• Medications: Certain drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, and heart problems may cause hair loss. Some medications can lead to permanent hair loss.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins can impact hair health.

• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hair shedding and thinning.

Investigations Required for Hair Loss

When experiencing hair loss, it’s crucial to determine the underlying cause to develop an effective treatment plan. At Parkwood Skin Clinic, we conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes a range of investigations to diagnose the root cause of hair loss. Here are some of the key investigations we may perform:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

– Medical History: We start with a detailed discussion of your medical history, family history of hair loss, and any underlying health conditions or medications that may contribute to hair loss.

– Physical Examination: A thorough examination of your scalp and hair to assess the pattern and extent of hair loss.

2. Blood Tests

– Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for anemia or other blood disorders.

– Thyroid Function Tests: To detect thyroid imbalances such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

– Hormone Levels: Including androgens, testosterone, and other hormones that might influence hair growth.

– Nutritional Deficiencies: Levels of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and zinc.

3. Scalp Biopsy

In some cases, a biopsy might be required. A biopsy is a surgical procedure where a small sample of scalp tissue may be taken for microscopic examination to identify conditions like alopecia areata, scarring alopecia, or fungal infections.

4. Hair Pull Test

Gently pulling a small section of hair to determine how many hairs come out, which helps evaluate the severity of hair shedding.

5. Trichoscopy

A non-invasive examination using a dermatoscope to magnify and analyze the hair and scalp. Trichoscopy helps in analyzing the hair follicle, particularly in diagnosing conditions like telogen effluvium. This helps in diagnosing conditions like androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and other scalp disorders.

6. Hormonal Assessments

– DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate): To evaluate adrenal gland function and androgen levels.

– Free Androgen Index: To assess levels of free androgens that can influence hair growth.

7. Autoimmune Screening

To detect autoimmune conditions such as lupus or alopecia areata that may contribute to hair loss.

8. Allergy Testing

To identify any allergic reactions or sensitivities that could affect the scalp and hair health.

By conducting these investigations, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of your hair loss condition, enabling us to create a personalised and effective treatment plan.