Happy Healthy Hair
Understanding Thinning Hair: A Supportive Chat with Your AI Trichologist
Hello there! I'm your AI Trichologist, and I'm here to chat about thinning hair. I know this can be a sensitive and sometimes distressing topic, but please remember you're not alone, and there are ways I can help. Let's go through some commonly asked questions, and remember, I'm happy to help.
What exactly is thinning hair?
Thinning hair (Reflective Hair Loss) is best described as when you have a noticeable reduction in hair volume or density. It's like your hair deciding to play hide and seek, but forgetting the 'seek' part. This can happen all over your scalp or in specific areas, and it can affect both men and women of all ages.
Reflective hair loss (Telogen Effluvium) - when we experience excessive hair shedding for an extended length of time. This can be a sudden incidence or may have been happening for months on end. It can be quite scary and it's common to see the falling hair all around your house, in the plug hole after showering and often on your clothes and around your desk.
The anagen phase of the hair growth cycle is interrupted and your hair enters the telogen phase prematurely, creating less volume throughout your scalp.
Common symptoms:
01
Profuse Shedding
Telogen Effluvium (TE) is a very common hair thinning condition. This excess shedding can begin suddenly, it is not itchy nor painful. You will notice many more hairs coming out on your brush, comb and when your hair is washed.
02
Acute Telogen Effluvium
A very extreme and sudden shedding of hair a few months after having a baby, particularly if the delivery was by Caesarian Section. Operations, blood loss and general anaesthetics can also have an impact on hair shedding.
03
Chronic Telogen Effluvium
A high fever such as caused by illness (I've seen many people who suffered long term hair shedding having been affected by Covid or after having the vaccine).
Long term prescription medicine use such as antibiotics, the contraception pill. Thyroid conditions also see hair shedding in greater quantity.
04
Stress related hair loss
Stress related hair loss is a difficult condition to diagnose and manage because the stress is causing the hair loss and in turn the hair thinning is causing stress. If all other probable causes have been eliminated then stress must be considered. Consistently high levels of cortisol would be expected in this instance.
AI TRICHOLOGIST SAYS
Considering hair loss and hair thinning are almost always a symptom of an underlying undiagnosed condition or systemic disease - thinning hair should be seen as a wake up call from your body tell you that something is not right!
If you become aware that your hair has thinned simply complete the consultation questionnaire so AI Trichologist can give you expert help.
You may be advised to have blood tests, which can be taken by your own GP surgery to assist at diagnosing the reason why your hair has thinned. (There is a small fee for
writing to your GP).
Once diagnosed you may be offered in clinic light therapy and or Mesotherapy treatments
specifically for your thinning hair, which will support thicker hair growth and extend your hair growth cycle.
Is thinning hair common?
Thinning hair is incredibly common, affecting millions of people worldwide at some point in their lives. Around 50% of men and 25% of women will experience noticeable hair loss by age 50. So if you're dealing with this, you're not a weirdo and you can do something about it. Get in touch by email or complete the Free Consultation Form.
What causes thinning hair?
Thinning hair can be caused by various factors:
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes (like menopause or thyroid issues)
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Stress
- Medication
- Medical conditions
- Hairstyling practices
How do I know if my hair is thinning?
Here are some signs to look out for:
- More hair than usual in your brush or shower drain
- Widening hair partings
- Scalp visible through your hair
- Smaller/less volume ponytail or bun
- Receding hairline (more common in men)
Remember, it's normal to lose 70-100 hairs a day. It's when you notice a significant increase that it's probably time to investigate.
Is thinning hair reversible?
I'm so glad you asked this question – it's a really common worry. The answer is: it depends. Some causes of thinning hair, like nutritional deficiencies or stress, can often be reversed with diet correction and lifestyle changes. On the other hand genetic hair loss, is more challenging, but it can be controlled, slowed down and managed. Like tending a garden – with the right care, you can make it look much better, even if it’s difficult to get back to a full, lush lawn.
How is thinning hair diagnosed?
Diagnosing thinning hair usually involves:
- A thorough examination of your scalp and hair
- A review of your medical history and any family history of hair loss
- Blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances
- In some cases, a scalp biopsy
I’m a hair detective, gathering clues to solve the mystery of your thinning locks
What treatments are available for thinning hair?
I have several tools in our treatment toolbox:
- Topical treatments like minoxidil
- Oral medications like finasteride (mainly for men)
- Nutritional supplements if deficiencies are detected
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments
- Low-level laser therapy
- Hair transplant surgery for suitable candidates
Remember, treatment success varies, and it often takes months to see results. It's a bit like growing a garden – it takes time and patience to see the seeds emerge and bloom.
How can I style thinning hair to make it look fuller?
Here are some styling tips I can suggest:
- Try a shorter cut – it can make hair look fuller
- Use volumising products, but avoid heavy gels or oils
- Hair fibres or powders to temporarily conceal thinning areas work very well
- Experiment with different partings or a messy style to add volume
- Add colour - low lights and/or highlights to create depth
- Add clip in extensions - place around your crown to add volume.
How can I cope with the emotional impact of thinning hair?
This is such an important question. Hair thinning can be emotionally challenging, and your feelings are completely valid. Here are some coping strategies:
- Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings
- Join support groups or online communities
- Focus on other aspects of your appearance and overall health
- Explore different hairstyles with your stylist or consider using hair extensions
Remember that confidence comes from within, not from your scalp and many people with thinning hair lead happy, successful lives. Your hair doesn't define your worth or attractiveness!
When should I see a doctor about my thinning hair?
It's great that you're being proactive about your hair health
Consider seeing a doctor if:
- You're experiencing sudden or patchy hair loss
- Your hair loss is accompanied by scalp irritation or pain
- You're noticing other symptoms like fatigue or unexplained weight changes
- Your hair thinning is causing significant distress
- You want to explore treatment options
Remember, early intervention can often lead to a better outcome. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice – that's what I’m here for!
