Hair Loss Treatments That Actually Work for Women & Men! | Dr. Shereene Idriss

Summary

Dr. Shireen, a knowledgeable physician, addresses the psychological impact of hair loss and offers a comprehensive guide on hair loss solutions in her YouTube channel's 'Pillow Talk Durham' segment. She emphasizes the importance of identifying the root cause of hair loss, which could be due to medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, stress, or genetic predispositions like androgenetic alopecia. Dr. Shireen discusses various treatments, including over-the-counter options like minoxidil (Rogaine) and ketoconazole shampoo, prescription medications such as finasteride (Propecia) and spironolactone, and supplements like neutrophins. She also highlights the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, microneedling, and the emerging exosome therapy. Dr. Shireen advises viewers to be consistent with treatments and consult with a dermatologist for personalized guidance, reassuring them that they have options to combat hair loss.

Takeaways

• 📅 National Hair Loss Awareness Month is in August, which focuses on understanding and addressing hair loss solutions.
• 💔 Hair loss can be extremely psychologically distressing, and it's important to consider the emotional toll it takes on individuals.
• 🧬 Not all hair loss is the same; it's crucial to rule out medical causes before attributing it to genetic predispositions like androgenetic alopecia.
• 🚫 Female pattern and male pattern hair loss are lifelong issues with no cure, so identifying and treating root causes can be more beneficial.
• 🧬 Androgenetic alopecia, the most common form of hair loss, has a genetic predisposition and affects hair loss patterns differently in men and women.
• 🩺 Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, and scalp infections can contribute to hair loss and should be checked through blood tests.
• 🤰 Hormonal changes such as postpartum, menopause, and birth control use can lead to hair loss.
• 🤯 Stress and trauma can cause telogen effluvium, a reversible condition where hair falls out dramatically but grows back once stress is resolved.
• 💊 Medications like anticoagulants, beta blockers, and antidepressants can have hair loss as a side effect.
• 🌱 Over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) can promote hair growth and slow down hair loss when applied topically.
• ⚖️ Nizoral shampoo, containing ketoconazole, can help with hair loss by reducing inflammation and potentially blocking DHT, which contributes to hair miniaturization.

Q & A

What is the psychological impact of hair loss?

Hair loss can be extremely distressing and psychologically tolling, affecting a person's well-being.

Why is it important to rule out medical causes before assuming androgenetic alopecia?

It's crucial because androgenetic alopecia is a lifelong issue with no cure, whereas other medical causes may be treatable, allowing for a resolution without ongoing concern.

What is the typical pattern of hair loss in female pattern hair loss?

In female pattern hair loss, there is a more diffuse loss, with prominence on the top of the scalp, leading to gradual thinning and baldness.

Why is a thyroid panel test important when assessing hair loss?

A thyroid panel is important to rule out thyroid disorders that may be contributing to hair loss, as these are treatable medical conditions.

What is alopecia areata and how does it present?

Alopecia areata is a medical condition where hair loss occurs in small, round patches. If the entire scalp is affected, it's known as alopecia totalis, and when the entire body is affected, it's called alopecia universalis.

How can stress and trauma affect hair growth?

Stress and trauma can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair falls out diffusely and dramatically. This is usually reversible once the stress is resolved.

What is the role of minoxidil (Rogaine) in treating hair loss?

Minoxidil is an over-the-counter treatment that promotes hair growth and slows down hair loss by dilating blood vessels, promoting blood flow to the hair follicles, and extending the growth phase of hair.

Why is it suggested to use a higher percentage of minoxidil for women experiencing hair loss?

The five percent minoxidil is recommended over the three percent typically marketed to women because it's been shown to be more effective, despite outdated regulations and marketing suggesting otherwise.

What is the role of ketoconazole (Nizoral shampoo) in addressing hair loss?

Ketoconazole is an anti-fungal medication that can help decrease scalp inflammation, kill the fungus that causes dandruff, and may block DHT, potentially making hair appear fuller and thicker.

How effective is rosemary oil in treating hair loss?

Rosemary oil has been shown to be as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair growth, but it requires twice daily application for at least six months to see the full effect.

What are the potential side effects of finasteride (Propecia)?

Finasteride can potentially cause a decrease in libido and erectile dysfunction in both men and women. It's also not recommended for women who are or may become pregnant due to hormonal interference.

What is the significance of PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy in treating hair loss?

PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses growth factors from a patient's own blood to prolong the growth phase of hair, increase the thickness of existing hair strands, and stimulate dormant hair follicles.