Hair Loss: When to worry?

Hair fall and constantly renewed, but when hair loss becomes exaggerated to show a sparse head, there should be concern. Some causes are well known ... Read it.
Hair loss is also known as alopecia. It can be partial or complete, and can affect all body hair.

Hair growth and life cycle are influenced by genetic factors, hormonal factors, growth factors, ... A certain amount of hair falls almost every day and continually renewed. However, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist when

- Hair loss becomes progressively diffuse

- Hair loss is by handles and gradually becomes abundant

- The top of the skull becomes increasingly sparse

In these cases, the search for causes is needed to halt the progression.

Sometimes, some signs may precede the hair loss, such as itching, pain experienced at the roots, or the abundance of dandruff.

The role of heredity is an important risk factor in the onset of baldness. It is generally common alopecia appears in an individual with a family history of hair loss. In addition, alopecia is sometimes linked to an autoimmune disease.

However, there are several forms that differ according to the causes.

Androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness, which is the form most commonly encountered. Hair loss usually begins at the front or top of the head, and evolves in a progressive and sustainable. The hair becomes too thin and sensitive. This form of baldness involves the role of androgens on the scalp and on the life of hair. The person with this type of alopecia often has family history of alopecia is found in parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts ...

In androgenetic alopecia, stress or emotional shock are the primary risk factors. However, other factors may also be involved as hormone treatments, or environmental factors (such as the fall and spring). It was also found that alopecia is often associated with polycystic ovary syndrome or an abnormally high cholesterol. Age has no particular influence.

There are also other factors that trigger or promote should be sought in cases of hair loss:

- Certain medications or treatments such as chemotherapy

- An unbalanced diet with some micronutrients deficiency, undernutrition

- Anemia

- A thyroid disease

- Smoking

- For women: pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes

Fever, general anesthesia or accidents can cause a sudden loss of hair.

If evolution can be slowed by treatment, alopecia nevertheless remains an irreversible condition.

Our tips

There are no safe ways that prevent alopecia, because often heredity is involved. However, proper hair care and a healthy lifestyle reduce the risk of developing or worsening of alopecia:

- Maintain proper hygiene of hair and scalp

- Avoid irritants and chemicals (mild shampoo)

- Ensure that equipment and accessories for hair care are individual and flexible

- Avoid too tight braids

- Ensure a healthy and balanced diet: foods rich in iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium must be prioritized

- Manage your stress and find ways to relax, to rest when extreme mental and physical fatigue

- Avoid smoking

The treatment of alopecia depends mainly cause, in most cases, drug treatment is not necessary.