Hair loss is a common concern that affects millions of people worldwide. At The Lumen Center, we know it can be a source of significant stress and impact confidence, but it doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of life. Understanding the reasons is the first step toward addressing it head-on.
In this article, we will explore the top reasons for hair loss that our founder, Dr. Andrew Kwak has seen over the years and with hundreds of patients. We also discuss how hair transplants and other non-surgical treatments can offer viable solutions for certain types of hair loss.
1. Genetics: The Most Common Cause of Hair Loss
The most common cause of hair loss is genetics. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, affects at least 80% of men and half of women by age 70, and those percentages with age. It’s caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes miniaturization of the hair follicles.
Hair loss presents itself in different ways in men and women. In men, it typically starts as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while women experience a general thinning of hair across the scalp. This type of hair loss is progressive and can begin as early as the teenage years.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can significantly impact hair growth. Conditions such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid imbalances can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss. For example, many women experience hair thinning or shedding after giving birth due to a drop in estrogen levels. Once hormone levels rebalance, your hair will usually regrow.
3. Medical Conditions That Can Cause Hair Loss
Certain medical conditions can cause hair loss. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to patches of hair loss. Other conditions such as scalp infections, lupus, and diabetes can also contribute to hair loss.
4. Medications and Treatments
Hair loss can be a side effect of certain medications and treatments. Drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair shedding. Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also known to cause significant hair loss.
5. Stress and Lifestyle Factors Can Affect Hair Loss
Physical or emotional stress can lead to a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium. This condition causes hair follicles to enter a resting phase prematurely, resulting in hair shedding. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of sleep, and excessive use of hair styling tools and products can also contribute to hair loss. When the cause of stress is addressed, hair loss can usually be reversed.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet lacking essential nutrients can lead to hair thinning and loss. Sudden weight loss and restrictive, fad diets can lead to inadequate intake of key vitamins and minerals. Nutrients such as iron, protein, vitamin D, and biotin are crucial in maintaining healthy hair. Deficiencies in these nutrients can weaken hair follicles and lead to hair shedding. It’s key to maintain a healthy, balanced diet to help promote normal hair growth. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as veggies, salmon, avocado, and almonds can help support hair health and provide your body with the nutrients it needs.
Treating Hair Loss at The Lumen Center
Patients who are ideal candidates for hair restoration treatments usually have androgenic alopecia. The good news is that hair restoration technology and treatment options have improved dramatically over the years. There are now more options than ever to help combat hair loss for both men and women.
At The Lumen Center in Bryn Mawr, PA, we stay on top of the latest medical advances and house the most state-of-the-art hair transplant systems in the region. In fact, we’re the only practice in the Philadelphia area to offer both the ARTAS iX Robotic and NeoGraft hair transplant systems. Both systems utilize the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method and provide natural, permanent results. We have many patient success stories and a full gallery of transformations. For women, we offer a groundbreaking, comprehensive approach to hair restoration with a variety of proven methods that improve hair density and restore confidence.
We’ll help you identify the cause of your hair loss and find the right treatment option for your needs. Contact us today at 610.525.0606 to schedule your free consultation.
Hair Loss Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a Good Candidate for Hair Loss Treatment?
Nearly all Philadelphia patients who suffer from alopecia are good candidates for the ARTAS iX or NeoGraft Automated FUE systems. In addition, we offer platelet-rich plasma treatments, medications, and supplements that can help grow thicker hair and improve density. We’ll ask you a series of questions, understand your goals, and discuss all of your hair loss treatment options during your free consultation.
Which Is Better, the ARTAS Robotic System or NeoGraft?
The ARTAS iX and NeoGraft systems are both effective, but the ARTAS iX system has some important benefits. This physician-guided robotic system harvests healthy hair grafts and ensures that no area is “over-harvested.” The 3D mapping feature is another incredible feature. However, NeoGraft is also effective and can often produce larger graft counts to the donor area. There are benefits to both innovative systems, and the two are frequently used in combination to tailor treatment plans.
Why Should I Choose LUMEN for My Hair Loss Treatment?
We know you have options and appreciate the research our patients conduct when considering their options. LUMEN stands out for a few reasons, one being that we are the only practice in the Philadelphia area with both the ARTAS and NeoGraft systems. We also stay on top of the latest technology and treatment methods, bringing the best in hair loss treatments to our patients. Patients also appreciate our thorough process – from the consultation to up to one year after their procedure. We schedule multiple follow-up appointments and are with you every step of the way.
Sandra brings over 15 years of healthcare expertise to her role as a marketing writer, where she specializes in turning medical information into easy-to-understand content. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her family and reading.