Managing Hair Loss: Advice, Treatment and Support

Common causes of alopecia

As part of the normal hair life cycle, about 50 to 100 strands of hair typically fall out each day, with new hair growing in their place. However, sometimes this process does not work properly, which can result in thinning hair or completely bald patches.

Here are the most common causes of hair loss:

• Androgenetic alopecia (or baldness) affects both men and women. It is believed to be caused by genetic factors and hormonal imbalances. In men, it can appear as early as adolescence and is characterized by a receding hairline and hair loss at the top of the head. In women, it is characterized by diffuse hair loss, often at the top of the head, which leads to thinning hair. It usually appears later in life, often after the menopause. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss, affecting up to 40% of women over the age of 50 and 50% of men of all ages.
• Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks hair follicles, which are small cavities where hair grows. It manifests as smooth, round patches that are completely hairless. Although these patches can appear anywhere on the body, they are most common on the scalp. Alopecia areata can affect anyone, but it is more commonly seen in children and adolescents. It is much less common than androgenetic alopecia, affecting only 2% of Canadians.
• Experiencing significant physical or emotional stress can also lead to hair loss. Stress can cause hair follicles to become dormant, resulting in increased hair loss a few weeks or months after the stressful event. This hair loss is usually reversible, although the hair that grows back may be a different colour or texture. Stress is also often a factor in trichotillomania, a condition in which a person compulsively pulls out their hair.
• Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy or menopause, as well as those related to thyroid problems, can also lead to increased hair loss.
• A dietary deficiency, particularly of iron, zinc or B-complex vitamins, can also lead to increased hair loss. This type of deficiency is often related to a medical condition or an overly restrictive diet.
• Scalp infections, such as ringworm, can also lead to hair loss, which is usually reversible once the infection has healed.
• Taking certain medications can affect the hair’s life cycle. Chemotherapy is often associated with hair loss, but several other medications can also cause increased hair loss. Hair loss is usually reversible upon the discontinuation of treatment.

Treatments for alopecia

Treating the underlying cause of hair loss can sometimes result in hair regrowth. In other cases, medication can be used to promote regrowth.

• Minoxidil is used to promote hair regrowth in people with androgenetic alopecia and sometimes in those with alopecia areata. It should be used regularly, as its effect ceases when it is stopped.
• Prescription drugs that block the hormone DHT are sometimes prescribed to men with androgenetic alopecia. They are effective, but can cause adverse effects, particularly sexual effects, in some men.
• In alopecia areata, corticosteroids may be used to treat the scalp inflammation that contributes to hair loss.
• If hair loss is caused by a dietary deficiency, it may be necessary to take supplements as well as making diet changes. Meeting with a nutritionist can be helpful in determining how to improve your diet based on your specific needs.
• When hair loss is caused by a hormonal imbalance, it can be alleviated by correcting this imbalance. Menopause hormone therapy, which is prescribed to relieve severe symptoms, can have a positive effect on hair loss, as can treatment for thyroid disorders.

Alopecia can also be treated surgically by grafting hair follicles from an unaffected area, often at the back of the head, and implanting them in the balding area. Another way to conceal hair loss is to wear wigs. 

Is it possible to prevent hair loss?

There are certain things you can do to promote healthy hair and limit hair loss. 

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Highly restrictive diets can lead to deficiencies that affect hair and overall health. Ensure you eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins to obtain all the essential vitamins and minerals. Although it is possible to take supplements, it is always best to get most of these elements from your diet.
• Manage stress through regular physical activity or relaxation techniques.
• Avoid overheating your hair when using styling tools such as curling or straightening irons or hairdryers. Use hair products that are suited to your hair type.
• Avoid pulling your hair too tightly, especially if you often have to wear it in buns or braids.
• Quit smoking. Smoking can contribute to hair loss by affecting the blood flow that nourishes the hair follicles. 

Your pharmacist is there for you!

Pharmacists can help you treat or prevent hair loss in many ways, such as:

• Reviewing your medication to determine whether it can be the cause of hair loss, and stopping or adjusting your treatment to reduce hair loss.

• Recommending an over-the-counter medication to promote hair regrowth.

• Recommending the appropriate supplement to treat or prevent a dietary deficiency.

• Prescribing treatment to help you quit smoking.

• Giving their professional advice on the effectiveness of natural products  (such as biotin) for promoting hair growth.

In some cases, a medical evaluation may be necessary, in which case your pharmacist will refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional.

Do you need advice or have questions related to hair loss? Make an appointment with your pharmacist today to get their professional advice.