When you look in the mirror and find thinning hair, it can be disturbing. Whether there is more hair in your brush, on your pillowcase or in the shower drain, losing your hair is not something anyone wants to experience. There are a number of causes of thinning hair and many types can be treated. If you suspect hair loss, consult your doctor who can help you determine the cause and treatment that is best for you.
Identification
Hair is made up of layers of protein, called keratin. It is the layers of protein that give hair its strength, according to the Dermatology Online Journal. The structure of hair involves the follicle, root and shaft. The hair follicle consists of epithelial and connective tissues. Within the follicle is the hair root. The hair shaft is the part of the hair that is protruding above the scalp.
Function
Your hair undergoes a three-phase growing cycle. Anagen, the first phase, is the longest and most active. It typically lasts from two to six years. The second phase, catagen, is when your hair becomes protein. The last phase, telogen, is when your hair falls out and the hair follicle reenters the first phase of anagen. If your hair fails to reenter the anagen phase, your hair follicles become inactive and you gradually lose your hair.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of thinning hair is the receding hairline. Androgenetic alopecia is hereditary thinning or balding. For men, this is characterized as a receding hairline, balding at the top of the head with the hair loss being either partial or total. For women, this is characterized as thinning at the front, sides and crown of the head. Another symptom of thinning hair is loss of hair in small, round patches. This is called alopecia areata and it may also occur in the eyebrows, eyelashes and beards, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other symptoms of hair thinning could include finding your hair in your ponytail holders or other hair accessories. This is often temporary and termed traction alopecia.
Prevention
To help prevent your hair from thinning, a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water will benefit both your hair and scalp greatly. Handle your hair with care and avoid using tight hair accessories. Do not brush or comb your hair when it is wet, according to the Mayo Clinic, as your hair can break more easily and appear thin. Try letting your hair dry naturally and avoid rubbing it vigorously with a towel. Damage from chemical treatments such as hair dyes, tints, bleaches and straighteners can break hair and make it appear thinner.
Treatment
Generally speaking, the more extensive your hair loss, the less effective the treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic. Minoxidil is a popular treatment for androgenetic alopecia for both men and women that helps to promote hair growth and prevents further loss. Male pattern baldness can be treated with finasteride. It is used to help slow hair loss and in some people it may help new hair growth. Alopecia areata may be treated with injections of cortisone into the scalp to stimulate new hair growth. Other treatments include hair restoration therapy, transplants or scalp reductions.
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