After all, what is hair loss?

After all, what is hair loss?

1 February 2021

Hair loss is a physiological process that occurs daily and which integrates one of the stages of the natural hair growth cycle. But, how can we better understand this phenomenon? When does hair loss stop being normal and become a problem? What are the factors that trigger it? Is there any solution?

As we know, the hair is constantly renewing. Each hair follicle is unique and responsible for the production and growth of several strands of hair, along an asynchronous cycle that usually lasts between five to seven years. Being at its own stage of the hair growth cycle, each hair strand is therefore independent: a feature that not only prevents a marked hair loss but also justifies the fact that, on average, we lose between 50 to 100 hairs per day.

The physiological mechanism of hair growth comprises three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. In the first, for three to six years, the hair grows from the root, at a rate of about 1 cm every 28 days. In turn, the next stage - catagen - determines a transition period, in which about 1% of our hair is included, where it gradually stops growing because it stops making contact with the blood vessels and with the cutaneous papilla. Also known as the resting phase, telogen lasts approximately three months and it is when the detachment of the hair shaft begins. Between 10 and 15% of our hair is in this phase, which is followed by the moment when the oldest hair on the scalp falls and is replaced by new hair: exogen.

Although natural, the truth is that we often see some fluctuations in the hair growth cycle, which sometimes translates into more significant hair loss. But, why does this happen? Well, hair loss is a multifactorial phenomenon. However, its greatest predominance is common at certain times of the year, such as in the fall. And why? Because the different phases of the hair follicle cycle are essentially regulated by hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, prolactin, thyroxine, and triiodothyronine. Now, it is known that the pituitary gland is the endocrine gland that regulates the normal functioning of most of our hormonal processes and that it is highly influenced by exposure to sunlight. Thus, we easily understand that both the reduction in the number of hours of sunshine and the decrease in the environment temperature are characteristics that interfere with our circadian rhythm and, therefore, affect the regulation of hormonal production and, consequently, the hair growth cycle. . Therefore, seasonal changes, stress, the postpartum period, menopause/andropause, and endocrine disorders are factors that contribute to the premature entry of hair into the telogen phase. However, it is still important not to overlook the relevance that either nutritional imbalances or taking some medications can take on sudden hair loss. Deficiency in iron and other vitamins and minerals, as well as treatments with immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antihypertensives, and statins, are part of the whole set of events described that may be the cause of the so-called telogenic effluvium.

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that generally appears three months after exposure to one of the above factors and can be acute or chronic if the hair loss occurs over a period of less than or more than six months, respectively. However, in addition to this type of hair loss, which normally does not imply baldness, there are others that may or may not be related to our genetic heritage. Knowing them is, from my point of view, extremely important, so that we can find solutions that are consistent with our concrete needs.

Androgenetic alopecia, for example, is one of the most common hair loss problems due to hereditary mechanisms. It manifests itself mainly in men, initially occurring more accentuated in the area of ​​the temples and extending, over time, at the top of the head, often leading to total hair loss. In women, hair loss is not so radical. However, there is a gradual and diffuse decrease in the thickness of the hair strands, as a natural part of an aging process, in which the hair loses its pigmentation and becomes weaker, firstly by reducing its resistance and increasing its porosity.

It is easy to see that there are several factors that can cause changes in our capillary density, but there are also countless solutions available for the treatment and prevention of this problem. Counseling with a health professional is, undoubtedly, the first step to a successful path. For this reason, you will soon be able to find on the blog an article on the different approaches that exist on the market to fight this issue, as well as tips that will help to maintain a stronger and healthier hair and scalp.

Until then, we are entirely available to answer all your questions, on this and other topics. Stay tuned, take care of yourself and protect yourself!

 

Dr. Andreia Moreira

 

     

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