10 Tips to Prevent Hair Loss

1.Consider Propecia (Finasteride)- This tip is for men only because this medication is only recommended for use by men. Propecia blocks the production of a male hormone called DHT, which is the #1 culprit in causing male pattern baldness. This is a prescription medication with an excellent safety profile. It probably prevents about 85% of the hair loss that would have occurred had you not taken it. In addition, Propecia may result in the new growth of hair, particularly in the crown area of the head.

2.Use Rogaine (Minoxidil)- Both men and women who have noticed their hair thinning can benefit from this. Rogaine is a topical medication which is available over the counter in drug stores. We are not quite sure how it works, but when used twice a day it results in much less hair loss and some re-growth of hair in the crown. Most men use the 5% foam and women tend to start with the 2% version. Minoxidil was once a high blood pressure medication, but doctors began noticing that patients who took it developed increased hair growth.

3.Try the Laser Comb- Various wavelengths of laser light are known to stimulate hair growth. The FDA has approved several commercial laser applications and portable laser combs for home use. These devices can be used up to 3 times per week for 20 minutes and result in a mild but significant increase in hair density. The only problem with this treatment is compliance, meaning that they only work if you remember to regularly use them.

4.Avoid Scalp Sunburn- burns are bad for our skin and bad for our hair. If your hair has thinned, more UV light is reaching your scalp and can potentially damage the hair follicles. If you plan to go out on a sunny day, wear a hat and in addition apply a spray sun block to the scalp with protection of SP15 or more.

5.Know Your Family Tree- it is very important to know that patterned baldness in both men and women is inherited from our ancestors. Therefore if your relatives have lost their hair, you stand a good chance to do the same. I see too many patients wait too long to come in for preventative treatment which could save several years worth of lost hair. If hair loss runs in your family, call a hair loss specialist at the first signs of hair loss or visible thinning. Prevention works better than treatment.

6.Avoid Tight Braids- an interesting and common cause of hair loss is traction alopecia. People who braid their hair very tightly and in rows can cause a great deal of tension on the hair follicles. Over time this can result in significant and permanent hair loss. This is very commonly seen in African Americans.

7.Check Your Thyroid Function- low thyroid hormone can definitely result in hair loss. This is more common in women than men. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism are weight gain, tiredness, dry skin and swelling. You should talk with your personal physician about checking your thyroid function, especially if you have any of these symptoms.

8.Keep Track of Your Blood Count- anemia or low blood cell count can definitely contribute to hair loss . Hair follicles are very metabolically active and require a great deal of oxygen to function normally. It is our red blood cells which carry that oxygen to our cells. If you are anemic for any reason, your hair density may suffer. It is a good idea to have your blood count checked by your personal physician on an annual basis.

9.Tell Your Doctor About New Scalp Rashes, Scales, and Sores- Not all hair loss is genetic. Rarely, various skin diseases that affect the scalp can cause hair loss. If you notice any new scalp rashes or redness, pustules, flakes, or sores, make sure to tell your doctor and seek the advice of a dermatologist.

10.Avoid Severe Stress- Stress can result in hair loss. The most common examples are the stress of rapid weight loss and the stress of pregnancy. I understand that stress is often unavoidable in our society, but paying attention to techniques that can help control your stress such as daily exercise, music and friendship can also potentially benefit your hair.
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