Alopecia and everything there is to know about causes and treatment options

What is alopecia?

Alopecia, often known as hair loss, is a relatively widespread condition that affects millions of people worldwide, regardless of age or gender.

Statistics show that up to 50% of men and 25% of women will experience some form of alopecia during their lifetime. Understanding alopecia is the first step to finding effective treatment and proper care.

Types of alopecia

Alopecia is divided into several types, each with different symptoms and causes. Alopecia areata, which manifests as local bald patches, is often associated with autoimmune reactions. Androgenetic alopecia, known as male or female pattern hair loss, is caused by hormonal factors and largely by genetics. Telogenic effluvium causes temporary hair loss due to stress, shock or perhaps health problems. Traction alopecia is caused by physically stressing the hair, for example, by wearing hairstyles that put too much strain on the hair.

Causes of alopecia

As can be seen from the previous lines, the causes of alopecia can vary from heredity and genetic predispositions to hormonal imbalances and autoimmune reactions. Psychological factors, such as stress, and lifestyle factors, including diet and exposure to harmful environmental factors, also have a significant impact.

Diagnosis of alopecia - why hair falls out

To properly treat alopecia it is essential to make an accurate diagnosis, which may require a combination of different tests and examinations. The first of these is usually with a dermatologist, who will perform a visual examination of the affected areas. In some cases, the doctor may order blood tests to help identify possible hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies that could be causing the hair loss.

Another important method is skin biopsy, in which the doctor takes a small sample of skin from the affected area and examines it under a microscope. This technique helps to detect whether any abnormalities in the follicles or inflammatory processes are present. For modern diagnosis of alopecia, trichoscopy is increasingly used, a method in which the hair and scalp are examined in detail using a digital microscope. Trichoscopy allows for a quick and non-invasive analysis that can reveal structural abnormalities in the hair or problems with the scalp that are not visible to the naked eye.

Treatment methods

A thorough examination and proper diagnosis are key to successfully determining the type of alopecia and then choosing an effective treatment plan. Depending on the type of alopecia detected, the doctor may proceed with specific treatment methods that target the cause of the problem.

Treatment for alopecia includes a wide range of options from pharmacological agents such as minoxidil and finasteride, to enhancing hair serums, alternative methods such as herbal medicine and aromatherapy, to surgical procedures such as hair transplants. Support and counselling are also essential for the psychological well-being of patients.

Hair prevention and care

While some forms of alopecia, such as hereditary types, may not be entirely within our control, proper hair care and an appropriate lifestyle can make a significant contribution to maintaining healthy hair and minimizing the risk of hair loss. Here are some basic tips on how to care for your hair and promote its health:

Gentle hair care - To keep hair healthy, it is important to avoid hairstyles that cause excessive tension, such as tight braids and tightly styled hairstyles. Such tension can cause traction alopecia, a condition in which hair falls out due to tension and pulling. It is also recommended to limit the use of hot styling tools such as blow dryers, flat irons or curling irons, as these tools dry and damage the hair.

Proper nutrition is key to overall body and hair health. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins can strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth. It is also important to ensure adequate intake of protein, which is the building block of hair.

Hydration and Scalp Care - Scalp care is essential for maintaining healthy hair. It is important to use shampoos and conditioners that are gentle on your hair type and scalp. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can cause irritation or dryness. For additional care, you can also use hair serums available in our e-shop.

Regular trimming of hair ends helps to remove split ends, leading to stronger and healthier hair growth.

Stress can be a trigger for various types of hair loss, including telogen effluvium. To keep hair in good health, it is important to practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga or regular exercise.

If your diet does not contain all the necessary nutrients for hair, you may consider dietary supplements. However, it is important to consult with your doctor or dietitian before starting any supplementation.

Don't be ashamed of alopecia

Alopecia can be considerably stressful, but thanks to modern medicine and increased awareness, effective solutions can be found. Education about alopecia and support from the community are invaluable aids in finding solutions to this problem.