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Hair Loss FAQ

What is hair growth cycle?

The growth of hair on the scalp follows a repeating,three-phase cycle. The growing phase of hair lasts the longest, anywhere from two to five years. The longer it lasts, the longer the hair. At any one time, about 87% of the hairs are in this phase. The second phase is a short transition period lasting around two weeks when the root shortens and shrinks. Only around 1% of hair follicles are in this stage at any one time. The resting phase ends hair growth. It lasts about three months and involves about 12% of hair. On average, hair grows about 0.35 millimeters a day. Since hairs on the scalp are at different stages of the growth cycle at any one time, it is normal to lose hair every day. 

What causes hair loss?

Androgenetic alopecia accounts for 95 percent of men's hair loss. It is caused by heredity, hormones, and age. Scientific research has proven that the gene for hair loss comes from either or both sides of the family.

The major reason for hair loss is genetic, but might also caused by many other factors.

Why do women lose hair?

The most common type of hair loss seen in women is androgenetic alopecia.  Women generally experience diffused thinning over the top of the head or crown, while most often maintaining a frontal hairline. Female pattern baldness usually begins about age 30, even as early as in 20s, becomes noticeable around age 40, and may be even more noticeable after menopause. 

As you age, a combination of heredity, the effects of hormones and age causes certain hair follicles to get smaller and smaller. This prevents the hair from fulfilling its regular growth process. Hair follicles gradually become smaller and the period of time in which the hair grows is reduced. And hair that can only grow for a short time is shorter, thinner, even colorless.

In addition to androgenetic alopecia, temporary conditions such as pregnancy, medication, diet, or stress can also cause women hair loss.

What are the hair loss types?

There are three major types: alopecia areata - temporary hair loss in a coin-shaped patch;  telogen effluvium - temporary hair loss secondary to a stressor on the system; and androgenetic alopecia - male pattern hair loss.

Can hair loss occur in young adults?

Male pattern hair loss can occur as early as 15, although it typically begins anywhere from the 20s and early 30s. Alopecia areata and telogen effluvium, two other forms of temporary hair loss, can occur in children as young as one year of age. 

What can be the cause of a sudden loss of a large mass of hair?

Stressors to your system, such as illness, high fever, pregnancy, extreme weight loss or gain, and drug use, can cause temporary hair loss. This occurs when the ratio of growing to resting hairs is upset and more of the growing hair shifts into a resting phase. This type of hair loss is temporary and full regrowth could be expected.

Do shampoos and other hair products cause hair loss?

An allergic reaction to any constituent in shampoo or hair products can cause hair loss. Caustic hair dyes, straighteners, and other products can certainly cause inflammation of the scalp and result in hair loss.

Can any hairstyles cause hair loss?

Certain hairstyles can contribute to hair loss, most notably styles involving tight braids or pull-backs. This form of hair loss is called traction alopecia. This occurs when the hair is pulled tightly back and fastened at the base of the skull, or braided into tight braids or rows. Exposure to this type of hairstyle over long periods can result in a scarring alopecia, with no potential for regrowth.

How long does a treatment take to see results?

At least 3-4 months, though usually significantly longer. Many do not notice any apparent improvements until well after a year. This is because hair follicles undergo a relatively long dormancy period in between hair growth cycles. In addition, hair only grows about 1/2 inch per month in non-thinning areas and usually considerably slower in thinning areas. Since it generally takes several cycles of growth/fallout/regrowth, with the hair getting thicker and longer each time, it can take a great deal of time to see noticeable improvement.

Does Wearing a hat causes hair loss?

As long as you don't regularly wear a hat that's so tight that it restricts circulation--blood flow to the hair follicles--this will not cause hair loss. It can, however, damages hair because of the effects of sweat, dirt, and skin particles that can clog pores.

What is the best hair loss treatment?

In our store, the top selling products for hair loss are HairMax LaserComb, Spectral DNC, Revivogen, and Toppik.

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