Losing Hair? Know Thy Problem From Within!

Hair loss is potentially embarrassing, psychologically painful and lowers self-esteem to say the least. This can lead to many consequences to our quality of life, happiness and may have dire social consequences.

1. The life cycle of our hair

Throughout life, hair follicles undergo periods characterized by cycles of growth (anagen), involution (catagen), and rest (telogen). At any given time, 90% of scalp hair follicles are in anagen. The duration of the anagen phase determines maximum length of hair growth. Normally, up to 10% of scalp follicles are in telogen. Hence, between 50-150 telogen hairs are shed per day.

2. Is this the same for all hair?

The rate of hair growth and the duration of anagen vary with the type and location of hair. For example, the growth rate of scalp hair is approximately 0.3 mm per day and the duration of anagen ranges from 2-6 years. In contrast, eyebrow hair grows only at a rate of 0.1 mm per day and has an anagen phase of 2-3 months.

3. Is hair loss the same in males and females?

There are differences in how we assess and treat male and female hair loss. Female pattern hair loss is a common form of non-scarring hair loss that typically occurs in adult females. The characteristic feature is the progressive loss of hair starting at the part line, leading to a visible reduction in hair density. Male androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss in men that starts in the front of the head and recedes to the back, leading to eventual baldness.

4. How can I stop hair loss?

We want to journey with all our patients and ensure that they understand what we are doing for their hair.

The goals of treatment of female pattern hair loss include cessation of progression of hair loss and improvement in hair density that is aesthetically satisfactory for the patient. Eating a nutritious diet and good scalp care with proper hair care products are crucial to keep hair healthy.

Topical minoxidil and oral antiandrogenic therapy are the mainstays of treatment. For male patients with androgenetic alopecia who desire treatment, we recommend oral Finasteride or topical Minoxidil. Men treated with Finasteride / Minoxidil must continue treatment to maintain efficacy. If treatment is discontinued, hair loss will occur within several months.

There are also a few products that we have that can help to treat hair loss.

a) Healthsprings Anti-Hairloss Shampoo

b) Hair Growth Solution for Hair Loss

c) Healthsprings Hair Formula Supplement for Hair Growth

There is so much more that we wish to share regarding the losing of sleep and happiness over hair loss. Keen to find out more? Come in for a private consultation today at our various outlet – Woodleigh Family Clinic, Bukit Panjang Clinic and GP Clinic Orchard! You may contact us at +65 9728 2861 for more information, thank you.