Cracking the Code: What Causes Hair Loss and How to Address It

Hair loss manifests in various forms and severities, affecting patients at different stages of life for many different reasons. In other words, everyone’s individual experience with hair loss is uniquely their own. At San Diego Aesthetics & Med Spa in La Mesa, CA, we have worked with many people who are struggling with hair loss, and we are committed to addressing this concern with treatment plans as unique as our patients.

We provide regenerative treatments designed to support and promote hair growth. By focusing on the underlying causes of hair loss, our approach can help mitigate the effects and stimulate the scalp’s natural regenerative processes for healthier hair over time.

Learning About Your Hair’s Growth Cycle

Your hair undergoes a natural cycle that includes growth, resting, and shedding phases. Factors such as diet, stress, and hormonal changes can disrupt this cycle, leading to increased shedding or slowed growth. Recognizing these patterns helps in early detection and intervention, providing a better groundwork for treatment strategies.

What Is a Normal Amount of Hair to Lose?

Each day, it’s common to shed between 50 and 100 hairs, a natural part of the hair’s lifecycle. When you start noticing more significant thinning hair in your brush or shower drain, it might indicate a shift from this normal shedding process. Monitoring these changes can help with the early identification of underlying issues, which can make treatment more effective. 

The Biology of Hair Loss

Hair loss occurs when the balance in the hair growth cycle is disturbed, leading to a reduction in hair density. As hair follicles age, they can also shrink, resulting in thinner, shorter hairs. Certain factors can lead to follicular miniaturization, where hair becomes finer and eventually stops growing.

What Causes Hair Loss? 

Genetic Factors

Genetic predisposition is a primary contributor to hair loss, often manifesting as male or female pattern baldness. This condition, known as androgenetic alopecia, follows a predictable pattern and is influenced by the levels of androgens, which are hormones related to hair growth. While genetics play a significant role, the timing and severity of hair loss can still vary widely among individuals with these predispositions. 

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can impact hair growth and loss. Events such as pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid problems often lead to temporary or permanent changes in hair density. These shifts can either accelerate hair shedding or disrupt the growth cycle, leading to noticeable changes in hair volume and health.

Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can lead to thinning hair or loss, including alopecia areata, scalp infections, and trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder). Autoimmune diseases, skin disorders, and nutritional deficiencies can also diminish hair health, affecting the hair follicles’ ability to produce healthy strands.

Medications and Supplements

Certain medications and supplements can contribute to hair loss as a side effect. Treatments for arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure have been known to affect hair growth and density. It’s essential to consult healthcare providers about the potential hair loss effects of any prescribed medications.

Stress and Lifestyle Choices

Chronic stress and poor lifestyle choices, including inadequate nutrition, smoking, and lack of sleep, can all lead to hair weakening and loss. Prolonged stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, reducing new hair growth and leading to increased shedding and visible thinning. Managing stress and improving lifestyle habits can help mitigate these effects and support hair health.

Treatments for Hair Loss

PRP Injections

PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, injections are a form of hair loss treatment involving the use of a patient’s own blood. The process separates platelets and plasma, which are then injected into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles and encourage new hair growth. This method is beneficial for individuals experiencing pattern baldness or thinning hair, as it uses natural growth factors present in the blood to repair and rejuvenate hair follicles.

PRF Injections

PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, injections take a step further from PRP by using a concentration of platelets, fibrin, and white blood cells. This form of hair loss treatment is newer and involves a slower release of growth factors, providing a more sustained stimulation to the hair follicles. PRF injections are advantageous for those seeking longer-lasting results due to the continuous release of growth factors and cytokines involved in healing and tissue regeneration.

How Can I Boost the Health of My Hair?

• Eat a Nutritious Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for hair health. Incorporating foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fish can support follicle strength and come alongside your hair loss treatment for even better results.
• Keep Hair and Scalp Healthy: Avoiding product buildup and not over-drying your hair are both important for maintaining scalp health. Gentle and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners with plenty of nutrients can be good hair-thinning solutions.
• Manage Stress Levels: High stress can contribute to hair shedding and loss. Limiting as much stress as possible and engaging in relaxation techniques and regular physical activity can aid in hair restoration by mitigating the impact of inevitable stress on your body.
• Get Regular Trims: Trimming hair regularly can prevent split ends and hair breakage, promoting healthier and fuller hair. This practice can be part of your overall thinning hair treatment plan.
• Protect Your Hair From the Sun: Prolonged sun exposure can damage the hair, leading to brittleness and discoloration. Wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection can also be beneficial for your hair restoration efforts.

Hair Loss Treatments in La Mesa, CA

At San Diego Aesthetics & Med Spa, a small, woman-owned business located in La Mesa, CA, we focus on delivering natural results with our hair loss treatment services. We believe in providing effective solutions that align with our patients’ wellness and aesthetic goals. If you’re ready to address your hair concerns, please reach out through our online form or call us at (619) 303-0988 to learn more.