Hair shedding is a normal natural phenomenon. The normal shed rate is about 80 to 100 hairs a day. A greater hair loss, however, is cause for concern. Excessive hair loss affects both women and men. Although it is often associated with heredity, there are also many other factors which are involved in hair loss.

Reversible or permanent hair loss?

There are several types of hair loss. Dermatologists often classify it into temporary (reversible) or permanent (irreversible) hair loss. Reversible hair loss is primarily caused by severe infections, prolonged stress, dieting, inadequate nutrition, severe infections, side effects of medication and improper hair care. Internal factors which may also be involved in hair loss are hormonal changes related to pregnancy and deficiencies in the function of the immune system. Irreversible hair loss usually results from a gradual reduction in the number of hair follicles, from permanent weakening of activity of hair follicles, or from different skin diseases.

What measures should be taken?

It is best if excessive hair loss is identified in the early stage, so that we may quickly face the problem and undertake proper measures. It is important that hair roots are supplied with additional nutrient substances which are required for hair growth and regeneration.

Diagrammatic representation of the scalp hair cycle
* * Ellis JA, Sinclair R, Harrah SB. Androgenetic alopecia: pathogenesis and potential for therapy. Expert Rev Mol Med 2002; 19: 1–11.

Things we need to know about hair growth

Each single hair undergoes a life cycle which is divided into three phases. A healthy scalp contains about 85 to 90% of hair follicles in the growth phase. This is the longest phase and lasts for 2 to 6 years. It is followed by a transient phase which lasts for one to two weeks and is subsequently followed by a 5- to 6-weeks long rest phase. We speak about increased hair shedding when the number of hairs in the growth phase is reduced and the number of hairs in the rest phase is increased. If the growth phase is characterized by weaker and thinner hair than normally, it is more likely that such hair will fall out more quickly.

Can we stop hair loss?

In reversible hair loss the problem can be solved by finding and removing its cause. Hair growth can be stimulated and promoted by proper care. Medical treatment is necessary only in rare cases. But it is more difficult or even impossible to stop irreversible hair loss. In such cases medical treatment as well as adequate and proper care are required.

What measures should be taken?

It is best if excessive hair loss is identified in the early stage, so that we may quickly face the problem and undertake proper measures. It is important that hair roots are supplied with additional nutrient substances which are required for hair growth and regeneration.

Hair growth can be stimulated and enhanced by products for dermatological anti-hair loss care which:

1. are an additional source of energy for the hair,

2. promote its strengthening,

2. increase its resistance,

4. improve blood supply to the scalp.