Health Information

May 15, 2007

Male Hair Loss Treatment

Filed under: Hair Loss

There are many potential causes of hair loss in men, including disease, nutritional deficiency, hormone imbalances, and stress. Male hair loss is not always attributable to just one cause, but often results from a combination of several of these factors. Hair loss treatments that are aimed at one particular factor may be less effective in the presence of additional hair loss factors. The most common cause of male hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. The factors involved in androgenetic alopecia are:

    * A genetic propensity for balding and thinning hair
    * Age
    * The presence of male hormones (called androgens) in the scalp

Alopecia is simply the medical term for hair loss. Androgenetic refers to a genetic predisposition to balding, one that typically becomes more noticeable and pronounced with age. The influence of androgens such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a major part in this type of hair loss. Age and genetics cannot be changed, so many hair loss products are aimed at the third factor; addressing the presence of androgens in the scalp. Most successful hair loss treatments, particularly prescription hair loss medications, are typically targeted at reducing the presence of DHT in the scalp, or blocking the formation of DHT that leads to male hair loss. Prescription hair loss treatments are targeted at one phase of DHT, the production of it as a byproduct of the male androgen testosterone. These prescription hair loss treatments can also interfere with testosterone however, in addition to treating hair loss.

Procerin uses only all-natural DHT blockers to block the transformation of testosterone into DHT. No sexual side effects are present, because these DHT blockers do not interfere with testosterone, like most prescription hair loss treatments do. Procerin also includes herbal and mineral ingredients that aid the body in reducing the levels of harmful DHT in the scalp. Procerin provides proven DHT blockers, as well as vitamins and minerals critical to maintaining existing hair in one easy to use hair loss treatment.

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Sudha is an internet marketer and enjoys writing on various subjects. Reach him at Ani SEO Firm.

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Getting a Hair Transplant in Thailand - The Good and the Bad

Filed under: Hair Loss

It is commonly knowledge that many people travel to Thailand to been seen for plastic surgery and for hair transplant procedures. They are known for providing the very best in medical care so they are leading the industry in these areas. However, there are some good and bad issues to be aware of before you head off to Thailand.

Since Thailand offers such amazing health care services, they offer surgeons who have trained in Europe or North America. They are certified in specialty areas including hair transplants. Many of them belong to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons. They offer the same types of hair transplant procedures as the United States. You can choose from FUE, micro or mini transplants, FUT, or a combination to get the best results. Thailand surgeons do take on other procedures that many United States surgeons don’t including beard transplants and body hair construction.

The process of scheduling a hair transplant in Thailand is very simple. You can fill out the paperwork and then soon be scheduled for the surgery. You won’t have to wait for weeks or months as you do in North America. Probably the most common reason individuals choose to have their hair transplant done in Thailand is the difference in the cost. Almost all insurance companies refuse to cover such procedures so the individual has to pay it on their own.

The cost in the United States ranges from $2,500 up to $10,000 depending on the procedure and the number of grafts to complete. If you chose to do it in Thailand, you can cover the surgery, your travel including hotel and still be saving a considerable amount of money. Many people choose to schedule a vacation in Thailand prior to the hair transplant as an added bonus.

The largest drawback to getting a hair transplant in Thailand is the distance you are from the surgeon should you experience any complications. It will be hard to schedule another trip so soon to see them if you need to. Most people are willing to take that chance though because hair transplants and cosmetic surgeries are safe, easy, and cost less than in the United States. If you decide to do this, make sure you take the time to do a reference check on the surgeon, get any questions you have answered before you schedule the procedure, and talk to others who have used that same surgeon. Try to schedule some vacation time in Thailand as well!

You can also find more information on loss treatment products and hair restoration. MedicalHairTransplantation.org is a comprehensive resource to help individuals with hair loss identify treatment options such as hair transplant.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Wellsworth

Hair Loss Baldness Treatment

Filed under: Hair Loss

Female pattern baldness is a critical problem for several women, especially the ones who have achieved a certain age. When affected, these women go for various hair loss baldness treatment procedures.

When are you likely to have female pattern baldness?
You can have this problem anytime, even if you are at your teens. However, normally it is seen after menopause.

Reasons causing female pattern baldness
There are various reasons that trigger female pattern baldness. They include heredity factors, hormonal imbalance, some medication, some disease, etc.

Androgenetic alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of female pattern baldness. If affected by it, you will experience thinning of hair over the top and front of your head.

The hair loss baldness treatment products
The various hair baldness treatment products you may find useful include the following –

Minoxidil – Minoxidil is a popular hair baldness treatment product. It plays a key role in hair loss baldness treatment for women.

Hormonal replacement pills – There are certain hormonal replacement pills that effectively counter hair loss after menopause.

Some other non-surgical hair baldness treatment techniques include weaving or extending. Apart from that there are cosmetic options for making your hair look fuller. Several women use perms and dyes to hide their hair loss.

Some hair salons can be very helpful for you in covering hair loss. These hair salons are expert in giving your hair a better and natural look.

Surgical methods for hair loss baldness treatment – In general women opt for surgical treatment in the case of hair loss. Hair transplantation is a fruitful method. The follicular unit and minigraft techniques of hair transplantation deliver great results.

The hair transplantation method
The hair transplantation treatment entails hair grafts removal from body parts having hair growth, and placing those grafts on the parts of scalp with no hair growth.

The method might have some side effects in the form of infection, donor area scarring, modest skin infection, etc.

This surgery technique includes multiple sessions. Naturally it is expensive. However it delivers good results and that too for a long term.

Certain points that you should remember
You must go for hair loss baldness treatment only after proper diagnosis of your problem. Hair transplantation can be your option only after you have explored all other options. You should never go for it to solve normal temporary hair loss. It is the hair baldness treatment aimed precisely at permanent hair loss.

Author info: - Cynthia Jones is an expert on Female Pattern Baldness. She has written a number of articles on Hair Loss Baldness Treatment. She has also participated in various TV and radio discussions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cynthia_Jones

Hair Loss Treatments

Filed under: Hair Loss

Options In Hair Loss Treatments: How to Choose the Best Treatment for You Hair loss or alopecia if you prefer can occur in both men and women for a variety of reasons. Genetics, hormones and some medications can all contribute to this particular condition. If you are suddenly noticing bald patches or that your hair is thinning and coming off in clumps, it may be time to start to consider your options in hair loss treatments. The good news for this is that there are many ways to combat it. There are topical solutions, medications and some surgical procedures that can be done to help your alopecia. If you are considering to pursue a hair loss treatment, the first thing you need to do is to visit your doctor and get an examination and guidance as to which of the many hair loss treatments is the best for you.

There are lots of hair loss treatments available, there are the ones such as Rogaine and Nourkrin to name just two. Rogaine contains minoxidil in either a two or a five percent solution. Minoxidil can be rubbed into the scalp to stop any current hair loss, and in some cases can actually regrow the hair. This type of treatment only works when it is used consistently, which means that once product use has ceased hair loss will again resume. Nourkrin is a natural treatment that is backed by celebrities and is FDA approved, making it the leading brand for hair loss.

Medications

Medications such as Finasteride, which is also known as Procerin is an oral medication that is used as a hair loss treatment for men only. This product works by inhibiting the hormone DHT, which is known to shrink the hair follicles by turning testosterone into the hormone DHT. This medication has to be taken continuously, as ceasing taking this will result in the process of hair loss resuming. Procerin has not approved for women and can actually be dangerous for the unborn child of a pregnant woman.

Surgery Hair Loss Treatments

There are two main types of surgery hair loss treatments, and these include hair transplants and scalp reduction. A combination of these two treatments is often done to maximize the results. Surgery hair loss treatments can be a painful process that have some risks associated with them. The decision of surgery should be thought of very carefully. If you are concerned about the thinning of the hair, talk to your doctor today and find out about the appropriate hair loss treatments available to you.

There is now a product on the market that can be used at home that doesn’t cost a fortune like the laser treatments that are available. This is the Laser Comb, which is also FDA approved and has been proven to help many people achieve thickening of the hair and some hair growth.

If you are looking for the best hair loss treatments you should stop by my best hair loss treatments review site at http://www.best-hair-loss-product-reviews.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wesley_McDermott

Postpartum Alopecia

Filed under: Hair Loss

Childbirth can be a stressful time and for some women it can result in a temporary hair loss condition called postpartum alopecia (also known as postnatal alopecia). The condition usually starts around two to three months after childbirth, gradually worsening for up to three months then recovering over the next three months until hair starts to re-grow. Postpartum alopecia is characterized as a general thinning (also known as diffuse thinning) over the whole scalp. This is unlike male pattern hair loss where the hairline recedes and a completely bald patch appears on the top of the scalp. Postpartum Alopecia can affect up to 90% of all mothers and the extent of hair loss can vary considerably from mild to excessive shedding.

Why does it occur?

The exact cause of postpartum alopecia is still not fully understood but it is linked to the hormonal changes that occur during childbirth. During pregnancy there are increased levels of estrogen in the body which keeps the hair in the anagen growing phase resulting in temporarily thicker hair. After childbirth a withdrawal of estrogen switches off the extended growing phase and switches the hair to the catagen shedding phase resulting in the sudden excessive hair loss. It has been suggested that modern lifestyles and poor nutrition are a major factor for postpartum alopecia, but research has shown that these factors do not play a part in this condition.

Can it be treated?

Since postpartum alopecia is a temporary condition where the hair fully recovers there are few effective treatments available. You can consult with you local GP for advice but you will probably be advised that there is nothing to worry about due to it being part of the natural postpartum process. The best that can be done is to try not to exacerbate the condition so that no more hair loss than necessary occurs. To help maintain your hair during this period you should try and avoid hair styles with plaits, pigtails, braids and using tight hair rollers that tend to pull the hair. Also avoid using hot blow dryers and heated hair strengtheners as these can also put excessive stress on the hair. After washing always try to pat the hair dry with a good quality bath towel, hair is always more fragile when wet so try not to rub the hair vigorously.

Eating a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables can also play an important part in trying to maintain the hair. Fruit and vegetables contain flavonoids which are thought to encourage stronger hair growth by strengthening the small blood vessels supplying the hair follicles. Diet supplements are also known to help with hair growth and these can be used to help treat postpartum alopecia. The most effective vitamin supplements are Biotin, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Zinc and these are readily available in multivitamin capsules. Finally there are a range of hair loss shampoos that may help to reduce hair loss in some cases but these are not generally guaranteed to help with postpartum alopecia.

The most important thing to remember about postpartum alopecia is try not to worry too much, it is only a temporary condition and it will eventually stop.

Please visit our web site for more information about the causes of alopecia

John Tulley has written many articles on the subject of hair loss treatments and remedies. To read further articles by John Tulley click here: Hair Loss Articles. To download a free copy of John Tulleys’ brand new e-book, "Hair Loss Treatments: How to Stop Hair Loss and Regrow Your Hair!", click here: http://www.alpha7haircare.com

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Hair Loss Reasons Revealed

Filed under: Hair Loss

How many times have you read about reasons for hair loss? I bet you’ve read so many that your head is spinning. Who is right and who is wrong and what is probable? Answers to these questions come in different angles depending on who you talk too. Even in the professional community, answers to these questions vary from one specialist to another. I will categorize some of the common reasons of hair loss and detailing one opinion. I will identify some of the drugs that promote hair loss and also some psychological reasons why it happens to persons like yourself.

This article will discuss the wide array of opinions that surround hair loss and what you need to do in order to get an answer.

The major categories of hair loss will be revealed in the following statements.

Having different institutions of study pinning down the real reason for hair loss is almost an impossibility. Just like 2 doctors may not have the same opinion about hair loss, agreement is at best debatable. But the following general categories seem to be agreed upon by most professionals.

Heredity factors can attribute to hair loss because of family ancestry.

Aging factors can also attribute to hair loss just because of us getting older. This is a fact of life we cannot deny and sometimes cannot stop.

Hormonal imbalance. This is an attribute that can happen many different ways if we don’t take care of ourselves nutritionally.

Illness and infectious diseases. What can we do to keep free from getting sick or getting a disease?

Nervous disorders. This could be attributable to an environmental change in which your circumstances are more stressful and being able to cope becomes an issue.

So considering these major categories as reasons for hair loss we will be concentrating on one of the opinions stated.

The opinion of hormonal imbalance is a popular reason for hair loss and has cause for merit once its properties are explored.

Hair loss in men as it’s related to testosterone.

So how is testosterone related to hair loss? This sounds like a far fetched idea but considering the facts you might have second thoughts about it altogether. Taking the opinion that hair loss in men is due lack of male hormones. Now these lack of male hormones can be directly linked to testosterone. When hair loss shows up in a man it is known that a lack of hormones, mainly testosterone which is related to a hormone called DHT. Now DHT is actually responsible for the hair loss that men are afflicted with. Knowing that hair loss begins with hair thinning is the reason why DHT is the culprit in this aspect of reasons. As more hairs are lost every time we shampoo or comb our hair the hormone DHT actually fills in the gaps left by the secreting hairs. Eventually after time the hair becomes finer and finer and thus starts the observation of thinning hair.

What about drugs causing hair loss?

With Americans taking a lot of prescribed medications some may actually be causing hair loss. People that are taking cholesterol medication may actually be affecting hair loss. People that that medications to combat Parkinson disease may also affect hair loss.

Some ulcer drugs and anticoagulants may also promote hair loss as a by product.

Having a primary medical condition needs to be dealt with but if hair loss does occur then a investigation on what drugs you are currently taking certainly is part of the research process for hair loss.

Hair loss as a psychological affect.

If you lead a stressful life, a typical TYPE-A personality with deadlines you have to meet everyday then that could be a core reason for your hair loss. Although it’s not appropriate to change professions just because you are starting to notice hair thinning or baldness you certainly can control yourself to circumstances. That is, constant evaluation of your reaction to the stimuli around you is about the best research you can do for yourself. Learning how to relax in stressful situations is certainly a good trait to acquire and could help you relieve your stress level which ultimately might lead to stopping your hair loss.

Having explored some different reasons why hair loss occurs and knowing that medical opinions differ just might make your own research a bit more diligent. The more information you can get about yourself, if your afflicted with hair loss, the better off you will be. Just knowing that there are a lot of questions that must be answered and that you have the answers will help immensely if you go to a medical physician about your hair loss.

There are many options available to you as a consumer to help you grow your hair back or worst case scenario to get hair piece extensions.

The choice is yours and you should investigate all avenues afforded to you.

Jim’s website helps people understand hair loss and offers discounted prescriptions for hair loss remedies.

Visit his site for more information on hair loss remedies at http://www.thehairlossfix.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Hampton

Natural Hair Loss Treatment - Does it Really Work?

Filed under: Hair Loss

Natural remedies are the latest craze for virtually every condition on the planet. With copper peptides and placenta cosmetics singing its own praises towards skin care and other forms of natural remedies, like herbal medicines curing insomnia, natural treatments are seen as a safer resort than over active medications that may intimidate. As with any other condition, hair loss also has its own arsenal of natural treatments proven to stop the production of DHT and stimulate hair growth.

Vitamin B & Zinc: Miracle Cure or Hype?
Two powerful natural treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia (the No. 1 form of hair loss caused by the genetics of DHT production) are Vitamin B6 and Zinc. Taking Zinc alone, it has been proven to slow down 5-alpha-reductases activity uniting with testosterone. When combined with Vitamin B6, it has produced illustrious effects, reducing 5-alpha-reductase to a shriveling heap with a 90% inhibition rate. Vitamin B6 is most effective when it is taken in a healthy dose of 100 mg daily. Too much of Vitamin B6 (500 mg or more a day) can cause nerve damage. Too much Zinc can cause vomiting and stomach pains, so don’t overdose in hopes of achieving George Clooney’s mane.

Herbal Extracts
Along with natural remedies massaged to the scalp and vitamins, extracts like Saw Palmetto have also left its mark. Working to reduce DHT levels in the body through 5-alpha-reductase blockage, it penetrates directly into the cell membranes to reject DHT on first sight. Although studies have not been extensive enough to warrant a conclusion, studies to see if Saw Palmetto treated DHT was performed on other types of diseases. Like Vitamin B6 and Zinc, this natural remedy is most effective when used in combination. Fortunately, side effects with saw palmetto are rare with occasionally digestive malaise possible but unlikely. The Bottom Line on Natural Hair Loss Remedies…

Natural Topical Treatments
Other natural remedies that could be used to boost hair growth are essential oils taking together like lavender, thyme, and rosemary. Applied to the scalp along with carrier oils like grape seed, studies have shown that 44% of people who used this mix showed an improvement in the regrowth of their hair. It is targeted towards alopecia areata, a form of hair loss that comes from malnutrition. Dermatologists have also sung onion juices praises, citing its effectiveness with alopecia areata. When applies, regrowth of the hair after two weeks was noticeable. Overall, 73% of people experienced hair regrowth under an onion juice regimen according to a study by the Journal of Dermatology. It is important to note that a control group was used for these experiments, which boost the claim even more.

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Diagnose your future hairline, Hair loss diagnosis, find out if you need a prevention treatment.
Find out more about Natural hair loss remedies and more available treatments

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Niss

Androgenetic Alopecia Natural Treatment

Filed under: Hair Loss

Androgenetic alopecia, better known as male pattern baldness, is the most common cause of baldness among males. No wonder that experts always take interest in studying various androgenetic alopecia cure techniques. Apart from researching on androgenetic alopecia drugs, they also take keen interests in androgenetic alopecia natural treatment.

The effectiveness of the various anti-androgenetic alopecia drugs is unquestionable. Several persons have benefited from their use. However, it does not belittle the importance of the natural treatment of the disease. Several people have successfully cured their androgenetic alopecia problem through natural treatment.

Androgenetic alopecia natural treatment

The following herbal supplements are some of the sources useful for Androgenetic alopecia natural treatment

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) – Extracts from saw palmetto berries possess fatty acids and sterols. They create a barrier for 5-Alpha-Reductase, and also decrease DHT uptake by hair follicles. Moreover, they lower down the block binding of DHT to androgen receptors. The combination of saw palmetto’s liposterolic extract and beta-sitosterol has delivered significant improvements in anti-androgen activity in various research studies.

Boarage oil – Boarage oil possesses omega-3 fatty acids. Its presence in a diet is likely to prevent hair loss. It might even promote hair re-growth.

Boarage seeds also carry gamma linoleic acid (GLA). The latter, an omega-6 fatty acid, is likely to help in androgenetic alopecia cure.

Stinging nettle (Urtica diocia) – Stinging nettle supposedly stimulates new hair growth and brings back natural hair color. A nettle root extract reportedly prevents testosterone from being converted to DHT, the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness.

Green tea extract – Green tea extracts play bar in the way of testosterone’s conversion to DHT.

Grape seeds – Grape seeds have OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidins). The latter stimulate epithelial cell growth. They also check the growth-inhibiting effect of a molecule produced by androgen affected hair follicles. Apple skin – Apple skin is another source of androgenetic alopecia’s natural treatment.

Research has proved that procyanidin therapy is a potential treatment for male pattern baldness. Apple procyanidins are known to have far reaching hair-growth promoting capacity. The skin of immature (baby) green apples is the richest known source of procyanidin.

Black cohosh - Black cohosh is able to regulate estrogen hormone levels. Therefore it may help in hair loss prevention and restoration. Black cohosh is regularly used in natural hair loss restoration formulas.

Licorice – This native European herb is a key hair loss treatment agent, thanks to its ability to regulate estrogen hormone level.

Ayurvedic antistress tea – By consuming a mixed drink of Nardostachys jatamamsi and Bacopa monnieri each day you may prevent hair loss. Moreover, it will help you in relieving your stress.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) – It is a Chinese herb with hair loss remedy qualities.

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum) – This herb can be another tool for you in countering male pattern baldness.

Cinnamon and Dragon Bone - It provides a solution for the round spots of alopecia.

Mixture of Bupleurum and Dragon Bone – It is another tool to treat round alopecia spots.

Silver and Platycodon Formula - It is another herbal supplement promoting hair growth.

So hopefully now you are convinced that the drugs in the market are not your only refuge. If you develop androgenetic alopecia, you may counter it by various herbal supplements. And some of them (green tea extract, apple skin, etc.) are easily available.

Harry Jones is a hair care specialist with specialization on countering androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness. Her most favorite area of study is androgenetic alopecia natural treatment . For more information : Male Pattern Baldness

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harry_Jones

Getting Effective Hair Transplant Treatments That Are Affordable

Filed under: Hair Loss

There are many factors that are involved with the cost of hair transplants and treatments to prevent hair loss. It will also depend on where you get it done. Some hair transplants are done in privately owned facilities and others take place in franchise hair treatment centers. The larger facilities have to charge more to cover the overhead expenses they incur, and these costs are passed onto those who seek treatment.

Take a look at the long term benefits of the hair transplant treatment compared to the cost. While there are less expensive treatments to choose from, the many not be as effective or long lasting. Therefore, it may be well worth it to invest in a more expensive alternative. You will also want to consider the number of treatments that will be necessary for a particular procedure to be complete, then take a look at the overall cost. Don’t get fooled by a low cost treatment that requires so many procedures it ends up costing you more than a few more expensive treatments.

Of course, it is important that you keep in mind that any particular procedure may not work well for you. In that case, you will have the expense of trying something else. The overall cost of the treatment is going to depend on the severity of your hair loss issues. The more time and skill involved in taking care if it, the more expensive it is going to me. Some people also have to include the cost of travel because they don’t have a hair transplant treatment provider in their area. This can end up being expensive as well as consuming a great deal of your time.

The cost of any hair transplant treatment is not cheap, generally from $2,500 to $9,000. Hair grafts cost an average of $5,000 to $10,000. While the initial price can be shocking you have to consider the how much you will pay over time for various over the counter hair loss treatments and hair pieces. They also don’t come with natural, life long effects.

You can also find more information at male pattern baldness and treatment by ayurveda.

MedicalHairTransplantation.org is a comprehensive resource to help individuals with hair loss identify treatment options such as hair transplant.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judy_Wellsworth

Preventing Hair Loss In Men

Filed under: Hair Loss

All of us lose 35 - 40 hairs everyday, the result of the three natural phases of hair growth. The first phase of hair growth is called the Anagen or Growth Phase in which a new hair is produced. Ninety percent of scalp hair is in this phase at any one time. For each hair this phase typically lasts from 3-5 years but some can last as long as ten. The second phase is called the Catagen or Transition phase which is a brief transition period between the growth and resting phases of the hair follicle. It signals the end of the growth phase of the specific hair and about 1 percent of scalp hair is in this phase, which lasts about two weeks, at any one time. The third phase is called the Telogen or Resting phase. It is the final phase in the hair cycle and lasts until the fully grown hair is shed. This hair is either shed in this phase or pushed out during the beginning of the next Anagen or Growth phase. About 10 percent of scalp hair is in this phase at any given time.

Hair loss can have a significant emotional impact on people. Abnormal hair loss is call alopecia. The most common forms are androgenic alopecia, alopecia aerata and postpartum alopecia. Alopecia also occurs as a side effect of radiation and chemotherapy treatments for cancer. Since this article is focused on preventing hair loss in men we will discuss androgenic alopecia and alopecia aerata, although they both can impact men and women. Hair loss creates many perceptions in people. Bald men can be perceived as less physically attractive, less assertive, less successful, less personally likable and older than they actually are. Men with severe hair loss can be much more preoccupied with their hair loss, make efforts to conceal or compensate for the loss and experience negative social and emotional effects.

Androgenic alopecia is also known as male pattern baldness and creates a typically horsehoe shaped fringe of hair, in women it is indicated by thinness of the hair at the crown. This affects approximately 40 million men and 20 million women in the United States. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the hair follicles are mistakenly attacked by the bodies’ immune system resulting in the sudden falling out of hair in round patches or the formation of bald spots. It can occur on the scalp and other parts of the body and is quite unpredictable. This disease affects approximately 5 million people in the United States alone.

There are a couple of myths associated with hair growth that should be dispelled. Massage will not increase hair growth and shaving, clipping and cutting the hair will not make it grow back thicker or faster. There are only two treatments which have been proven to increase hair growth and they are Minoxidial and Finasteride. Both are approved by the FDA.

Minoxidil is available for both men and women and is a topical treatment sold over the counter without a prescription. It comes in two different strengths: 2 percent and 5 percent. It is not known to have any negative side effects. Finasteride is an oral prescription medication only for men. It is more effective and convenient than Minoxidil but has possible side effects such as weight gain and loss of sexual function. Women cannot use this medication and pregnant women or women of child bearing age are warned away from it because of the strong potential for birth defects.

Hair transplants or plugs are the surgical option for treatment of hair loss. They are the most common permanent hair replacement technique. Small sections of hair, including the follicle, papilla and bulb, are moved from an area where there is a lot of hair and trasplanted into the bald area. Commonly moved from the back of the head, these bulbs grow normally in the new location. A licensed surgeon must perform this procedure and several will be required. Costs can range from. $8,000-$20,000.

If hair loss is associated with radiation or chemotherapy, you should check out Look Good…Feel Better . The site is oriented for women and is a free, national public service program. but men could pick up a few helpful tips there as well. If the hair loss is a result of Alopecia Areata then a visit to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation’s website would provide support and good information.

A good hairstylist can offer you other options to deal with hair loss. Many salons specialize in nonsurgical replacement hair systems, such as wigs, toupees, hair weaving and hair extensions. Hair weaving and extensions enhance the natural hair and can be a relatively inexpensive solution to a new look and a big boost in self-esteem. If money is an issue, visit a hair stylist school. The students need people to practice on and the cost is much less than a regular salon. Some men aren’t bothered by their baldness at all. It is also very good to note that there is a big trend toward the completely shaved head look and it is very masculine. Bald is beautiful!

Cheryl Lynne Bradley is a mother, photographer, writer, internationally respected professional Tarot reader and the President of Tarot Canada. She writes extensively on Tarot, Divination, Omens, Superstitions, Dreams and Reviews on Books, Tarot Decks and Music. Visit the Tarot Canada website and enjoy more great writing and resources. Cheryl is also a webdesign enthusiast and Missing Persons Advocate, visit Stef’s Services and Porchlight Canada for the Missing and Unidentified, two of her pet projects.

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