Hair loss, known as hair fall, is a prevalent issue affecting men and women. Its causes include genetics, hormonal fluctuations, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. Here is an overview of hair fall and its treatment options.

Causes

Genetics: Genetics plays a major role in determining the likelihood of experiencing hair loss.

Hormonal Changes: Hair loss can result from hormonal imbalances caused by factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid issues.

Medical Conditions: Hair loss can be caused by specific medical conditions such as alopecia areata, scalp infections, and trichotillomania.

‍Medications: Certain medications used to treat conditions such as cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can lead to hair loss as a side effect.

Stress:  Both physical and emotional stress can result in temporary hair loss.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Hair loss can occur due to a deficiency in the diet's essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

Symptoms

• Increased hair shedding, noticeable on bedding, in the shower, or on hairbrushes.
• Thinning of hair, particularly on the crown of the head.
• Receding hairline or bald spots.
• Scalp itching, irritation, or inflammation.
• Changes in hair texture, such as increased brittleness or dryness.
• Sudden hair loosening, is often linked to stress or shock.
• Noticeable hair loss, such as clumps falling out.

Treatment

• Medications: Medications like minoxidil and finasteride are approved by the FDA for treating hair loss.

• Topical Treatments: Certain shampoos, conditioners, and serums containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, saw palmetto, and biotin can help enhance hair growth.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This therapy involves injecting your blood plasma into your scalp to stimulate hair follicles.

• Hair Transplant Surgery: Hair transplant surgery moves hair follicles from one part of the scalp (or body) to areas with hair loss.

• Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy can stimulate hair follicles and encourage hair growth.

• Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hair treatments can help prevent hair loss.

It is crucial to seek guidance from a dermatologist or trichologist to identify the root cause of your hair loss and create a customized treatment approach.

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What is Dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by flaking of the skin on the scalp, often accompanied by itching. It can be caused by various factors, including dry skin, sensitivity to hair care products, fungal infections, or other skin conditions.

Causes

Dry skin: A dry scalp can result in smaller, less oily flakes compared to those caused by other conditions.

Seborrheic dermatitis:  This common skin condition leads to oily, red skin covered with yellow or white scales on the scalp and other parts of the body.

Malassezia: This fungus lives on the scalp and eats the oils that hair follicles make. Too much of this fungus can cause dandruff.

Not shampooing enough: If you don't wash your hair often enough, oils and skin cells from your scalp can accumulate and lead to dandruff.

Other skin conditions: People who have psoriasis or eczema may also have dandruff.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dandruff include white, oily-looking flakes of dead skin that dot your hair and shoulders, an itchy scalp, and scaly skin, and tingling or burning sensation on your scalp. 

Treatment:‍

Medicated Shampoos: Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or coal tar can help control dandruff.‍

Antifungal Creams or Lotions: For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antifungal creams or lotions to apply to the scalp.‍

Topical Steroids: In cases of seborrheic dermatitis, topical steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.‍

Avoiding Irritants: Try to identify and avoid hair care products that may be causing irritation or allergic reactions on your scalp.‍

Healthy Hair Care Habits: Regularly shampooing and conditioning your hair, and gently brushing or combing your hair can help prevent dandruff.

If over-the-counter treatments don't help, or if your dandruff is severe or persistent, consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.