hair loss research Archives - Miami Hair Institute

Articles Tagged with: hair loss research

PRP for Hair Loss: What You Need to Know

January 8, 2019

PRP FAQ: Will PRP Work on an Area that is Balding?

PRP for Balding Areas The reason that we offer multiple options for the treatment of hair loss is because there are multiple types of hair loss. Which hair restoration approach is best for you depends on several factors, including the nature, extent, and progression of your hair loss, the underlying reasons behind the issue, your health and medical history, and your personal hair restoration goals.

For some patients, medication or low-level laser therapy may be the best strategy. Hair transplant surgery is, of course, a popular and effective treatment. And for an increasing number of men and women, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is the choice for addressing hair loss.

One of the questions we are often asked about PRP therapy is whether it will work on areas that are balding. The answer, unfortunately, is that as wonderful and revolutionary as PRP therapy is, it may not be the best alternative for those whose hair loss has progressed to the point of significant balding.

What is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy?

Platelets, the clotting cells in our blood, also contain powerful growth and healing factors that initiate repairs and provide assistance to stem cells in damaged muscle, tendon, and ligaments. PRP therapy essentially takes these natural healing elements and supercharges them. In the context of repairing and strengthening hair follicles, PRP appears to nurture follicles with critical growth factors that take them from a dormant state (in which hair is no longer growing) to an active state (in which a normal hair growth cycle occurs).

Why PRP May Not Be The Right Approach for Balding Areas

PRP therapy works by stimulating the growth of existing hair; it does not lead to the growth of new hair. As such, it is best suited for thinning areas of the scalp where some follicles remain rather than completely bald regions where there is no hair to stimulate. The best candidates for PRP therapy are those who are in the early stages of hair loss and may have areas of “weak quality” hair growth on the scalp which the treatment can target for strengthening and increased growth. If your hair loss has advanced to the point where there are extensive bald patches, it is likely that your hair restoration physician will recommend a different treatment option for you.

Learn More About PRP and Our Other Hair Loss Treatment Options

At the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, we are committed to delivering only the newest, safest, and most effective methods of hair loss diagnosis and treatment. Platelet-rich plasma therapy is just one of many advanced hair restoration approaches we offer, and it has shown promise for men and women who wish to stimulate the growth of their natural hair.

Learn more about PRP in Miami by contacting our Institute online or calling us directly at 877-443-9070.

April 16, 2018

10 Tricks to Help Hair Appear Fuller

Fuller Hair If you want to stop your hair from thinning and take steps to restore a full, robust, and youthful-looking head of hair, the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami offers several effective surgical and non-surgical options for doing so. Our skilled hair transplant physicians can diagnose the underlying causes of your hair loss and develop a treatment program best suited to your particular needs. But short of professional treatment, here are 10 tricks you can use to make your hair appear fuller, even though such tricks may offer only temporary benefits and won’t necessarily stop your hair from thinning further:

Stop smoking. If you smoke, your heart and lungs aren’t the only parts of your body which suffer. A study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that smoking can accelerate hair loss by increasing the levels of hormones which trigger hair loss and by constricting the blood vessels which supply needed nutrients to your hair follicles.
Avoid heavy product. Heavy waxes and gels can make thinning hair look even thinner by weighing it down and making it appear flat. Add volume with products like mousse or sprays specifically designed to provide “root lift.”
Put the comb down. Try using your fingers to style your hair and add volume instead of constantly combing and brushing, which can make your hair look flat and limp.
Wash your hair. Don’t buy into the idea that washing your hair regularly can cause problems. Good regular-use shampoos – used regularly – can make your hair appear thicker, as dirty and greasy hair will appear flat on your scalp.
Use hair-thickening shampoos. The name “hair-thickening”, when used with many shampoos, is a bit deceptive. Such shampoos don’t actually thicken your hair follicles but can do a good job of making your hair temporarily appear Hair-thickening or volumizing shampoos work by artificially swelling the hair shaft and depositing a thin film of the active ingredients on your follicles. Again, such effects are temporary and cosmetic; these shampoos don’t do anything to slow or stop hair loss.
Blow-dry, but not too much. Blow-drying can add volume to your hair, but avoid using too much heat for too long as doing so can damage your hair’s natural proteins and make it brittle.
Keep the sun at bay. Sunburn damages hair follicles just as it does the skin. It makes hair fragile and brittle and causes the scalp to produce superoxide, a substance which can cause hair follicles to switch from a growth phase to a shedding phase.
Air dry. While blow-drying can also add volume, letting your hair air dry and styling with your fingers can add more texture as well.
East more soy. Recent studies suggest that a molecule produced in the intestine when soy is consumed may block the effects of the hormone which triggers hair loss.
Keep it short. It can be understandable to think that growing your hair longer would make it appear thicker, but the opposite is actually true. For men with thinning hair, a shorter cut will make your hair appear denser and keep peoples’ attention away from your thinning hair and on your face.

Schedule an Appointment for a Hair Loss Evaluation Today

At the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, our skilled physicians diagnose and treat hair loss cases that can’t be reversed at home. Through advanced hair restoration surgery techniques and alternative non-invasive treatments, we can help patients suffering with hair loss.

If you’re ready to do something about your thinning hair, contact us online or call or office directly at 305-925-0222 to receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.

February 20, 2017

New Research Reveals Over 250 Genetic Signals for Hair Loss

New Hair Loss Gene Discovered- APCDD1 While male pattern baldness affects most older men, research on genetic predisposition to baldness has been minimal – until now. In a recent study published in the journal PLOS Genetics, a Scottish research team from the University of Edinburgh found nearly 300 genetic ties to hair loss, helping identify potential chromosomal markers of male pattern baldness.

The study analyzed over 52,000 male participants between the ages of 40 and 69-years-old. This is the largest genetic report on male pattern baldness to date.

“We identified hundreds of new genetic signals,” said Saskia Hagenaars, co-lead author of the study, in a news release. “It was interesting to find that many of the genetics signals for male pattern baldness came from the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers.”

Based on the genetic variants between a discovery sample (40,000 subjects) and a target sample (12,000 subjects) that distinguished patients with no hair loss and severe hair loss, the team developed an algorithm to forecast who may develop male pattern baldness. The higher the patients genetic (polygenic) score, the more likely they were to suffer from male pattern baldness. Among participants with a sub-median score, 14 percent showed severe hair loss while 39 percent had no hair loss. Meanwhile, 58 percent of patients who scored within the top 10 percent showed moderate-to-severe hair loss.

Fig 3. Distribution of hair loss by male pattern baldness polygenic score decile in the independent sample. Source: PLOS Genetics

For the most part, the genes identified are associated with hair structure and development. These findings could support early diagnosis and better treatment of male pattern baldness in the future.

“We are still a long way from making an accurate prediction for an individual’s hair loss pattern,” said principal investigator Dr. Riccardo Marioni. “However, these results take us one step closer.”

As noted in the report, male pattern baldness affects approximately 80 percent of men by age 80. Balding can lead to substantial emotional issues, including diminished self-confidence, social isolation and depression. Past research has also linked baldness to an increased risk of prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Download and read the full study here.

Who Is Qualified to Perform a Hair Transplant Procedure?

October 31, 2016

3 Surprising Causes of Hair Loss

What is Autumn Hair Loss? Many hair loss conditions stem from genetics, particularly in cases of male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia. On the other hand, environmental and lifestyle choices can cause thinning and shedding throughout the scalp and across the body. Many of these hair loss cases are completely preventable, but diagnosing what might be promoting hair loss is key to overcoming and reversing the issue.

Consider the following three unexpected causes of hair loss:

Stress

Psychological problems do not damage your internal wellbeing alone. Stress can lead to physical problems, including weight loss, weight gain and hair loss. Overproduction of stress hormones promotes adrenal fatigue, which occurs from the overproduction of cortisol in the body. The adrenal glands release high amounts of cortisol and under produce other necessary hormones like aldosterone and androgens, resulting in thinning or balding hair. To eliminate unnecessary stress in your everyday life, stick to a routine. Get adequate sleep each night by setting a stringent bed time, even on the weekends. Exercise can also help relieve some of the mental anguish that stress causes, leaving you feeling a little lighter and brighter each day. Don’t forget to take time for yourself, whether you want to read a book, walk the dogs or relax at the beach.

Poor Diet

Vitamins and minerals are essential to ensuring the human body works correctly, including hair production. Without adequate nutrients, circulation and oxygen levels at the scalp are compromised. An unhealthy or extremely low-calorie diet may trigger temporary or long-term hair loss, so keeping track of what you choose to consume is important. Ensure you’re getting enough protein, the primary macronutrient for strong hair, through fish and low-fat chicken. Vitamin E, vitamin C and biotin work to maintain healthy strands, promoting blood circulation, delivering antioxidants and boosting strength. Furthermore, zinc, magnesium and iron are essential minerals for hormonal balance and suitable hair growth.

Illness

Sickness puts strain on the body and deters its proper functions, and hair loss or deterioration can be an early warning sign of other well-being concerns. Thyroid dysfunction, in particular, is one illness that causes follicles to shut down and results in thinning or shedding at the scalp. Lupus, an autoimmune disorder, often results in brittle or broken hairs above the forehead. Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer, can cause hair loss. Hair loss is also common in patients suffering from HIV, myotonic dystrophy, sarcoidosis and other chronic illnesses. Sometimes, hair loss can be the first clue to another more serious health problem, so keeping an eye on your scalp health betters your odds of early illness detection.

Luckily for most, hair loss is a treatable condition. For more information on re-growing hair lost by stress, illness or poor diet, contact the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami at 305-925-0222 today.

September 19, 2016

Short-Term Hair Loss Solutions

Short-term hair loss solutions Hair loss compromises self-image, confidence and emotional well-being. However, being proactive by scheduling a hair transplant, using topical treatments, taking prescription medications or undergoing low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a step in the right direction. While the aforementioned therapies are typically successful, growth does not happen overnight. In the meantime, patients have a few options to limit the appearance of hair loss while waiting for restoration treatments to take effect.

Hairpieces or Wigs

Wigs are a fun way to express your style. For hair loss patients, wigs might be necessary to keep up appearance and avoid embarrassment, depending on the individual’s sentiments about their condition. Many women spend years growing and grooming their hair long, strong and shiny, making excessive thinning especially upsetting. While wigs are typically safe, extensions, especially the temporary clip-in kind, are not recommended. These styles put excessive strain on the follicle at a time when follicle health is vital.

Keratin Hair Fibers

Hair fibers are used to conceal diffuse thinning at the root. These small particles provide instant coverage for a fast and convenient fix. After cleaning and styling hair, lightly sprinkle fibers over the thinning area. Then, lightly pat hair until the fibers blend in with your roots. Make sure to comb hair before use, as bristles can loosen the fibers from their place on your scalp.

Hats and Coverings

Many patients suffering from thinning or balding locks rely on hats to conceal their conditions. Did you know you can wear a hat to conceal hair loss while treating your condition simultaneously? With the Capillus272™, a small insert containing laser diodes is placed underneath your favorite sun or baseball cap. From there, just wear the portable, battery-powered device for 30 minutes, 3-4 times per week. Cool (and safe) laser technology nourishes inactive follicles and promotes circulation to encourage growth.

Hair loss doesn’t have to put you into hiding. With a few simple steps, camouflaging your hair loss temporarily recuperates confidence earlier and can even expedite the growth process. For more information on permanent hair loss solutions with Miami Hair, such as transplant surgery, contact us at 305-925-0222.

July 25, 2016

A Closer Look at Stem Cell Therapy for Hair Loss

Stem Cells and Hair Loss Dr. Paul Rose and Dr. Bernard Nusbaum are proud to offer a fresh, innovative and effective approach to hair loss – stem cell hair growth. While a fairly new procedure, stem cell therapy for hair loss is safe and successful. Plus, you can use this treatment in conjunction with transplant surgery, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, topical treatments such as Rogaine and low level laser therapy (LLLT) treatments.

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are the building blocks of the body; they provide instruction on how to construct new cells. The fatty tissue on the body contains a high number of stem cells applicable to hair loss treatment.

The stem cell hair loss treatment is a simple outpatient procedure with local anesthesia and a mild oral sedative. Our physicians perform a small liposuction procedure on the patient, typically on the belly or love handles for optimal results. From there, the fat is processed to isolate and concentrate stem cells. Then, our physicians inject the stem cells directly into the scalp.

The total time for the procedure depends on the individual, but extraction takes about 20 minutes total. While doctors extract stem cells from the fat, patients can wait comfortably in private rooms.

After the procedure, patients must have a family member or friend give them a ride home since driving on the sedative is illegal. You can expect to return to your normal routine the following day.

Can Stem Cells Spur Hair Growth?

In short, stem cells have been shown to assist hair growth, but clinical research is still being conducted. Because the procedure is so new, researchers are unsure of whether the hair will continue to grow or if re-treatment is necessary.

For more information on Stem Cell Hair Treatment in Miami, contact the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami at 877-443-9070. Dr. Rose and Dr. Nusbaum provide the latest in hair restoration and loss treatments, not limited to stem cell related procedures.

March 17, 2016

Garlic Treatment for Hair Loss

Is garlic treatment for hair loss effective? A Canadian team of researchers has set out to test just that, aiming to evaluate garlic pills and topical treatments as a method for treating alopecia areata among children and teenagers. A number of children under the age of 16 suffer with alopecia areata, a condition characterized by sudden and patchy hair loss. Kids and young teens are limited in treatment options, as many are not candidates for topical foams, prescription medications, or surgical hair restoration. Researchers hope an all-natural treatment, like garlic extract, may someday alleviate hair loss symptoms along with the fear and social anxiety they cause.

Investigating a Garlic Treatment for Hair Loss

Researchers in Canada hope to find a hair loss cure in garlic, a bulb-shaped plant known to have natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The new trial has been announced on ClinicalTrials.gov. The researchers write:

The investigators propose to conduct an open label, prospective cohort pilot study using topical garlic concentrate (GarlicRich) for treatment of children with Alopecia Areata. Study medication will be applied topically on affected area of the skin daily for 6 months. Follow up visits will occur monthly to access the efficacy and safety of the proposed treatment.

A full posting of this study can be viewed by visiting ClinicalTrials.gov.

Alternative Treatments for Hair Loss

Only time will tell if a garlic treatment for hair loss can help to reverse the signs of thinning, shedding, or patchy baldness. In the meantime, there are only a few treatment options for children and teenagers who have alopecia. Some of the more popular options include:

Improving diet. The body needs a balanced diet, as well as a comprehensive assortment of essential vitamins and minerals in order to grow, heal, and achieve peak performance. This is especially true for growing children and young teens. Take a moment to review the components of a healthy hair diet, and think of delicious ways to incorporate nutrient-dense foods into every meal.

Managing stress. Stress can be devastating on a mental, emotional, and physical level. Telogen effluvium and alopecia areata, specifically, have been found to trigger and/or worsen hair loss. Children and young teens are encouraged to learn stress management and coping skills at an early age to not only prevent hair loss, but to improve overall health and vitality as well. Mindfulness meditation, sketching, coloring, light exercise, and journaling are all proven outlets for mitigating the negative effects of stress.

Wearing hairpieces. In some cases, hairpieces are the best solution for children and teenagers who suffer with various forms of alopecia.

This news article has been published by the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. Readers are welcomed to contact us online, or call our clinic directly at 305-925-0222.

July 28, 2015

Researchers Succeed in Generating Hair from Embryonic Stem Cells

As advances continue to spur in the hair growth research industry, a new, potentially break through procedure could be in the near future. Embryonic stem cells, often used to produce specialized cells to understand the cause and treatment of diseases, have been shown to regrow hair on bald skin in laboratory mice.

The Study Explained

A team of researchers led by Alexey Tersikikh, PhD, conducted a transplant of human pluripotent stem cells (HPSCs) onto laboratory mice. These stem cells successfully generated into dermal papilla cells, allowing the mice to grow new hair.

The dermal papilla-like cells from the embryos were similar to adult human dermal papilla cells, and were able to encourage hair follicle formation in these test subjects. When human dermal papilla cells are cultured, they lose their ability to initiate follicle growth, so the embryonic cells are a potential workaround for this short falling.

“We have developed a method using human pluripotent stem cells to create new cells capable of initiating human hair growth,” said Alexey Terskikh, Ph.D., associate professor in the Development, Aging and Regeneration Program at Sanford-Burnham. (i)

The reason embryonic treatment works is due to their ability to generate and induce dermal papilla-like cells. The dermal papilla is a cluster of cells located at the base of the hair follicle. While most hair loss specialists understand the dermal papilla role in hair growth, the details of how and why are still a point of research for many in the field. Now that we are able to see exactly how stem cells grow hair, advanced procedures might be on the horizon. Not only does this help those who aren’t candidates for transplants due to diffuse hair loss patterns, but embryonic stem cells may be able to restore dermal papilla cells in patients suffering from burned or damaged follicles that no longer have the ability to grow hair.

Are Embryonic Stem Cells the Future of Hair Restoration?

Approximately 40 million men and 21 million women in the United States suffer from hair loss, so any advancement in hair restoration research provides hope to those suffering. While this new discovery can help the millions of people who aren’t candidates for hair transplant surgery, we will have to wait and see when and how this breakthrough procedure becomes a part of the hair restoration industry.

For now, there are other options available for those suffering from hair loss. Hair transplants, as previously mentioned, provide excellent and permanent results in patients suffering from patterned baldness. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) caps and in-office domes are also viable supplements or stand alone treatments for most hair loss sufferers.

For more information about hair restoration, contact Miami Hair to discuss the treatments available today. Fill out our hair transplant candidacy form to expedite your answers on whether or not you can successfully undergo the surgery. For assistance and additional information, contact a hair loss specialist directly at 305-925-0222.

Sources:

http://www.cnet.com/news/stem-cell-grown-hair-could-help-those-with-hair-loss/

Gnedeva K, Vorotelyak E, Cimadamore F, Cattarossi G, Giusto E, Terskikh VV, et al. (2015) Derivation of Hair-Inducing Cell from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. PLoS ONE 10(1): e0116892. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0116892

July 16, 2015

Is Hair Loss a Side Effect of Smoking?

Lung cancer is usually the first side effect that comes to mind when considering the harms of smoking cigarettes. But lung cancer isn’t the only problem associated with smoking; stroke, brain damage, tooth decay, cataracts, loss of smell and taste, and other cancers affecting the nose, lip, tongue, and mouth are also potential internal ailments following long-term smoking. Consider also the external side effects of smoking, which include premature aging, skin damage, and hair loss.

The Prevalence of Smoking in America

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tobacco is the largest preventable cause of death and disease in the United States (i). More than 480,000 deaths are caused by smoking each year in America, with more than 41,000 attributed to the inhalation of secondhand smoke.

Even though it’s been widely advertised as a harmful and potentially deadly habit, 17.8 percent of U.S. adults still smoke cigarettes. About 76% of those, or about 32 million, continue to smoke everyday, significantly increasing their risk for tobacco-related diseases.

Smoking and Hair Loss

Inhaling cigarette smoke exposes the human body to over 4,000 chemicals, including 43 known carcinogenic compounds. Nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, arsenic, and DDT are all present in some of the biggest tobacco brands. Given the high exposure to such toxins, the body reacts in a variety of different ways to tobacco inhalation.

Here are the top four reasons smoking causes hair loss:

Smoking reduces circulation to the scalp, which inhibits follicle revitalization and hair growth.

Smoking cigarettes pollutes the blood with toxins that target your body’s natural cycles.

According to the Department of Dermatology at the University Hospital of Zurich in Switzerland, cigarettes may disrupt function of hair follicle (ii).

Oxidative stress caused by cigarette smoking is also tied to hair loss. Free radicals from smoking cause damage at the cellular level, decrease cell motility, and increase cell senescence, which is used to describe a live, but inactive cell that can no longer divide and proliferate. The aforementioned processes are all necessary for hair regrowth, and a lack of oxygen caused by smoking deters them.

Preventing Hair Loss from Smoking

If you are a smoker, quitting will not only help you maintain a full head of hair, but also allow your body to continue its natural biological processes without toxic disruption. You’ll be doing your internal organs, skin, hair follicles, and stress levels a favor by cutting out nicotine and tobacco products before they have the chance to take hold of your health.

Within just 20 minutes of quitting smoking, your blood pressure, pulse rate and temperature return to normal levels. In 48 hours, damaged nerve endings caused by smoking begin to regrow, along with a heightened sense of smell and taste. In one year, your risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart attack are less than half of a nonsmoker, and in 20 years you are at the same risk of lung disease and cancers as an individual who has never smoked at all.

Quit Smoking Today

If you want to quit smoking but lack the resources, many advocacy groups like Tobacco Free Florida help residents statewide access the tools to cease their tobacco habits, regardless of socioeconomic status. They offer a toll-free “quitline” at 1-877-U-CAN-NOW (1-877-822-6669), where smokers can speak to a Quit Coach who develops a plan toward your smoke-free lifestyle. You can also receive in-person coaching at one of their locations or speak to a representative online. Tobacco Free Florida’s services are free, allowing everyone willing to take the path toward health the chance to get involved.

Treating Hair Loss from Smoking

Although your internal health greatly improves the longer you’ve been a non-smoker, some side effects don’t reverse back to normal without outside help. If you’re suffering from hair loss as a side effect from long-term tobacco use, consider hair restoration treatment(s).

Topical treatments, prescription medications, hair transplant surgery, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices are all viable treatments for smoking-induced hair loss. To receive a personalized plan, contact the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami. Our expert surgeons can help you diminish hair damage and thinning after smoking, allowing you to feel just as fresh and revitalized on the outside as you do on the inside.

Don’t let your appearance reflect unhealthy choices from the past. Contact Miami Hair at (877) 443-9070 or email drnusbaum@miamihair.com for your personalized treatment program.

Sources:

(i) http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/resources/data/cigarette-smoking-in-united-states.html

(ii) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12673073

July 6, 2015

How Thyroid Disease May Cause Hair Loss

Hair health, fullness, and sheen are often indicators of the body’s internal wellness. Many diseases, conditions, and subsequent treatments trigger hair loss or dull, breaking strands. Two of those conditions are hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. While they are complete opposite in terms of their issues – one is an overproduction while the other is an underproduction of hormones – they share a common symptom: hair loss.

If you suffer from a thyroid disorder and are currently experiencing hair loss or balding, knowing why and the steps you can take to combat this unfortunate side effect is important.

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a gland that releases a steady amount of hormones in the body. It’s pertinent to proper metabolic functions, growth, and development. The thyroid is located just below your voice box on the front of your neck. It is shaped somewhat like a butterfly with two lobes on each side connected in the center by a thin tissue. The thyroid stores hormones in small droplets within it’s vesicles, or follicles.

What does it do?

The thyroid is responsible for the production of three key hormones: T3 (also known as triiodothyronine), T4 (also known as Tetreaiodothyronine), and Calcitonin. T3 and T4 are both made up mainly of iodine.

Being the main component of two thyroid hormones, the thyroid requires iodine to function properly. Usually, the body absorbs iodine through the intestine and enters the blood stream. Then, it’s transferred to the thyroid gland to build T3 and T4. The body cannot produce iodine on it’s own since it’s a trace element.

One reason for an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is a lack of iodine. Other potential causes are genetics, age, Hasimoto’s thyroiditis, and various medications. Under-activity usually develops over time, rendering it hard to notice. The symptoms are weight gain, slowed metabolism, loss of energy, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, slow pulse, constipation, and hair loss. Many patients with an underactive thyroid assume their symptoms are part of the aging process, rather than a serious hormonal condition.

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, occurs from an overproduction of hormones in the thyroid gland. Energy metabolism speeds up and overactive thyroids lead to hot flashes, trembling, insomnia, racing heart, fatigue, diarrhea, weight loss, and hair loss.

Autoimmune diseases, issues with the thyroid axis, or autonomy from the pituitary gland are the three main causes of an overactive thyroid. The pituitary gland is responsible for regulating the amount of thyroid hormone produced, and a lack of communication between the two can cause overproduction.

Why does a dysfunctional thyroid lead to hair loss?

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss. First, overactive thyroids sometimes lead to an increased development of DHT. DHT influences the development of sexual organs and secondary sexual characteristics, including physical appearance. But too much DHT can cause hair follicle shrinkage or elimination, resulting in shedding or thinning hair. Therefore, when an overactive thyroid impairs the production of DHT from testosterone, balding occurs.

For patients currently prescribed medication for an underactive thyroid, it’s important to note the side effects. One of the most common treatments is levothyroxine sodium, which also goes by the brand names Synthroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid, and Unithroid. Sythroid specifically has been shown to cause long-term hair loss in patients.

How to treat thyroid-related hair loss

Whether you’re suffering from hair loss due to a hormonal imbalance from hypothyroidism or your thyroid medication is causing your hair loss, you have options for treatment.

First, many individuals take additional medication to offset the hair loss from their current thyroid medication. Results vary since medication affects every individual differently, but make sure to consult your physician prior to adding or subtracting from your current regimen.

Hair transplant surgery is another treatment option known to deliver consistent results. Given the advances in hair transplants, such as the Follicular Isolation Technique (FIT) developed by Dr. Paul Rose, transplants are more naturally looking than ever. Using FIT, Dr. Rose extracts individual follicles from donor areas and moves them to balding areas with little scarring. Follicular Unit Transplantations (FUT) is a more traditional approach offered by many restoration experts, including the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami.

Many individuals aren’t candidates for additional medication or hair transplant surgery after suffering from thyroid-related hair loss. Low-level laser therapy, or LLLT, uses safe lasers to stimulate hair follicles. At-home laser caps can be worn underneath virtually any hat or covering.

Learn More About Hair Loss Treatment in Miami

If you’re suffering from hair loss related to an underactive or overactive thyroid, the Hair Transplant Institute can help. We offer a variety of treatment options, customized to individual conditions, to revert this unfortunate side effect of thyroid dysfunction. Visit Miami Hair online, or contact our institute at 305-925-0222 to learn more about our personalized approach to hair loss diagnosis and treatment.

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