Tag Archive for: Hair Loss

Dihydrotestosterone

FDA’s Approach & Interest in New Balding Drugs

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What is in store for the hair loss community?

FDA’s Approach & interest in new balding drugs

As we have recently observed, the powers of the FDA can be ramped to warp speed when a natural disaster occurs and thousands of lives are lost!  Certainly, grateful something lights a fire when needed.  Sadly, even though 80 million Americans were losing their hair prior to the pandemic, hair loss is still lagging with approvals. The amazing news, an outcome from the focused research and “all hands (scientist/chemists/researchers) on deck” through the pandemic, our nation is moving faster than ever before toward many amazing hopes and cures.  Wow, what wonderful news for the hair loss community.

Phase 1, 2 and recruitment of phase 3 trials are in the makings around the world and with anticipated hope we feel confident we will begin to see positive results with Clascoterone along with many others by the end of 2022

Learn more about Clascoteron along with others as you follow our blog series.  Original link is below.


Read Article Here: Clascoteron (Breezula) for Hair Loss Update!

Researcher Scaled

MTHFR = 2 Parents + Defective Genes

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MTHFR=2 parents + Defective genes

What is MTHFR?

MTHFR is a gene in the body responsible for the manufacturing of the MTHFR enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. This enzyme is necessary for methylation (an epigenetic signaling tool that cells use to lock genes in the “off” position), DNA repairs, and support of other key functions in the body. Methylation is essential to convert both folate and folic acid into an active form that can be readily used by the body. We know that folate and folic acid are important to maintaining hair health. Those with this mutation may be experiencing hair thinning or hair loss. Individuals with this mutation may also develop a folate deficiency as well.

“The benefit of recognizing MTHFR deficiency early is that you can start preventative therapy, including a high folate diet, very early in life and prevent or reduce the most severe effects,” says Fritz Roth, a professor of molecular genetics in the Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and senior author on a new study into the genetic causes of the disorder.

Their findings are published in the American Journal of Human Genetics.

There are likely thousands of variants circulating in the population whose effects on folate metabolism—and health—remain unknown. Knowing which variants impair enzyme function can help predict, and possibly prevent, the negative consequences associated with MTHFR deficiency.

Why is this important?

Methylation is essential to convert both folate and folic acid into an active form that can be readily used by the body. We know that folate and folic acid are important to maintaining hair health.

What Next?

Consider amino acid supplementation. Aminos are the building blocks of the proteins in our body and they also play a very critical role in our hair health. MTHFR is especially important for converting an amino acid called homocysteine into the amino acid methionine. Those sensitive to this mutation may also develop a higher homocysteine level, which has been linked to an increase in cardiac disease and stroke. Not a GENE you should be messing around with!

The following resources can help you learn more about this disorder: 

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/mthfr-gene-and-folic-acid.html

https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/10953/mthfr-gene-variant

If you would like to get tested for the MTHFR gene mutation and are looking for answers to your hair loss questions contact us today at 615.662.8722 or complete our consultation form online.

Seasonal Hair Shedding Loss

Why Do I Lose More Hair in the Fall?

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why do i lose more hair in the fall?

Why do we see increased loss particular times of the year? 

Is your skin dryer in cooler months?

Is your scalp more sensitive in the fall and itchy in the spring and summer?

Seasonal hair loss is REAL.  Like seasonal allergies, our bodies (and hair follicles alike) are trying to fight off allergens created by temperatures, blooming tress, and more.

Increases in hair loss at particular times of the year is not an exact science, however it appears that women suffer from this condition much more than men. Without a direct link to temperature changes, research has identified that as environment changes occur, our bodies change. During more severe cold or warm temperature changes our skin can dry or become oily. 

Ah-ha……the hair is a cellular living structure during the anagen/growing phase just as our skin is always producing and shedding!  Just as our skin stresses each season, so will our hair.

What can you do?

Check with your hair loss specialist to determine the “actual” cause of the hair loss first.  If you are in a stage of reactive (telogen/anagen effluvium)  hair loss, take a deep breath, and seek a specialist to help with a short-term aggressive treatment plan to control the shedding and help your hair follicles rebound at a faster than normal rate.  This shedding phase is more aggressive than your normal rate of hair loss thus, you will benefit from an aggressive treatment plan. 

After determining the cause, treatment should be planned accordingly. Minoxidil and Finasteride are Food and Drug Administration- (FDA) approved medical treatments for genetic hair loss. However, consider more natural treatments such as customized IV Hair Health treatments, scalp injections, stimulating scalp treatments and micro needling procedures are also among treatment options. If you are suffering from nutritional deficiencies, treatment will comprise of supplements, and IV therapy.  If your hair loss is more complex and due to hormonal disorders such as PCOS or thyroid, you’ll likely be referred to an endocrinologist to fix the root cause and it may take longer to see results.

Volumizing Treatment Smiling Woman

What is Alopecia Areata?

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What is alopecia areata?

As we discussed in our prior blog, “What is Androgenic Alopecia?”, September is Alopecia Awareness Month. Alopecia is a Latin term meaning “hair loss”, however there are four main types of alopecia: Androgenic Alopecia (AGA), Alopecia Areata (AA), Alopecia Totalis (AT), and Alopecia Universalis (AU). This month HPIHair will dive into the differences between these four types of alopecia.

Second on our list to discuss is Alopecia Areata (AA). Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes unpredictable hair loss. It is the most common form of medical alopecia.  6.8 million people in the USA and 147 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with AA according to NAAF, the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. For most people who deal with AA, their hair falls out in patches of various sizes. Alopecia Areata can affect anyone, at any age. AA typically presents itself before the age of 30. AA is not limited to just the scalp; it can be seen anywhere hair forms on the body. It can sometimes form into more aggressive types of alopecia conditions, which we will discuss in our next two blogs. 

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is a polygenic disease , meaning both parents contribute specific genes that are passed down to their child, which is very rare. Therefore, scientists believe more than just genetics play a role in causing AA and that other environmental and health factors contribute to developing this condition.

Resources and help for those dealing with AA:

NAAF was established in 1981 to offer support to individuals affected by alopecia areata. They advocate for change and fund research to find treatments or cures for all ages. NAAF provides a network of support for those dealing with AA and their families.

Epigenetic holistic testing can also be a point of entry to understanding how your health, environment, and stressors can effect AA.

Hair Loss Progression Edited

What is Androgenic Alopecia?

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what is androgenic alopecia?

Alopecia is a Latin term meaning “hair loss”, however there are four main types of alopecia: Androgenic Alopecia (AGA), Alopecia Areata (AA), Alopecia Totalis (AT), and Alopecia Universalis (AU). This month HPIHair will dive into the differences between these four types of alopecia.

The first on our list to discuss is Androgenic Alopecia, abbreviated AGA. So, what is AGA?

Andro – hormone androgen, which aids in hair growth

Genic – “genetic” meaning genes

Androgenic alopecia can affect both men and women. It is a genetic form of alopecia, also know as male pattern or female pattern baldness.

Males:

Men can begin noticing signs of AGA in their early 20s. For most males AGA presents itself as a receding hairline and/or gradual thinning of the top of the head and crown areas.

FEMALES:

Women may notice signs of AGA as early as a postpubescent age. Women and girls who develop this condition notice significant hair thinning over their entire scalp (diffused), with the majority of loss occurring in the temporal areas and the top of the head.

Options for Treatment:

Every medical condition affects each person in different ways. Hair loss is no different and may be the only symptom or one of many. If you are experiencing hair loss, genetics may indeed play a role. However, genetics are not typically the singular factor contributing to hair loss. Often there are multiple variables playing a role in hair loss and understanding the cause can be the difference between losing more hair or stopping the loss. At HPIHair every client is helped individually with a comprehensive set of options designed to fit his or her individual needs.

https://youtu.be/0QtSAaoFnPU

We Listen. We Care. We Make a Difference.

COVID-19 Hair Loss Post Recovery

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covid-19 hair loss post recovery

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some patients experience hair loss 2-3 months after recovering from COVID-19. Telogen Effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss. It increases the number of hair follicles in the telogen (shedding) phase by more than 50%. Those who experience telogen effluvium show signs 2-3 months after a traumatic event, like the COVID-19. Researchers believe the “shock” the virus has caused to the body’s immune system is causing this hair loss post recovery. The virus itself may not be causing the hair loss, but the stress and trauma it wreaks on the body is the culprit. 

Telogen Effluvium Caused By COVID-19 

Telogen effluvium is debatably the second most common form of hair loss in both men and women. Other forms of hair loss manifest in concentrated parts of the scalp. Telogen effluvium appears as a diffused thinning all over the scalp. Typically, the crown loses more hair than the sides and back of the head. The hairline is not usually impacted. Telogen effluvium does not cause total and permanent hair loss. 

Understanding TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM Hair Loss Post COVID-19

In order to understand telogen effluvium, it is best to first have a understanding of how a “normal” head of hair works. The average person has 120,000 to 150,000 strands of hair on the scalp, and sheds an average of 100 hairs a day. These hairs shed following a resting period of three to four months, after a several-year-long growth cycle is complete. Different hairs are in different stages of the growth cycle at different times. However, if you suffer from telogen effluvium a disproportionate number of hair follicles shift suddenly into the resting (catagen) stage. This usually results in the shedding of a large number of hairs within a short period of time. 

Hair Loss Causes - PandemicCauses: 

Treatment for Hair Loss Post COVID-19

The treatment for telogen effluvium can depend on the cause. Most cases of telogen effluvium can be waited out, as they will resolve themselves.

Treatment options may include:

*A multi-therapeutic approach will always be the best option to help the scalp and hair return to normal.

PepFactor Scalp

PepFactor Scalp is an advanced scalp and hair health treatment formulated with the world’s first and ONLY authentic basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) combined with Copper Peptides. This natural formulation works to offer regenerative properties for hair regrowth. Pepfactor works quicker than other growth factor or plasma treatments. This treatment stimulates collagen and heals tissue surrounding the hair follicles, which in turn improves hair and scalp health to regenerate hair. Most patients see results within the first few weeks after the first treatment. Results are best when done in a series and results may vary between individuals.  

CWB Installation Window Graphic

New Service: Hair Follicle Test: How does it work?

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Hair follicle test: how does it work?

Not getting the results you have been looking for with your current hair regimen? hair supplements? hair treatments? HPIHair‘s new Epigenetic Hair Follicle Test could be a fresh start to your hair growth journey. Do not waste any more time or another penny on another online hair care regimen. In as little as 60 minutes HPI’s hair experts will have the answers to what is truly causing your hair concerns. So how does it work?

Single Hair = Rapid Results

Our hair tells ALL…..

Hair reacts to signals from the environment that cause our emotions to manifest feelings and it responds to those feelings. For example, when some people feel fear they may notice the hair on their arms and legs to stand up. Hair strands will contain a range of signals/frequencies that have an abundance of epigenetic information. This information is extremely valuable to our daily lives, health, hair growth, hair loss, scalp condition, and overall wellbeing!

Understand Your Hair Loss

Our Hair Follicle Test all starts with four individual hairs from the nape of your head. Those hairs are then processed within 15-20 minutes. Epigenetic reports reflect in a minimum of 30+ pages, potential functionality impacts caused by Environmental Irritants such as Toxins, Electro Magnetic Impacts, Nutritional Diet, Lifestyle and Underlying Food and Gut Stressors. Each report also provides a 90 day nutritional food plan and further advice to optimize wellbeing. This report allows our hair experts to design a treatment regimen tailored to YOU specifically. The regimen may include suggested diet changes, supplements, topicals, medical treatments or a combination of things to give you the optimal hair restoration results.

Is an epigenetic Hair follicle test Right for Me?

Are You Suffering From Any of the Below:

  • Stress related hair loss
  • Dry brittle hair
  • More shedding than normal
  • Itchy, sore scalp
  • Post COVID-19 hair loss

See if a Hair Follicle Test Could Benefit You!

Ashley Neuweg with Her New Born

Post Partum Hair Loss: A Personal Story

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post partum hair loss: a personal story

Expecting a baby can be one of the most exciting (and scary) things you can experience in life. Along with the life changes, come the changes your body encounters. Some changes are good like that pregnancy glow and thicker hair. Some changes can be difficult like struggling with morning sickness and an ever-changing body image.

As a medical professional, when it comes to myself it’s like all medical knowledge goes out the window. I found myself researching about what changes I could expect from pregnancy even though I counseled pregnant women all the time about expectations. The problem is that no two pregnancies are the same. Because of that, I thought certain things didn’t apply to me, like the post-partum hair fallout.

As my pregnancy months grew I started to notice how thick my hair had gotten. I’ve had fine hair most of my life, so I loved my new found thickness. My sisters and friends had told me enjoy it while it lasts because after baby arrives the hair will fall out. I thought I was ready for what was to come. Boy, was I wrong.

I remember standing in the shower one morning thinking to myself my hair must not going to be fall out like it had for others. It’d been three months and I still had my thick hair. It was that next week when I was combing my hair and I couldn’t believe how much hair was in my comb. And it was only getting worse. When I was asked how much I was loosing, I couldn’t even say. It was handfuls and handfuls. It was shocking to see that much hair fall out. I wondered how much would I lose and when it would stop. If it would stop. And now, it all makes sense. Because of the hair cycle, shedding often does not occur until around 90 days post partum.

My shedding did slow down, but I was also proactive about the process. That’s the key: to be proactive. The minute my hair started shedding I started professional laser treatments 2-3 times per week. If you are experiencing post partum hair loss you are not alone. Here at HPIHair, we understand how hair loss can affect you and we have several tools to help slow your shedding and reverse your hair loss.

If you are experiencing post partum hair loss contact us today at 615.662.8722.

Ashley Neuweg with babyPhoto credit: Laura Janicek Photography

Autumn Seasonal Hair Loss

Seasonal Hair Loss | Does our hair shed more in the fall?

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Does our hair shed more in the fall?

Our four seasons of Hair Loss: Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn. 

For most of the world, these seasons bring about change outside, whether it in the temperature or other elements in nature.

At times these transformations are welcome, while at other times we wish they’d never take place. Seasonal Hair loss is the latter of those two emotions, similar to the ten inches of rain, constant icing of the roads, or scorching temperatures.

What is it about certain seasons, specifically Spring and Autumn?

Spring & Autumn Hair Loss and what can you do about it?

 

The sudden struggle of hair loss during spring & autumn has plagued many women for years. Studies have shown that these 2 seasons, more than the others, is a time where even the healthiest of individuals will face the pain of hair loss. This is due the life cycle of the hair follicles.

The typical cycle runs between 2-6 years, throughout there is a large portion that is constantly growing, while a small amount is considered to be ‘resting’, preparing to fall out.

For most women, the resting stage takes place in July, and then just a few months later proceeds to fall out. Although this shedding is noticeable to you, there’s no cause for concern.

Seasonal hair loss is common amongst all mammals, including us humans.

How do you avoid this unique seasonal Hair Loss change? Great question!

We highly recommend that you take the proper precautions to treat your hair. This is only possible if you know your hair and its unique needs as well.

If you’re not sure where to get started, make an appointment to meet with one of our professionals at HPIHair and learn more about your individual hair needs.

Visit us at https://hpihair.com or call 615.622.8722 for more information!

Trichophagia, Trichotillomania, Nashville, TN

BFRB Super Hero Overcomes Trichophagia

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BFRB Super hero overcomes trichophagia

The kids in our TLC community face incredible challenges with their BFRB’s (Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors). Sometimes every month, every week, every day is a challenge. And yet, our kids show such resilience and strength!

At eleven years old, Emily is one our BFRB superheroes.

She showed the first signs of hair pulling at only six months old, although her parents had not yet identified it as trichotillomania.

Emily ingested her hair after pulling, known as trichophagia which is common among hair pullers, but also dangerous. At seven, she required surgery to remove a life-threatening mass of hair from her stomach.

BRFRB Super Hero Overcomes Trichophagia

Armed with the support of her family and the resources she accessed through The TLC Foundation, Emily has overcome trichophagia.

In addition to swimming, acting, singing, and earning a first-degree black belt in tae kwon do, Emily, who still lives with trichotillomania, is determined to raise awareness about BFRB’s and encourages others to seek out help with their BFRB.

HPIHair offers hair coverage prosthetics and hair enhancements to help the BFRB community. Many of our current trichotillomania clients have good results by attaching a custom designed hair enhancement to cover the area of pulling or picking. By attaching the enhancement to the surrounding hair or scalp this precludes continued pulling in the same area causing long term damage to the hair, even complete baldness overtime.

The staff at HPIHair specializes in treatment for our BFRB friends. We have a private confidential approach to our services and are willing to help you and your family today. We are only a phone call or Facetime appointment away!

Your gift to TLC makes transformation stories like Emily’s possible. Your donations help children and families provide resources and treatment providers educated in evidence-based practices so that these children can thrive. These contributions also funds scientific research so that we will soon have more effective treatments and even a cure.

Please take a moment now to make your gift to support TLC’s youngest BFRB superheroes. To make your gift today, visit www.bfrb.org/donate.