The Facts on Hair Loss

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If you're one of the 99 million Americans that suffer from hereditary hair loss, listen up!

A new study -- Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow conducted by Wakefield Research -- shows that Americans consider hair one of their best features, second only to eyes. So you may find it surprising that when it comes to hair loss, most don't know the facts from fiction.

Dr. Robert Leonard, chief surgeon at Leonard Hair Transplant Associates says, "Patients ask me all the time:What is causing my hair loss? Wearing a hat? Over styling my hair? Stress?"

77% of Americans think stress causes hair loss, but doctors say that's actually not the case.

Leonard explains, "95% of all hair loss is hereditary and can come from either side of the family, so forget that long-standing myth that it only comes from your mother's side. Temporary hair loss can be caused by pregnancy and thyroid conditions, crash dieting and certain medications, but unlike hereditary hair loss, this is strictly temporary and hair will grow back on its own.

While most are in the dark about what causes hair loss, they are also confused when it comes to what can treat it.

Leonard tells us, "People think things like healthy diet, hair vitamins and hair thickening shampoos, conditioners and serums work. They might help improve hair health or make hair temporarily appear thicker, but they will not help stop hair loss or regrow hair."

Doctors say go with what is scientifically proven to work.

Leonard says, Rogaine is the is the only topical brand FDA approved to regrow hair. Men's Rogaine foam with 5% Minoxidil regrows hair in 85% of men with twice daily use after 4 months. I tell my patients it's quick and easy to apply, and then you can style your hair like you always do. Women's Rogaine with 2% Minoxidil is also available for female patients.

Other treatments include Finasteride, sold under the brand name Propecia, which is approved for men only, low level laser light therapy and transplantation. So what else can you do?

Celebrity hair stylist, Thom Priano says, "The right hair cut can make a difference. If a woman has thinning on top, I suggest cutting a heavy bang to camouflage the area and a zig-zag part with a tousled finish to hide the scalp. For men, no comb-overs! Layered cuts work best. If your hair is straight, keep it short and cropped. It your hair is curly, go for a slightly longer cut."

Priano also says look for products that add volume. They wont regrow hair-but can help make it look thicker. Of course, the right hair style will only help if there's hair to style! Most people lose 50% of their hair before they even realize it's thinning.

Dr. Leonard tells us, "If you start to notice more hair than usual on your pillow, in your brush, or in the shower drain, these are the telltale signs of significant hair loss. Act early and seek treatment for thinning hair."

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