Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men & Women

Tag Archives: Hair Loss

Hair loss and thinning are common concerns affecting both men and women. At the Neiman Dermatology Building, we evaluate a variety of causes of hair loss and thinning, including androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, hormonal hair loss, scalp conditions, and medication-related shedding.

Because some forms of hair loss can progress over time, early evaluation is often important for determining the most effective treatment approach.

Woman Inspecting Hair Loss

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia or pattern hair loss is the most common cause of hair thinning in both men and women and is influenced by genetics and hormones.

Common signs include:

  • Receding hairline
  • Thinning at the crown
  • Widening of the part
  • Diffuse thinning throughout the scalp

Treatment options include:

  • Minoxidil
  • Finasteride
  • Hair transplantation

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium or stress-induced hair loss is a temporary form of hair shedding that can be caused by illness, surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss, and/or nutritional deficiencies.

Common signs include:

  • Increased shedding
  • Hair coming out excessively during brushing or washing
  • Diffuse thinning throughout the scalp

Hormonal, Nutritional, and Medical Causes

Hair thinning may also be associated with:

  • Menopause
  • Thyroid disorders
  • PCOS
  • Iron deficiency
  • Low vitamin D
  • Certain medications
  • Scalp conditions

Symptoms may include itching, burning, flaking, scalp tenderness, or progressive thinning.

When Should You Seek a Hair Loss Evaluation?

It may be time to schedule an appointment if you notice:

  • Sudden increased shedding
  • Progressive thinning
  • Bald patches
  • Receding hairline
  • Widening of the part
  • Changes in hair density

The team at the Neiman Dermatology Building provides personalized hair loss evaluations for men and women throughout Buffalo and Western New York.

Hair Health WomanWhat is Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss?

Male and female pattern hair loss is a common condition caused by genetics. It is characterized by the gradual thinning and miniaturization of hair follicles over time. In men, it usually presents as a receding hairline with well-defined bald areas. Conversely, in women, hair thinning tends to be more diffuse, affecting a broader area of the scalp and resulting in a general decrease in hair density rather than distinct bald patches.

Effective Treatment Options for Hair Loss

Navigating the challenges of hair loss can be difficult, but there are a variety of effective treatment options to help manage and improve the condition. We commonly recommend several approaches to our patients, each tailored to address specific aspects of hair loss:

  • Minoxidil. This over-the-counter topical medication is applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil works by enhancing blood flow to the hair follicles, which helps to deliver essential nutrients and oxygen necessary for hair growth. By stimulating these follicles, Minoxidil encourages the regrowth of hair and can slow the progression of hair loss.
  • Finasteride. An FDA-approved oral medication, Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride helps to slow down hair loss and promote the growth of new hair.
  • Viviscal PRO. This 100% drug-free supplement is formulated to support hair growth and enhance overall hair health. It contains a potent blend of marine protein extracts, vitamins, and minerals that nourish hair follicles and strengthen hair. Viviscal PRO is a more concentrated version of the standard Viviscal products, offering enhanced support for hair health.
  • Nutrafol. A dietary supplement designed to combat hair thinning with a unique blend of natural ingredients. Its formula includes various vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts that address factors like inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to hair loss. Nutrafol aims to improve hair health from within and promote more robust hair growth.
  • Hair Transplantation. Typically considered a last resort after other treatments have been considered or tried, hair transplantation involves the surgical removal of hair follicles from a donor site (usually the back of the scalp) that is genetically resistant to hair loss. These follicles are then transplanted to areas of thinning or baldness. Because of where the hair is harvested from, it is the only one on this list that is a permanent solution.

Male and female pattern hair loss is a common issue, but effective treatments are available. At Lisa S. Ball, FNP, we offer a range of solutions tailored to individual needs. By consulting with one of our experienced providers, you can explore these options and work towards achieving improved hair health.

Woman with good hairWhen it comes to skincare, the majority of our focus usually goes to the face, diligently cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing to maintain a healthy glow. But in our quest for flawless skin, there’s one crucial area that often gets overlooked: the scalp. Just as our face needs care and attention, so too does the skin on our scalp. Recognizing this, we adapted the proven effectiveness of the HydraFacial to target scalp health, introducing the HydraScalp exclusively available at our office.

Why the scalp?

The scalp is often subjected to the same environmental pollutants, product buildup, and oil production that can wreak havoc on our face. Considering its role as the base for hair growth, neglecting it can result in a variety of potential issues.

What is the HydraScalp? 

The HydraScalp is a one-of-a-kind treatment that utilizes the HydraFacial to effectively cleanse, stimulate, nourish, and hydrate the scalp.

What are some conditions it can help? 

With the plethora of benefits delivered, it can in turn help with scalp dryness, itchiness, dandruff, and even hair loss.

How often should treatment be done? 

Depending on your scalp, we recommend patients get the treatment once every 3-4 months.

As you can see, scalp health is so important and the HydraScalp is the perfect treatment for just that. Contact Lisa S. Ball, NP today to get a healthier, happier scalp, and unlock the key to luscious, vibrant hair from root to tip.

Viviscal PRO WomanViviscal PRO is an effective supplement that helps to nourish hair and promote existing hair growth. With a variety of high-quality ingredients, results can be seen in as little as three to six months.

Viviscal PRO Ingredients

  • Aminomar Marine Complex. This patented marine complex blend (contains fish and shellfish) provides the body with essential nutrients to nourish thinning hair and encourage hair growth.
  • Apple Extract Powder. Can help increase hair density and diameter.
  • Biotin. A vital ingredient for hair growth and structure that strengthens weakened hair.
  • Vitamin C. As an antioxidant, it is effective in protecting the hair against free radicals.
  • L-Cystine and L-Methionine. Amino acids that are essential in the formation of hair and skin correlating to improved hair growth.

How Viviscal PRO Works

  • Stage 1: Hair follicles are nourished by AminoMar and other nutrients
  • Stage 2: Thin, wispy hair is strengthened through increased nourishment
  • Stage 3: Breakage and thinning declines; growth is encouraged
  • Stage 4: Hair becomes stronger, healthier, and more vibrant from nutrients that are replenished

Things That Can Contribute to Poor Hair Health

  • Age
  • Hair treatments (bleaching, extensions, over-coloring, over-styling)
  • Heredity
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Medication
  • Poor Diet
  • Postpartum
  • Stress

Viviscal PRO Recommended Usage

For best results, take Viviscal PRO supplements twice a day for six months (one in the morning, and one at night, with food and water). At that time, take one supplement daily.

With over 25 years of research, Viviscal PRO is an effective option for men and women with all different types of hair. It is exclusively sold through medical practices, get yours today by contacting Lisa S. Ball, NP!

Thinning hair can have a variety of causes with the most common being attributed to stress, aging, or genetics. That’s why Nutrafol is the perfect option for a lot of patients because it was specifically developed to target those causes, in turn helping with hair growth.

Woman holding Nutrafol

What is Nutrafol?

Nutrafol is a natural, 100% drug-free supplement with a proprietary blend of medical-grade ingredients that address the main causes behind compromised hair health.

Who does Nutrafol work for?

It works best for mild to moderate hair thinning caused by stress, aging, and genetics. It’s also a great option for those who are simply looking for healthier hair or trying to prevent hair thinning from happening.

Which Nutrafol supplements are right for me?

There are four different types of Nutrafol supplements and each is developed for different segments of the population.

  • Nutrafol Women. Designed for women 18-44 who are experiencing signs of hair thinning.
  • Nutrafol Postpartum. Formulated for women in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding. Clinically effective, natural ingredients support whole-body recovery through vital replenishment.
  • Nutrafol Women’s Balance. For peri-and postmenopausal women (45+), targets the root causes of thinning such as hormones, genetics, stress, and medical conditions.
  • Nutrafol Men. Multi-targets the key triggers of poor hair health for men. The result is visibly thicker, fuller hair and scalp coverage (without compromising sexual performance).

How quickly will I see results?

Most patients saw improved hair growth, less shedding, and an overall improvement in just three (3) months.

As you can see, Nutrafol is a great option for all different types of people looking for visibly thicker, fuller, and stronger hair. If you would like to take control of your thinning hair contact the hair loss experts at Lisa S. Ball, FNP.

Source: Nutrafol.com

Man and woman hair loss

Male and female pattern hair loss is a common genetic condition characterized by progressive thinning and follicle miniaturization. In men, it usually presents itself with a recession of the hairline and a well-defined area of baldness. In women, it is usually more diffuse and located centrally on the top of the scalp. Although this condition can have sufferers feeling hopeless, there are some treatments that can help.

  • Minoxidil. An over-the-counter topical treatment that is clinically proven to stimulate follicles and regrow hair. Twice-a-day use yields the best results with progress being seen in 3-6 months.
  • Finasteride (Propecia). FDA-approved for men only, this oral medication prevents testosterone from converting to the hair loss causing hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone). In doing this, hair loss is effectively slowed.
  • Hair Transplantation. A procedure where hair follicles are taken from an area that is unaffected by pattern loss and moved to the thin or bald areas. Although the results are permanent, it is important to pair with minoxidil and/or finasteride to maintain any hair that was there prior to the transplant.
  • Viviscal PRO. A 100% drug-free supplement that helps promote existing hair growth. Results of thicker, fuller hair can be seen in as little as 3-6 months.
  • Nutrafol. A dietary supplement that uses a whole-body approach to address hair thinning and growth. The proprietary blend of ingredients assists in lowering DHT and reducing stress.

For most dealing with pattern hair loss, it is important to complement each of the above options for the best results. To learn more about which are best to use for your situation, contact the hair loss experts at Lisa S. Ball, NP today.

Hair loss is a common condition. So much so, that it is estimated that over 85 million Americans are affected by some form of it. That’s why with August being National Hair Loss Awareness Month, we thought of it as the perfect time to explore some typical causes.Woman Hair Loss

  • Hereditary thinning. The most common form of hair loss. Also known as androgenetic alopecia, this condition is related to family genetics.
  • Stress induced. A temporary form of hair loss that can be caused by an illness, fever, childbirth, or emotional stress.
  • Use of birth control. This can come about from the effect that they can have on the body’s hormones.
  • Postpartum. Another form of hair loss that relates to the hormones. Specifically, with the lowering levels of estrogen and progesterone that occur after giving birth.
  • Autoimmune conditions. This occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles. Most typically characterized by patches of hair loss on the scalp, more severe cases can affect the hair all over the body.
  • Nutrient deficiencies. Some of the most common deficiencies that we encounter that can correlate to hair loss are Vitamin D and Iron.
  • Thyroid diseases. Can occur when the thyroid is overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo).
  • Prescription medications. Some medications can cause temporary hair loss or even bring on the early onset of hereditary hair loss.
  • Hairstyles. This can be caused by hairstyles that put a constant strain on the hair follicles or pull at them (ex. extensions, weaves, braids, corn rows, or dreadlocks).
  • Hair products. Certain products contain ingredients that can be harmful to hair follicles leading to breakage and damage.
  • Radiation therapy for cancer treatment. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, it can be either temporary or permanent.
  • Scar from an injury or surgery. Scar tissue often has poor blood circulation and because of this, hair follicles are not provided with the necessary nutrients they need to survive.

Hair loss can be tough to deal with. If you think you may be suffering from one of the causes above, contact Lisa S. Ball, NP at the Neiman Dermatology Building today.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

With the widely successful release of Drake’s new album, ‘Certified Lover Boy’, the Canadian rapper seems to have everything going his way lately. But this was not the case in regards to his hair after a recent bout with COVID-19. He stated on his Instagram that the virus actually left him dealing with some hair loss.

“I had Covid that s— grew in weird. I had to start again 😂 it’s coming back don’t diss.”

– Drake (@champagnepapi) on Instagram

Drake Hair Loss

The most likely reason for the thinning could be attributed to a relatively common condition known as telogen effluvium. This temporary form of hair loss occurs when a stressor (ex. fever, illness, childbirth, or emotional stress) causes more hair than usual to fall out. During which, it is not unusual for large clumps of hair to come out at a time. Usually occurring about 2-3 months after the stressor event, it can last anywhere from 6-9 months. After that timeframe, the excessive shedding wanes and the hair reverts back to its previous thickness. It’s important to note, however, that if the stressor continues, so will the shedding.

So, it looks like Drake’s hair woes will be gone soon enough. If you believe that you may be experiencing telogen effluvium, contact our office today. Here at Lisa S. Ball NP, we specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the hair, skin, and nails.

A lot of female celebrities are known for thick, luscious hair, but what’s their secret? We looked into it and found out that it’s most likely attributed to hair growth supplement Viviscal.Woman hair

From Jennifer Aniston to Reese Witherspoon, a number of different celebrities use Viviscal. Gwyneth Paltrow even told Vogue that she believes in the product so much, that she wants to buy stock in the company. Aside from helping hair to grow thicker and faster, it can also help heat-damaged hair. That’s country singer Miranda Lambert’s main reason for using the product. She told Us Weekly, “Because my hair gets styled so often, I need to protect it. Viviscal vitamins help.”

Some of the ingredients of Viviscal include Biotin, Vitamin C, and Aminomar Marine Complex. The AminoMar is derived from marine protein molecules and is proven to nourish thin hair from within. This leads to stronger, healthier, and more vibrant-looking hair. Results can be seen in as little as three months after use, and at least six months to know if it is working for you.

And if you still need convincing about the product, model Molly Sims has this to say, ‘When my hair looks good, I feel good. Viviscal saved my hair and made me love it again.”

So, if you’re struggling with your hair, Viviscal may be for you! Contact our office to order it today.

With ‘stay at home’ orders in place for much of the country, many people have a lot of free time on their hands (no pun intended). This newfound free time offers the perfect opportunity for those struggling with hair loss to give minoxidil a try.

As discussed in a previous blog entry, minoxidil is a topical treatment that is used to address hair loss. There are three different formulations: solution, foam, and spray. With each of them, regular application (twice-daily) and continued use are necessary for the best results. If you do not apply it appropriately or discontinue use at any point, progress will be lost and the hair loss will begin again. Man Looking at hair

It is a common misconception that minoxidil can only be applied to the crown (back top part of the scalp). That is not true, as a number of our patients have used it on other areas of the scalp with great success (there have even been some men who have applied it to their beards). Some patients can see results as soon as 3-4 months after starting it, with full results being seen anywhere from 6 months to a year.

Again, regular twice-daily application of minoxidil is crucial to the progress and results. This is why now is the best time to start the treatment. Your extra free time will provide you with an ample opportunity to get into the routine of using it.

If you are interested in learning more about minoxidil and if it may be right for you, contact our office today. It is important to note, that if you are experiencing hair loss and do not know the cause, minoxidil may not help.