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Hair Loss
Hair loss or
baldness (alopecia) is much more common in men than in women. The
exact cause of hair loss is not known but it is believed to involve
heredity, hormones and aging. Some drugs (used in cancer therapy)
can also cause hair loss.
Male-pattern
baldness is the most common type of hair loss affecting men. It
depends on the male hormones (androgens) and runs in a family. The
hair loss usually begins on the sides, near the front, or on the top of
the head towards the back. Hair loss can begin at any age.
Some people may have receding hairline but some can go completely bald.
Female-pattern baldness is less common. It causes the hair to thin
in the front, on the sides or on the top but seldom leads to total hair
loss.
Alopecia
areata is a condition in which hair is lost suddenly in a particular area.
The hair can grow back after a few months.
Hair loss
usually has no cure. It can be treated by hair transplantation, and
some medications such as topical minoxidil and oral drug finasteride.
However, the medications are only effective for a small percentage of
people and usually, hair growth ceases when the medications are
discontinued.
Vitamin and food
supplements for hair loss:
Vitamin B complex
Vitamin B complex is essential for healthy
hair growth. A deficiency in B vitamins is linked with hair loss.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects hair
follicles from free radical damage. It also improves blood
circulation in the scalp.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E improves scalp circulation and the
growth of hair.
Zinc
Deficiency of zinc may weaken the hair shaft.
Zinc promotes hair growth by enhancing immune function.
Essential fatty acids
EFAs have anti-inflammatory effect and prevent
dry and brittle hair. A deficiency in essential fatty acids may lead
to hair loss.
He Shou Wu (Polygoni
multiflori)
This Chinese herb is used to strengthen the
blood and the jing. It has been used to treat premature hair loss
and graying in China since the ancient time.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo is another ancient Chinese herb.
It improves blood circulation in the scalp, promotes hair growth and the
repair of damaged hair.
Topical treatment
Shampoos and conditioners
containing biotin, Aloe, vitamin C & E, jojoba oils, ginseng, He Shou Wu.
Country Life, Maxi-Hair
Nature's Plus, Ultra Hair Plus with MSM
(use code "WAN045" - get $5 off your first order)
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