CIGARETTE & SMOKING

Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of numerous health problems and diseases, such as blood clots, heart disease, and cancer. Now, recent medical research has discovered a link between smoking and increased instances of hair loss.

New Evidence Points to a Correlation Between Smoking and Increased Hair Loss

Scientists in Taiwan recently completed a study involving 740 men who were suffering from premature hair loss or alopecia. Both smokers and non-smokers were enrolled in the study and the findings point to a significant correlation between moderate smoking and hair loss.

According to recent findings, men who smoke 20 or more cigarettes per day have a greater chance of developing baldness. These findings were determined after taking into consideration family history of baldness, general health, age, and other habits

How Smoking Cigarettes May Increase Baldness

Although an exact relationship between cigarette smoking and hair loss is yet to be found evidence points to a disruption in circulation as a potential cause. For the hair follicle to function at optimal levels and produce hair growth at the normal rate the cells must receive adequate amounts of oxygen, nutrients, and minerals. Cigarette smoking has been shown to cause poor total body circulation, which can affect the amount of blood flow available to the hair follicles of the scalp. More specifically, scientists believe that smoking may actually disrupt or damage the circulation system that is responsible for delivering blood to the actual cells of the hair follicle

Another theory as to why smoking may increase the occurrence of hair loss is based on general health concerns. Smoking causes many illnesses and diseases, which can impair the functioning of other body systems. When the body is not healthy the organs do not function properly. Without properly functioning internal organs poisons, infections, bacteria, and other disease-causing substances are free to circulate throughout the body. These unwanted substances could further inhibit the hair follicle's ability to maintain the normal hair growth pattern.

Smoking has also been shown to accelerate the aging process and hair loss is often a symptom of aging. Smokers already know that they face an increased risk of developing wrinkles, facial discolorations, and grey hair. Recent medical findings suggest that premature hair loss could also be added to the list of accelerated aging symptoms seen primarily in smokers.

How to Prevent Smoking-induced Hair Loss

The most effective way to avoid hair loss caused by cigarette smoking is to stop smoking. If you have previously tried to quit smoking without positive results you should consult with your doctor to discuss ways to help you kick the habit. Many oral medications, patches, gum, and creams are available to help smokers beat their nicotine addiction and stay smoke free.

Once you have stopped smoking, or even while you are in the processes of quitting, you can help fight the affects of smoking on hair loss by getting adequate amounts of cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise, exercise that increases the heart rate, helps boost poor circulation. Strive to get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise at least five times a week in order to strengthen your heart and increase blood circulation.

HOME::Health-and-Fitness/Hair-Loss X Smoking And Hair Loss - Is There A Connection?

Before considering the question of whether smoking and hair loss are connected, it is important to get a little understanding of what goes on in the hair follicles, the tiny little factories responsible for hair growth.

What's Happening In The Hair Follicle

The bulb shaped dermal papilla located at the bottom of the hair follicle creates new cells which push upwards forcing older cells even higher. When these cells get to the middle of the hair follicle they die and harden and begin to form a central core which eventually becomes a new hair shaft.

On what is the dermal papilla dependent in order to keep up the production of new cells? A healthy blood supply. The hair follicle is fed by a network of tiny blood vessels which provide the needed oxygen and nutrients necessary for hair growth.

Smoking And Blood Circulation

Now back to the question of smoking and hair loss. What effect does smoking have on the blood supply and the circulatory system?

Here is a short list:

• Nicotine causes an increase in adrenaline which in turn increases blood pressure and suddenly makes the heart beat faster.
• Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict which in turn makes it harder for the heart to pump blood through the arteries which in turn impacts the blood circulatory system.
• Smoking produces carbon monoxide which inhibits the blood's capacity to carry oxygen.

Seeing a healthy scalp and healthy hair follicles are so dependent on a rich supply of oxygenated blood which can deliver all the proteins and nutrients needed for new hair growth, it is only reasonable to conclude smoking and hair loss can be connected.

Of course, every individual is different and will respond in a different way to foods, substances, drugs and medications. However, as a general rule, smoking can be seen to have a negative effect on hair growth.

Learning From Mice

Interestingly, a report published in the National Library of Medicine from the Section of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy, indicated a connection between smoking and hair loss with tests carried out on mice.

After 3 months of exposure to cigarette smoke, most of the mice developed areas of alopecia and grey hair. The report stated: "Smoke-exposed mice had extensive atrophy of the epidermis, reduced thickness of the subcutaneous tissue, and scarcity of hair follicles."

So if hair loss is causing you anxiety and you are a smoker, you owe it to yourself to take definite steps to stop smoking as soon as possible. (See resource box below for free online guide)

The Whole Body Approach

Of course, smoking and hair loss is just one part of the story. Combating hair loss involves a number of other factors too such as diet, nutrition, exercise and proper breathing.

In his ebook "Hair Loss No More" leading hair loss analyst Jonathon E. Phillips sets out a plan which includes all the factors mentioned above in order to stop hair loss and promote new hair growth.

He strongly discourages smoking in view of the impact it has on the body's circulatory system and gives detailed instructions on how to train the body to breathe properly while doing rudimentary exercises that can make a huge difference, not only to one's general sense of well-being, but especially to the health and condition of the scalp and hair follicles. (See resource box below for more information on this 168 page guide on hair loss)

While there will always be those who contest whether smoking is really damaging to the health, despite the weight of evidence to now support that conclusion, anyone concerned about hair loss surely needs to consider this matter seriously.

From the evidence available it appears there is definitely a connection between smoking and hair loss. In your strategy to cope with hair loss and improve the condition of your head hair, be sure to include a 'Quite Smoking' program if you are a tobacco user.

Revivogen: The Hair Loss Treatment and Solution for Thinning Hair

Revivogen: The Hair Loss Treatment and Solution for Thinning Hair Revivogen® is an all-natural, dermatologist-formulated solution to help slow thinning hair in both men and women. Revivogen was developed by board-certified dermatologist Alex Khadavi, MD, using nature's most powerful ingredients that have been scientifically proven to help stop DHT - the actual cause of hair loss. Revivogen: Safely and effectively helps with thinning hair as well as actual hair loss in men and women Helps stop hair loss and stimulates healthy hair growth so you can grow new hair Promotes thicker, fuller, healthier hair from the follicle out An effective remedy for male and female pattern baldness No side effects If you're tired of thinning hair and are looking for the best hair loss product on the market today, try Revivogen. It's one of the safest and most powerful natural anti-DHT hair loss solutions available, and it is a natural alternative to pharmaceutical hair loss treatment products. Buy now with our 90-day money-back satisfaction guarantee and begin your treatment today. Revivogen is your source for information on the following topics: male hair loss, female hair loss and alopecia areata and DHT.

How do I find out if I'm a hair transplant candidate?

The only way to know if you are a candidate for hair transplant surgery is to attend a personal, in-depth hair transplant consultation. A qualified hair loss specialist can educate you on your hair transplant options and the methods of treatment. He or she can then evaluate your own personal condition, and from this, the determination will be made as to your hair transplant candidacy.

In determining your candidacy, hair loss doctors will consider:

• Number of grafts required to meet your expectations
• Density of donor hair
• Color of hair
• Skin complexion
• Texture of hair
• Future hair loss projections

8 Hair Loss Myths

Hair loss is an embarrassing condition that affects millions of Americans today. Hair loss can hit both men and women, and can be linked to a variety of causes. For years, people have done much speculating about what these causes are and, in the process, created some completely false hair loss myths to explain their thinning hair and premature balding. With continued scientific research and hair loss studies, we continue to learn more about the true mechanics and causes of hair loss. In this article, we have debunked some hair loss myths, and validated some others. Let's take a look at some of the more commonly held hair loss myths, and see which ones are accurate.

Popular Hair Loss Myths

1) Baldness is passed down from your mother's side: False

Genetic hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is considered the main cause of hair loss in women and in men. According to the Hair Loss Learning Center, genetics accounts for 95% of male hair loss. Long considered a trait inherited from our mother's side, genetic hair loss actually results from a combination of the genes from our mother's and our father's sides. So, although you can't entirely predict the future of your hairline based on your mother's or your father's scalp, you can get a good indicator from comparing the collective hairlines of your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

2) Tight hairstyles and use of hair dryers can cause hair loss: True and False

It's true that constant use of tight ponytails and cornrows, and excessive blow drying can put a lot of stress on hair follicles and cause strands to break or become damaged. In extreme cases, the tight pulling of hair over time can create minor bald patches known as traction alopecia, but the hair loss is only temporary and growth will resume when severe styling is discontinued. These hair styling habits don't create permanent hair loss because they typically don't damage the root of hair follicles underneath the scalp's surface.

3) Medications and steroids can cause hair loss: True

While medications and steroids might not cause hair loss for someone who isn't genetically predisposed to hair loss, both can exacerbate balding tendencies in someone who's genetically susceptible. Various medications such as certain anti-depressants, birth control, and antineoplastic drugs have hair loss listed as a possible side effect, but it's not guaranteed. It's best to check with your doctor right away if you notice sudden thinning hair after being put on a new medication. On the other hand, steroids have been shown to greatly increase occurrences of permanent hair loss. Anabolic steroids boost the production of the hair loss-causing hormone, DHT.

4) Stress, vitamin deficiency and illness can cause hair loss: True

While none of these symptoms are known to create permanent hair loss, they can all create significant temporary hair loss in men and women. Aside from the hair loss that can result from chemotherapy and radiation treatments, patchy hair loss called alopecia areata can result from autoimmune disorders such as thyroid disease, lupus and diabetes.

When it comes to vitamin or nutritional deficiency and intense stress, the resulting temporary hair loss is called telogen effluvium. This hair loss happens when the body experiences a shock, either from psychological stress, sudden excessive weight loss, metabolic changes, vitamin deficiencies or a virus. When one of these situations occurs, the hair is forced into the resting stage of the hair growth cycle prematurely, resulting in sudden drastic hair loss.

5) Hair loss can be prevented by frequent hair brushing or standing on your head: False

Some people have maintained that constant brushing increases scalp circulation and thus boosts hair growth. However, because alopecia is primarily caused by the presence of DHT and genetic predisposition rather than blood flow, hair brushing will have no positive effect on hair growth. Similarly, standing on your head might give you a head rush from the increased blood flow, but it won't have any effect on your hair.

6) Regular haircuts make your hair grow faster and thicker: False

Getting frequent haircuts is a good way to keep existing hair healthy by removing damaged, split ends, but haircuts have no effect on your hair's growth rate or thickness.

7) Smoking causes hair loss: True

Although this myth has been discounted in the past as being an unvalidated assumption, recent studies by research groups such as the British Medical Journal (BMJ) have found sufficient evidence to claim there is a significant link between smoking and hair loss. It's still uncertain whether the connection is due to the effects of tobacco toxins, or the fact that smoking accelerates aging and other health problems.

8) Hair loss cannot be treated: False

In the past, there were no effective treatments in sight for hair loss and hair thinning patients; the only solution was to cover up hair loss with hats and artificial hairpieces. Fortunately, there are many effective hair loss medications and treatments on today's market that can either prevent future hair loss, or replenish balding hairlines.

The most popular hair loss medications include Rogaine® (Minoxidil) and Propecia® (Finasteride). Rogaine acts as a hair growth stimulator while Propecia prevents hair loss by inhibiting DHT production and activity.

For more severe cases of balding and hair loss, hair transplant surgery is one of the newest and most effective procedures out there. Hair transplant surgery takes hairs from the back and sides of the scalp that are more resistant to balding and implants them onto thinning areas. There are also some well-known topical hair therapy treatments that are good to use in the beginning stages of hair loss.

To learn more about hair loss, or to find out which treatment method will work best for you, it's best to meet with a professional hair loss specialist in your area. They will be able to analyze your specific scalp and hair conditions, identify what type of hair loss you have, and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.

How do I know Hair Transplantation surgery will work?

Hair Transplantation Surgery

Hair Transplant Surgery has come a long way from its primitive beginnings, developing into one of the world's most trusted methods for treating baldness successfully and convincingly. During its initial rise to prominence in the '60s and '70s, Hair Transplant Surgery was still unrefined, using large hair grafts produced by round punches. This hair transplant surgery technique often led to the sparse, plugged look that many people came to associate with early hair transplantation. Fortunately, modern breakthroughs in the field of Hair Transplant Surgery led to amazing improvements in the quality of patients' results. Today, hair transplant surgeons use micro-grafts and follicular unit transplantations that are virtually indistinguishable from naturally growing hair, even by professional hairdressers.

A hair transplant procedure always begins with your own healthy donor hair. Really, hair transplant surgery is just a simple matter of hair distribution. This donor hair is located on the sides and back of the head and is naturally resistant to balding, allowing it to continue to grow throughout your lifetime. Most men suffering from standard male pattern baldness will have a healthy donor area with plenty of viable hairs for the transplant surgery. However, if your hair loss is not hereditary and is caused by other conditions such as stress or medication, you will want to see a dermatologist first before attending a hair transplant consultation.

In follicular unit hair transplantations, a small section of tissue is removed from the donor area and is broken down for surgery under intense magnification. This is where modern hair transplant surgeons show their true artistry. Follicular units grow in groups of 1-4 hairs. By keeping this composition intact, your hair transplant mimics real life. Hair transplant surgeons reproduce with micro-grafts exactly how hair grows in nature. Each hair is different and an experienced hair transplantation surgeon can make sure the hairs are transplanted in areas where they are best suited. For example, certain hair groupings belong at the hairline, while other belong at the crown of the head, knowing these differences is what makes hair transplant surgery truely successful.

Different hair transplant clinics use different methods and technology to achieve results. For your Hair Transplant Surgery, you'll want to keep in mind that you're maximizing hair growth, ensuring naturalness, and minimizing trauma to the scalp. With any hair transplant surgery there will be scars, but a good surgeon can keep that scarring to an absolute minimum, and more importantly, make it undetectable. When done correctly, your hair transplant surgery is a customized experience; it's living hair that you can style like you would before your hair loss ever happened.

Hair transplant costs vary from hair loss clinic to hair loss clinic. Finding the right hair transplant price can be just as crucial as finding the right hair transplant doctor.

How do I know Hair Transplantation surgery will work?

Hair transplant surgery has actually been around for quite awhile. For over 40 years, balding men and women have been turning to variations of this procedure, and finding successful results. However, the procedure is now better than ever. Heightened understandings of growth patterns and advancements in follicular unit grafting techniques have helped to produce remarkably natural results with hair transplant surgery. Because the newly transplanted hair is taken from a healthy patch on your own head, it will continue to grow in its natural pattern for the rest of your life, blending with the hair that is already there. Obvious hair transplants are a thing of the past!

Hair Restoration Cost

Hair transplant costs will vary from case to case. The price of transplants can vary so greatly because each patient's hair loss and expectations are unique, the only way to learn the total expense of your own surgery is through a personal consultation with a reputable hair loss specialist. There are several ways hair transplant costs are billed, a personal consultation will give you a better idea of your hair restoration costs.

Comparing Prices
The most common ways hair transplant clinics charging by the graft, by the hair and even by the session, so it can be hard to really compare hair transplantation costs. For example, price per graft means nothing unless you know how many hairs you get in a graft and the experience of the doctor. A skilled hair restoration surgeon can greatly cut down on the costs of grafts. Different hair restoration surgeons can perform a different number of micro-grafts per session, and these grafts can range in cost from $3 to $10. A final price of a smaller hair restoration procedure may wind up costing between $4,000 and $5,000, while an extensive hair transplant surgery may total out closer to $12,000. At a consultation, a specialist can break down hair restoration costs and give you a good sense of the total hair transplant price tag of your unique treatment plan.

Can you afford NOT to have a hair transplant?
As with any elective procedure, hair transplant cost comparing is an important part of the research process. However, the costs of grafts shouldn't be the sole deciding factor. Hair restoration surgery can be custom-tailored and planned out to fit each patient's individual budgetary needs. Plus, remember that hair restoration is a valuable investment, producing results that last a lifetime. Can you really put a price tag on peace of mind? When it's all said and done, most find that hair transplant costs are no where near the costs some people pay worrying about their hair loss.

REGROW YOUR HAIR WITH PROCERIN

PROCERIN FOR MEN

Procerin is an all-natural supplement available without a prescription. Procerin comes in a convenient tablet form and topical solution that are used daily for the treatment of male hair loss. Procerin is effective in reversing hair loss in men caused by androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of male hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia results in thinning hair and the familiar receding hairline seen in most cases of male hair loss.

Men suffering from androgenetic alopecia have elevated levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in their scalp. DHT is a chemical by-product of the male hormone testosterone. When testosterone gets converted to DHT in the scalp, the result is hair loss. Procerin's active ingredients are specifically formulated to block this transformation into DHT, and stop the hair loss that DHT causes.

Procerin blocks DHT without reacting with testosterone (as some prescription medications do). This can stop the further loss of hair from the scalp without the sexual side effects of prescription drugs like finasteride (Propecia). Men of all ages, and all levels of hair loss, can benefit from Procerin. Whether you are concerned about stopping hair loss before it becomes a problem, or already have significant loss of hair, Procerin can help.

Procerin's benefits are greatest for younger men (18-35), and older men whose hair is still in a growth phase. Men that still have growing hair experience an increase in hair count, and improvement hair thickness. Men often begin losing hair in their 20's, with hair loss progressing more rapidly as they age. As men get older, their hair's natural growth cycle cannot keep up with the hair loss. Procerin is most effective for those men whose hair is still growing, but have thinning hair or a receding hairline. Procerin's effectiveness for men whose hair is no longer in a growth phase is limited to retaining existing hair.

Procerin is scientifically designed to help men retain and regrow their hair, and stop hair loss in its tracks. The active ingredients are all-natural DHT inhibitors. No harsh chemicals, no messy sprays or special shampoos, and no sexual side effects. Simply use Procerin once in the morning, and once before bed. Procerin is the convenient solution to hair loss, available without a prescription. We want you to be completely satisfied with your choice to fight hair loss, so we offer an Unconditional 90-Day Money Back Guarantee. If you aren't completely satisfied with your results while taking Procerin, simply return in for a full refund. We're confident that you'll join the 88% of users who report success with Procerin!

What is male hair loss (male pattern baldness/androgenic alopecia)

What is male hair loss (male pattern baldness/androgenic alopecia)?

Male hair loss is the most common type of hair loss. It is caused by increased sensitivity to male sex hormones (androgens) in certain parts of the scalp, and is passed on from generation to generation.

In the past, baldness was often seen as something unfortunate or undesirable. However, this attitude has changed over the years and nowadays a clean-shaven head is usually considered both fashionable and attractive.

What causes male hair loss?

Some men have areas on the scalp that are very sensitive to the male sex hormones that circulate in men's blood. The hormones make the hair follicles - from which hair grows - shrink. Eventually, they become so small that they cannot replace lost hairs. The follicles are still alive, but are no longer able to perform their task.

The condition usually starts in men aged 20 to 30 and follows a typical pattern. First, a receding hairline develops, and gradually the hair on top of the head also begins to thin. Eventually, the two balding areas meet to form a typical U-shape around the back and sides of the head. The hair that remains is often finer, and does not grow as quickly as it used to.

Can male hair loss be prevented?

Male hair loss is genetically determined (passed on from parents). Although a doctor can offer medical treatment to improve the condition, this may have side effects.

What can be done at home?

You need to decide how you feel about hair loss. Male hair loss affects a large part of the male population and people react very differently to it.

It is important to try to accept hair loss for what it is - something natural. Rather than trying to camouflage bald spots with remaining hair or a wig, it is probably a better idea to leave your hair as it is, or shave it off completely. If, however, you decide to try to regain your hair, possible medical treatments are discussed below.

How is male hair loss treated?

Baldness is generally regarded as natural, and not a disease. So if a person decides they wish to try to get their hair back, they will probably have to pay for the lengthy, expensive procedure themselves.

Treatment with medication

• Minoxidil lotion (Regaine regular strength or Regaine extra strength) is applied twice daily to the scalp. Minoxidil was originally invented as a treatment for high blood pressure; the hair growth is a side effect that, in this case, has proved useful. It is not available on NHS prescription, but can be purchased over-the-counter. About 60 per cent of patients benefit from it to varying degrees and its effects start to wear off as soon as it is stopped.
• Finasteride (Propecia) is a medicine taken in tablet form that partially blocks the effects of the male hormones (an 'anti-androgen'). It is used in a higher dose to reduce the size of the prostate gland in men with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Propecia has been shown to halt further hair loss and promote re-growth of scalp hair in approximately 80 per cent of patients after three to six months. Treatment must be continued to sustain the improvement in hair growth. It is only available on private prescription and a months supply costs around £30.

Plastic surgery

Plastic surgery may be the only reliable way to replace lost hair, and techniques for restoring hair growth are constantly improving. These include:

• a transplant, where the surgeon moves non-sensitive hairs from the back of the head to the top. This is best for men whose hair loss is limited to the front of the scalp. Factors that determine whether a person is a suitable candidate include age, hair colour, the nature of hair loss, and whether the hair type is straight or curly.
• scalp reduction, a technique that is most suitable for men with a small, well-defined bald spot on the top of the head.
• flap-surgery, which involves making the part of the scalp that still contains hair larger. This is a possibility in cases of hair loss over a small area.

What Causes Hair Loss in Men & Women?

What Causes Hair Loss in Men?

Hair loss causes are very different for men and women. Normally, hair loss in men is caused by heredity, hormones, and age. Genetic makeup determines if hair follicles in men are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes them to shrink.

This "shrinkage" results in overall thinning with time. The process of aging is another cause of male balding, as it can weaken the follicle and consequently the hair shaft. This causes thinning and baldness in men.

Other Factors That Cause Sudden Hair Loss for Men

• High levels of stress can also sometimes be blamed as a hair loss cause in men, but balding experienced in such an instance is usually temporary.
• Trauma to the head accompanied by scarring can cause permanent damage to hair follicles.
• Even hair styles pulled tightly, like braids, can be a sneaky cause of hair loss in men. The tension created by the pull of the hairdo can irritate hair follicles, destroying them and stunting hair growth in men.

But 95% of the time, you can blame genetics when trying to determine your male hair loss cause. Fortunately the hereditary hair loss cause can treated with Propecia, Rogaine, and medical hair restoration surgery. The problem isn't always what causes hair loss, but knowing what you can do about your receding hairline.

• So...How can I stop this process?
• What are the different hair loss treatments for men?
• Search for a hair transplant surgeon in your area
• See pictures of our before and after hair restoration

Cause of Hair Loss in Women

There are a number of factors to keep in mind when determining the cause of hair loss in women. Most men can attribute their balding situation to heredity, but it can be a different story for female hair loss causes. While plenty of women also inherit the difficult problem from their ancestors, many more cite a different cause of hair loss for women.

Aside from heredity, the major female hair loss causes include:

• Stress
• Medication
• Pregnancy
• Strong Hair Chemicals
• Hormones

Many times, when a woman experiences hair loss caused by one of these situations, the hair comes back once the underlining hair loss problem is under control. You might go off your medication or find a way to ease your stress and begin to notice your hair slowly growing back. Other times, however, the cause of female hair loss either can't be stopped (the medication is a lifetime commitment, for example) or the hair never comes back once it is. When hair fails to grow back, that's when it's time to turn to hair loss treatments like hair transplant surgery for women. Female hair transplant surgery isn't for everyone, that's why it's best to meet with a certified hair specialist. They can examine your hair and help better determine the cause of your female hair loss and the best solution.

Top 5 Hair Loss Shampoos

Before the introduction of cutting-edge hair loss medications like Rogaine® and Propecia; before the development of state-of-the-art hair transplant surgery; the only available hair loss treatments were soaps, sprays and tonics pandered by the likes of questionable snake-oil salesmen to the embarrassed, balding masses.

Fortunately, along with today's wave of hair loss surgery options and prescription medications, newer, more effective hair loss shampoos, conditioners, foams and lotions have also emerged—to help receding hair lines on a day-to-day basis. But what makes today's hair loss shampoos and topicals any more effective than the mysterious hair loss potions of the past? To find out more about these treatments' active ingredients and how exactly they can assist with premature hair loss or thinning hair, we've compiled a list of five of today's most popular hair loss shampoos*.

Important Note: Before reading this list, please be aware that no shampoos currently available can literally regrow hair. If a hair follicle has become inactive, no topical product will be able to reverse that; what certain shampoos and treatments can do for hair loss patients is to prevent and treat the early signs of hair thinning and hair loss before they get worse.

1) Revivogen Biocleansing Shampoo

Revivogen Biocleansing Shampoo deeply cleanses and replenishes irritated scalps with a combination of aloe vera and menthol. To treat thin hair conditions, Revivogen uses anti-DHT action to prevent DHT saturation in the hair follicles and skin of the scalp. Additional proteins and nutrients moisturize hair and create a fuller hair appearance and texture.

Revivogen shampoo's primary ingredients include aloe vera, panthenol, silicone, saw palmetto berry extract, jojoba oil, niacin, soy protein, gamma linolenic acids and zinc.

Does it work? Revivogen hair loss shampoo users have said that regular use of Revivogen has decreased their hair loss while brushing and showering. This biocleansing shampoo also effectively cleanses the scalp and removes buildup. Revivogen's anti-DHT ingredients, like saw palmetto, prevent DHT from easily binding to sensitive hair follicles, which can help both type 1 and type 2 hair loss. Revivogen also uses aloe vera and menthol to soothe irritated scalps, and to help clear away dandruff.

2) Nioxin System 3

Nioxin is a popular brand of hair loss and hair care products. Nioxin currently has 8 different hair treatment systems, specifically formulated for different hair types and hair issues. The Nioxin System 3 targets hair loss patients with fine, thinning or chemically enhanced hair, and the treatment package typically includes the shampoo cleanser, a scalp therapy conditioner, and a leave-in scalp treatment. The Nioxin System 3 Cleanser is designed to remove hair buildup and residue, while targeting DHT at the hair follicles and using amino acids to strengthen and nourish thin hair.

Nioxin System 3's primary ingredients include hydrolyzed keratin, panthenol, biotin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, niacin, rosemary, superoxide dismutase, fennel seed and wheat protein.

Does it work? Nioxin's hair loss systems have helped many consumers enjoy a thicker, cleaner head of hair. Again, hair regrowth is not promised or achieved with this hair loss shampoo, but Nioxin has improved the overall hair health and quality of most consumers. Nioxin's ingredients provide strong antioxidant protection, moisturizing properties, and will effectively remove buildup so hair follicles won't be clogged or blocked.

3) Dermenodex Scalp Cleansing Shampoo

Dermenodex is a DHT-fighting hair loss shampoo that the company terms a "complete scalp wellness product". Dermenodex is recommended for all hair types, and is reported to moisturize hair, deeply clean the scalp, promote scalp circulation, and nourish the hair follicles. Dermenodex's formula also includes adenosine, which can stimulate follicle growth.

Dermenodex Shampoo's primary ingredients include panthenol, adenosine, soy protein, glycol and hydrolyzed RNA. The primary effectiveness of Dermenodex is in its ability to fight against DHT before it binds to and weakens hair.

Does it work? Many Dermenodex patients find that their hair is healthier and stronger after using this product. As adenosine improves hair follicle growth, other ingredients moisturize and cleanse the scalp, nourish weakened hair, and create an overall healthier feel and appearance. A few patients who used Dermenodex reported some shedding.

4) Phyto PhytoCyane Revitalizing Shampoo

Phyto is a hair care company that was founded by Patrick Alès, who at one time was a leading hair stylist in Paris; he even cared for the famous 'dos of Catherine Deneuvre and Jackie Kennedy. Phyto products like PhytoCyane Revitalizing Shampoo are especially formulated to treat hair loss conditions in women, which can have different causal factors compared to hair loss in men. PhytoCyane Revitalizing Shampoo uses ginkgo biloba, grape seed extracts, and surfactants to help wash away oils and impurities more easily.

PhytoCyane's primary ingredients include panthenol, ginkgo biloba, vitamin B6, grape seed extract, and citric acid.

Does it work? PhytoCyane, like the other Phyto products, mainly uses plant-derived, natural ingredients in its shampoo, to prevent overusage of chemical additives. Many consumers say that in addition to a reduced amount of hair loss throughout the day, PhytoCyane makes hair feel thicker and improves shine.

5) HairGenesis™ Revitalizing, Cleansing and Thickening Shampoo

HairGenesis has an entire line of hair care products, but the Revitalizing, Cleansing and Thickening Shampoo is chock full of natural herbs and vitamins that enrich the hair. HairGenesis Revitalizing Shampoo also uses anti-DHT properties to reduce the amount of DHT present in both the scalp and the hair follicles.

HairGenesis Revitalizing Cleansing and Thickening Shampoo's primary ingredients include saw palmetto berry extract, green tea extract, borage oil, biotin, citric acid, and evening primrose oil.

Does it work? HairGenesis' Revitalizing Shampoo is reported to help benefit hair loss patients in the early stages of thinning and reduced growth. HairGenesis uses saw palmetto berry extract to fight DHT in the scalp and hair follicles. The presence of borage oil and evening primrose oil are excellent sources of Omega 6's. These supplements serve as anti-inflammatories and a good source of nutrients for the hair. On average, HairGenesis users reported that the Revitalizing hair loss shampoo was a good cleanser, it helped minimize the appearance of thinning hair, and it didn't create buildup at the hair follicles.

*This list was created based on comparisons of online consumer product reviews and the informed opinions of HairLossSpecialists' representatives.

Treatments for Advanced Hair Loss

While these hair loss shampoos and topical treatments are beneficial solutions for premature thinning and hair loss, moderate hair loss and/or balding require more intensive treatments. As mentioned earlier, Propecia® and Rogaine® are two of the leading hair loss medications available today.

Propecia is an oral prescription medication that uses finasteride, a DHT blocker and suppressant, to restore hair loss and thinning hair. Rogaine is an over-the-counter topical treatment that uses minoxidil to halt hair loss development, as well as improve hair growth by maximizing hair follicles' potassium channels. Propecia is only prescribed to men, as it can create side effects in pregnant women.

But even Rogaine and Propecia will be hard-pressed to correct full male pattern baldness or female alopecia. If you are currently dealing with bald spots or total baldness on the scalp, the only effective hair loss treatment option is hair transplant surgery. To determine if you are a candidate for hair transplantation surgery, it's best to have a hair loss consultation with a hair restoration specialist in your area.

How to Stop the Genetic Hair Loss Process

The first concept that should be grasped when attempting to find a method of hair replacement is that of donor area dominance. You might have noticed that a lot of bald men (perhaps yourself included!) are missing hair on the top of their scalp, yet still have healthy-looking hair around the back of their head and on the sides.

This is easily explained.

The hair follicles in that section of healthy hair possess different genetic instructions than the ones on the top of the head. They are not susceptible to the hair-loss inducing hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is why they are the follicles that are used to fill in balding areas, and why the section they come from is referred to as the "donor area."

The donor area follicles are important because of their genetic makeup, of course. But, of even greater value is their ability to retain this genetic coding even after being transplanted. This is what makes hair transplant surgery a permanent procedure.

What Causes Hair Loss in Men?

Hair loss causes are very different for men and women. Normally, hair loss in men is caused by heredity, hormones, and age. Genetic makeup determines if hair follicles in men are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes them to shrink.

This "shrinkage" results in overall thinning with time. The process of aging is another cause of male balding, as it can weaken the follicle and consequently the hair shaft. This causes thinning and baldness in men.

Other Factors That Cause Sudden Hair Loss for Men

• High levels of stress can also sometimes be blamed as a hair loss cause in men, but balding experienced in such an instance is usually temporary.
• Trauma to the head accompanied by scarring can cause permanent damage to hair follicles.
• Even hair styles pulled tightly, like braids, can be a sneaky cause of hair loss in men. The tension created by the pull of the hairdo can irritate hair follicles, destroying them and stunting hair growth in men.

But 95% of the time, you can blame genetics when trying to determine your male hair loss cause. Fortunately the hereditary hair loss cause can treated with Propecia, Rogaine, and medical hair restoration surgery. The problem isn't always what causes hair loss, but knowing what you can do about your receding hairline.

• So...How can I stop this process?
• What are the different hair loss treatments for men?
• Search for a hair transplant surgeon in your area
• See pictures of our before and after hair restoration

Cause of Hair Loss in Women

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There are a number of factors to keep in mind when determining the cause of hair loss in women. Most men can attribute their balding situation to heredity, but it can be a different story for female hair loss causes. While plenty of women also inherit the difficult problem from their ancestors, many more cite a different cause of hair loss for women.

Aside from heredity, the major female hair loss causes include:

• Stress
• Medication
• Pregnancy
• Strong Hair Chemicals
• Hormones

Many times, when a woman experiences hair loss caused by one of these situations, the hair comes back once the underlining hair loss problem is under control. You might go off your medication or find a way to ease your stress and begin to notice your hair slowly growing back. Other times, however, the cause of female hair loss either can't be stopped (the medication is a lifetime commitment, for example) or the hair never comes back once it is. When hair fails to grow back, that's when it's time to turn to hair loss treatments like hair transplant surgery for women. Female hair transplant surgery isn't for everyone, that's why it's best to meet with a certified hair specialist. They can examine your hair and help better determine the cause of your female hair loss and the best solution.

Is A Natural Hair Loss Remedy Any Good

The trouble with using a natural hair loss remedy is that you have no guarantee as to whether they work or not.

Having said that of course you could say that about all hair loss remedies! The problem is we all have different bodies and what works for one person does not necessarily work for another.

A simple enough natural hair loss remedy to try is to massage your scalp. The purpose of this is to stimulate blood flow to your hair follicles in the hope that they will see some regeneration.

Start by rubbing the scalp for no longer then couple of minutes a day; you can try doing it with some coconut or palm oil but, if you don’t want to grease your hair, you can just massage the scalp with your fingertips (not nails) with nothing on them.

Of course, if you are feeling more adventurous you can buy one of those electric massagers available in the department stores.

Natural oils like jojoba and palm oil are also known to be great natural hair growth remedy as a pre-shower treatment. All you have to do is massage it gently into the scalp before a shower, leave it in for about 10 – 15 minutes and then wash it out.

Next, try aromatherapy. Mix six drops of lavender and bay essential oil in a base of four ounces of either almond, soy bean or sesame oil; massage the mixture into the scalp and let your scalp soak in it for at least 20 minutes. The scents and herbs have been known to stimulate hair growth.

Items in your kitchen can also be used to whip up a hair rinse. Boil rosemary and sage along with peach leaf, nettle and burdock for the longer then couple of minutes. Clear the water of the herbs and let it cool down after which you can use it to wash your hair. Rosemary and sage have been known to be very effective as a natural hair growth remedy.

Finally, try henna. This is a traditional Indian herb which is used widely by women in India who have or don’t have hair loss problems. It is known to be an effective natural hair growth remedy and conditioner. Keep in mind henna will color your hair slightly red to brick red.

Listed above are just some natural remedies we have come across but if you are interested in using any of them you must do some research online or at a local natural herb store for full explanations of what would be suitable for your individual case.

But do keep in mind that any natural hair growth remedy may well not stimulate your hair growth, as mentioned earlier there are no guarantees.

Hair Loss and Its Causes

What is the normal cycle of hair growth and loss?

The normal cycle of hair growth lasts for 2 to 6 years. Each hair grows approximately 1 centimeter (less than half an inch) per month during this phase. About 90 percent of the hair on your scalp is growing at any one time. About 10 percent of the hair on your scalp, at any one time, is in a resting phase. After 2 to 3 months, the resting hair falls out and new hair starts to grow in its place.

It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, some people may experience excessive (more than normal) hair loss. Hair loss of this type can affect men, women and children.

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What causes excessive hair loss?

A number of things can cause excessive hair loss. For example, about 3 or 4 months after an illness or a major surgery, you may suddenly lose a large amount of hair. This hair loss is related to the stress of the illness and is temporary.

Hormonal problems may cause hair loss. If your thyroid gland is overactive or underactive, your hair may fall out. This hair loss usually can be helped by treatment thyroid disease. Hair loss may occur if male or female hormones, known as androgens and estrogens, are out of balance. Correcting the hormone imbalance may stop your hair loss.

Many women notice hair loss about 3 months after they've had a baby. This loss is also related to hormones. During pregnancy, high levels of certain hormones cause the body to keep hair that would normally fall out. When the hormones return to pre-pregnancy levels, that hair falls out and the normal cycle of growth and loss starts again.

Some medicines can cause hair loss. This type of hair loss improves when you stop taking the medicine. Medicines that can cause hair loss include blood thinners (also called anticoagulants), medicines used for gout, medicines used in chemotherapy to treat cancer, vitamin A (if too much is taken), birth control pills and antidepressants.

Certain infections can cause hair loss. Fungal infections of the scalp can cause hair loss in children. The infection is easily treated with antifungal medicines.

Finally, hair loss may occur as part of an underlying disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Since hair loss may be an early sign of a disease, it is important to find the cause so that it can be treated.

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Can improper care of my hair cause hair loss?

Yes. If you wear pigtails or cornrows or use tight hair rollers, the pull on your hair can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia (say: al-oh-pee-sha). If the pulling is stopped before scarring of the scalp develops, your hair will grow back normally. However, scarring can cause permanent hair loss. Hot oil hair treatments or chemicals used in permanents (also called "perms") may cause inflammation (swelling) of the hair follicle, which can result in scarring and hair loss.

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What is common baldness?

The term "common baldness" usually means male-pattern baldness, or permanent-pattern baldness. Male-pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Men who have this type of hair loss usually have inherited the trait. Men who start losing their hair at an early age tend to develop more extensive baldness. In male-pattern baldness, hair loss typically results in a receding hair line and baldness on the top of the head.

Women may develop female-pattern baldness. In this form of hair loss, the hair can become thin over the entire scalp.

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Can my doctor do something to stop hair loss?

Perhaps. Your doctor will probably ask you some questions about your diet, any medicines you're taking, whether you've had a recent illness and how you take care of your hair. If you're a woman, your doctor may ask questions about your menstrual cycle, pregnancies and menopause. Your doctor may want to do a physical exam to look for other causes of hair loss. Finally, blood tests or a biopsy (taking a small sample of cells to examine under a microscope) of your scalp may be needed.

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Is there any treatment for hair loss?

Depending on your type of hair loss, treatments are available. If a medicine is causing your hair loss, your doctor may be able to prescribe a different medicine. Recognizing and treating an infection may help stop the hair loss. Correcting a hormone imbalance may prevent further hair loss.

Medicines may also help slow or prevent the development of common baldness. One medicine, minoxidil (brand name: Rogaine), is available without a prescription. It is applied to the scalp. Both men and women can use it. Another medicine, finasteride (brand name: Propecia) is available with a prescription. It comes in pills and is only for men. It may take up to 6 months before you can tell if one of these medicines is working.

If adequate treatment is not available for your type of hair loss, you may consider trying different hairstyles or wigs, hairpieces, hair weaves or artificial hair replacement.

what causes excessive hair loss

Hair Loss and Its Causes

What is the normal cycle of hair growth and loss?

The normal cycle of hair growth lasts for 2 to 6 years. Each hair grows approximately 1 centimeter (less than half an inch) per month during this phase. About 90 percent of the hair on your scalp is growing at any one time. About 10 percent of the hair on your scalp, at any one time, is in a resting phase. After 2 to 3 months, the resting hair falls out and new hair starts to grow in its place.

It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, some people may experience excessive (more than normal) hair loss. Hair loss of this type can affect men, women and children.

What causes excessive hair loss?

A number of things can cause excessive hair loss. For example, about 3 or 4 months after an illness or a major surgery, you may suddenly lose a large amount of hair. This hair loss is related to the stress of the illness and is temporary.

Hormonal problems may cause hair loss. If your thyroid gland is overactive or underactive, your hair may fall out. This hair loss usually can be helped by treatment thyroid disease. Hair loss may occur if male or female hormones, known as androgens and estrogens, are out of balance. Correcting the hormone imbalance may stop your hair loss.

Many women notice hair loss about 3 months after they've had a baby. This loss is also related to hormones. During pregnancy, high levels of certain hormones cause the body to keep hair that would normally fall out. When the hormones return to pre-pregnancy levels, that hair falls out and the normal cycle of growth and loss starts again.

Some medicines can cause hair loss. This type of hair loss improves when you stop taking the medicine. Medicines that can cause hair loss include blood thinners (also called anticoagulants), medicines used for gout, medicines used in chemotherapy to treat cancer, vitamin A (if too much is taken), birth control pills and antidepressants.

Certain infections can cause hair loss. Fungal infections of the scalp can cause hair loss in children. The infection is easily treated with antifungal medicines.

Finally, hair loss may occur as part of an underlying disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Since hair loss may be an early sign of a disease, it is important to find the cause so that it can be treated.

Return to top

Can improper care of my hair cause hair loss?

Yes. If you wear pigtails or cornrows or use tight hair rollers, the pull on your hair can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia (say: al-oh-pee-sha). If the pulling is stopped before scarring of the scalp develops, your hair will grow back normally. However, scarring can cause permanent hair loss. Hot oil hair treatments or chemicals used in permanents (also called "perms") may cause inflammation (swelling) of the hair follicle, which can result in scarring and hair loss.

Return to top

What is common baldness?

The term "common baldness" usually means male-pattern baldness, or permanent-pattern baldness. Male-pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Men who have this type of hair loss usually have inherited the trait. Men who start losing their hair at an early age tend to develop more extensive baldness. In male-pattern baldness, hair loss typically results in a receding hair line and baldness on the top of the head.

Women may develop female-pattern baldness. In this form of hair loss, the hair can become thin over the entire scalp.

Return to top

Can my doctor do something to stop hair loss?

Perhaps. Your doctor will probably ask you some questions about your diet, any medicines you're taking, whether you've had a recent illness and how you take care of your hair. If you're a woman, your doctor may ask questions about your menstrual cycle, pregnancies and menopause. Your doctor may want to do a physical exam to look for other causes of hair loss. Finally, blood tests or a biopsy (taking a small sample of cells to examine under a microscope) of your scalp may be needed.

Return to top

Is there any treatment for hair loss?

Depending on your type of hair loss, treatments are available. If a medicine is causing your hair loss, your doctor may be able to prescribe a different medicine. Recognizing and treating an infection may help stop the hair loss. Correcting a hormone imbalance may prevent further hair loss.

Medicines may also help slow or prevent the development of common baldness. One medicine, minoxidil (brand name: Rogaine), is available without a prescription. It is applied to the scalp. Both men and women can use it. Another medicine, finasteride (brand name: Propecia) is available with a prescription. It comes in pills and is only for men. It may take up to 6 months before you can tell if one of these medicines is working.

If adequate treatment is not available for your type of hair loss, you may consider trying different hairstyles or wigs, hairpieces, hair weaves or artificial hair replacement.