From Thinning to Thriving: Understanding Hair Loss Causes and Clinically Proven Remedies

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Hair loss affects men and women of all ages and can significantly impact self-esteem. Although it’s commonly associated with aging, when it occurs at a young age, hair loss can be particularly distressing. Thicker and fuller hair often symbolizes masculinity for men, while long, healthy hair is associated with femininity and attractiveness for women. So, it is understandable that hair loss can diminish self-confidence and self-worth. Fortunately, Ziering Medical’s experts understand the causes of hair loss and offer tailored treatments to restore hairlines, bald spots, and your sense of well-being and confidence. Here we will discuss the primary causes of hair loss and the corresponding treatment options.

INTRODUCING THE FUTURE OF FOLLICLE STEM CELL THERAPEUTICS

The most prevalent cause is genetic or hereditary hair loss, referred to as androgenetic alopecia or pattern hair loss. This condition affects 95% of those experiencing hair loss, with 40% of cases occurring in women between the ages of 25 and 35, and approximately 66% of men experiencing noticeable hair loss by age 35. By the age of 50, roughly 85% of men will have significantly thinner hair and by the age of 60, about two-thirds of men are experiencing some pattern of baldness
To assess and evaluate the current stage and potential progression of genetic hair loss, the Norwood and Ludwig scales are typically used.

NORWOOD SCALE

Illustration depicting various patterns of male hair loss, labeled from O1 to O7. The image includes side and top views, showcasing different stages and types of baldness, such as receding hairlines, thinning crowns, and complete baldness. This visual serves as an educational reference for understanding hair loss progression and is useful for those exploring treatment options or seeking advice on hair restoration methods.
Before and after images of a male patient showing hair restoration results. The top image displays significant hair loss, particularly at the crown and front of the head, labeled "Before." The bottom image illustrates improved hair density and coverage, indicating successful hair restoration treatment. This visual comparison highlights the effectiveness of hair restoration procedures for individuals experiencing male pattern baldness.

Autoimmune Conditions

Imbalances in the immune system can lead to hair loss, particularly in individuals under 50. Common autoimmune conditions associated with hair loss include Alopecia Areata, Lupus, Hashimoto’s Disease (underactive thyroid), Graves’ Disease (overactive thyroid), and Crohn’s Disease.

Traction Alopecia

This is a form of acquired hair loss resulting from prolonged or repetitive tension on scalp hair due to certain hairstyles, such as tight braids, cornrows, ponytails, or buns. It is crucial to avoid wearing these hairstyles for extended periods to allow your hair and scalp time to recover.
Smiling woman with long, braided hair wearing a burgundy long-sleeve top, captured in a candid moment against a white brick wall. Her joyful expression and flowing hair create a sense of movement and positivity. The image highlights the beauty of natural hairstyles and showcases a relaxed, modern fashion style. This photo is ideal for lifestyle blogs, fashion websites, or social media content focused on self-expression and confidence.

Stress-Related Hair Loss

Experiencing more than 100 to 150 hairs shedding daily may indicate a stress-related hair loss condition known as telogen effluvium. This type of hair loss can also be a result of emotional and physical stress. Telogen effluvium is common after an emotionally distressing event, major surgery, severe illness like COVID, or a high fever. The shock causes follicles to enter the resting phase (telogen) of the hair growth cycle resulting in excessive hair shedding. While telogen effluvium is typically temporary and hair usually regrows after six to nine months, it may unmask underlying genetic hair loss, necessitating a medical consultation to determine the appropriate treatment.

Poor Diets and Crash Diets

Fad diets and inadequate nutrition can negatively impact hair and scalp health. Improving nutrition by incorporating lean protein, green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, nuts, and legumes can help reverse these deficiencies and improve hair health and appearance.
A young woman with blonde hair sits at a kitchen table, looking stressed and contemplative while surrounded by fresh vegetables including lettuce, broccoli, and carrots. She rests her forehead on her hand, indicating frustration or overwhelm, as she considers her meal preparation options. The kitchen is bright and modern, with cooking utensils visible in the background. This image captures the challenges of healthy cooking and meal planning, reflecting common feelings of pressure in maintaining a balanced diet.
A middle-aged man with gray hair examines his hairline while standing in a well-lit room. He appears concerned about hair loss, gently running his fingers through his hair. The image highlights common issues related to aging and hair thinning. This visual can be used in discussions about hair care, aging gracefully, and solutions for hair loss.

Time and Age

Even without any underlying medical conditions or health factors, both men and women naturally experience hair thinning and weakening as they age. Over time, hair starts to miniaturize, becoming finer and thinner until it stops growing altogether. As you age, it is important to support hair health and growth by adding hair loss prevention products to your hair care routine and regimen to ensure that the hair follicles are as healthy and robust as possible through the years.

The Proven Hair Loss Treatment Solutions

Ziering surgeons are hair loss experts who will assess your hair loss and design a customized treatment plan using a combination of proven treatment options ranging from oral medications, topical solutions, non-invasive therapies, and hair transplantation.
These include:

Finasteride

Finasteride, an FDA-approved medication, treats male pattern hair loss by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Thisenzyme converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent form of testosterone that triggers hair follicle miniaturization, resulting in smaller, weaker hairs until hair growth stops completely. As Finasteride works to decrease DHT levels, the affected follicles gradually recover and produce thicker hair. Women of childbearing age should avoid this medication due to potential fetal risks.

At Ziering Medical, we offer both forms of Finasteride:
oral tablets, ZPRO, and topical, ZFIN.

With ZFIN, our male patients have reported early results without experiencing the side effects of oral finasteride tablets. ZFIN is a unique combination of finasteride, fluocinolone, and retinoic acid that is applied to your scalp daily to reduce DHT, improve hair growth, and reduce hair shedding.

Two black dropper bottles labeled "3. FIN" and "3. MIN" on white backgrounds. The bottles are designed for liquid products, featuring a sleek, modern aesthetic. Ideal for essential oils, tinctures, or serums, these bottles have a child-proof cap and a dropper for precise dispensing. The minimalist design emphasizes the product's quality and elegance, making them suitable for both personal and professional use. Perfect for beauty or wellness brands looking to enhance their packaging presentation.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an FDA-approved hair growth topical and oral medication. Minoxidil, combined with other substances, can provide even more effective and long-lasting results than Minoxidil alone.

Ziering Medical’s ZMIN combines the FDA-approved hair growth medication Minoxidil with retinoic acid for enhanced penetration. It also has a blend of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-androgen ingredients. Formula ZMIN enhances penetration of minoxidil in a non-greasy, user-friendly, formulation that stimulates hair growth and decreases hair loss for men and women.

Laser Therapy

The Z Cap is a clinically proven and FDA-cleared hair growth device to reverse male and female pattern hair loss. This device uses Low-Level-Laser Therapy (LLLT) to stimulate inactive hair follicles. It is a safe, all-natural, and painless hair growth treatment. The best thing about the Z Cap is you can treat your hair loss in the comfort of your home or while you’re on the go. More about the Z Cap at zieringshop.com.

In office laser therapy is also available at Ziering Medical
with our Keralase device which combines laser treatments with KeraFactor™, a proprietary KeraFactor Peptide Complex (KFP ™) which includes 7 Polypeptides with specifically selected growth factors and skin proteins to help with hair, skin, and scalp. This patent-pending complex helps to “turn on” weak or resting hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and add nutrients to help produce thicker longer healthy-looking hair.

A professional hair restoration specialist uses a microneedling device on a client's scalp in a modern clinic. The client is seated comfortably with a towel around their neck, while the specialist wears a mask and protective eyewear. Bright, natural light illuminates the treatment area, showcasing advanced equipment and a clean, organized environment. This image highlights the process of non-surgical hair restoration techniques aimed at improving hair growth and scalp health.

Z-Factors

One of the most advanced topical hair loss solutions available, Z-Factors are comprised of naturally occurring nanoparticles including Growth Factors, Cytokines, Extracellular Vesicles, Peptides, Proteins, and Hyaluronic Acid. This in-office treatment is applied topically to the scalp with no downtime and no anesthesia required. ZFactors support hair health and growth.

Surgical Hair Transplants: FUE and MDEE®

Hair transplant procedures may be recommended especially if you have underlying male or female pattern genetic hair loss. Follicular Unit Excision and Extraction (FUE) and Microscopically Dissected Elliptical Excision (MDEE®), formerly known as FUT, are surgical hair loss solutions available at Ziering Medical.

The difference between FUE and MDEE® is that with the
MDEE® method, a precise donor strip is shaved, a linear
incision is made, and a thin strip of tissue is removed. Hair grafts are then microscopically dissected from this donor strip. In FUE, we use the same donor zone, shaving the entire back and sides of the head, but manually extracting follicular units directly from the scalp, one graft at a time.

With the recent advances in hair transplant methods, the results of these procedures can look so natural that a barber or stylist can’t tell you’ve had anything done. Hair transplant surgery is the only permanent hair loss treatment option. But you’ll have to talk to Dr. Ziering and his team of doctors to tell if you’re a good candidate for a hair transplant.

Before and after images showcasing the results of a hair restoration procedure. The top section displays close-up views of the eyes and hairline of a patient before and after treatment, highlighting improvement in hair density and hairline definition. The middle section features a comparison of the forehead area, illustrating a noticeable change in hair growth. The bottom section focuses on the jawline and side profile of the same patient, emphasizing enhanced facial aesthetics post-procedure. These images provide a visual representation of the effectiveness of hair restoration techniques
Before and after images showcasing hair restoration results. The top section displays two individuals with varying hairlines, labeled "Before" and "After" to illustrate the transformation. The bottom section features two additional individuals, also showing significant hair improvement. The images highlight the effectiveness of hair restoration treatments, emphasizing changes in hair density and overall appearance. This visual representation serves to inform potential clients about the positive outcomes of hair restoration procedures.

Reach out to Ziering Medical Today!

With hair loss, early intervention is key and impacts hair restoration outcomes. Once you have noticed that your hair is thinning, you most likely have already lost 50% of your existing air. For the best results work with a hair loss expert who can determine what’s causing your hair loss and get your hair healthy and growing again. Proactive treatment is one of the best ways to get the best results.