Many people believe that the person who coined the phrase bald is beautiful' had a full head of hair. While many accept hair loss as a naturally occurring result of genetics, many others are looking for ways to stop hair loss from happening to them. Whether due to genetics, pharmaceuticals or some other ailment, being able to stop hair loss is a multi-million dollar market in the country.
It is normal for about 10 per cent of a person's hair to shed about every two or three months, with the rest of their hair growing almost a half inch each month. As the old hair sheds it makes room for new hair to grow through the existing follicles. Different reasons may come into play causing hair loss such as the stress of major surgery, a hormone imbalance or medications. One way to stop hair loss is to eliminate the underlying cause.
Fungal diseases of the scalp can cause hair loss and the way to stop hair loss is through the use of antifungal medications. Also, some diseases such as diabetes and lupus can cause hair to fall out. Finding the underlying cause can help in diagnosing certain ailments as well as helping to stop hair loss.
Some Hair Loss Simply Cannot Be Stopped
In the case of genetics, it is unlikely to be able to stop hair loss as the gene pool may dictate your scalp's future. In the case of common baldness (often referred to as male pattern baldness), the hair typically stops growing on top with a receding hairline being the first indicator. Usually the earlier a person begins losing their hair, the more hair they will lose as they age.
In cases where male pattern baldness is not common in the family history a visit to the doctor may be necessary to stop hair loss. If it is determined that a medication is the cause, switching drugs may stop hair loss and if there is an ailment to blame then a cure will be needed for the ailment. It could also be that improper hair treatment is the cause of the hair loss and by looking at your scalp the doctor may be able to identify any issues.
There are medications on the market to help stop hair loss and to possibly begin growing hair again such as minoxidil, available without a prescription under the brand name of Rogaine. There is also finasteride, known as Propecia, which requires a prescription. It typically requires about six months before any difference is noted from taking either of these medications.
