This article is a translation of the original French article “Perte de cheveux : quand consulter ?” and is intended for the French market. Treatments, availability and prices may differ at our London clinic.
Understanding the natural life cycle of hair
The life cycle of a hair consists of three phases:
- Anagen phase (growth phase): This phase lasts between 2 and 6 years and is the period during which the hair actively grows.
- Catagen phase (transition phase): This phase lasts around 2 to 3 weeks, during which hair growth slows and the hair follicle shrinks.
- Telogen phase (resting phase): During this 2- to 3-month phase, the hair stops growing and eventually falls out, to be replaced by a new hair.
Each hair follows this cycle independently, which explains why we lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day without this being abnormal.
Why do we lose our hair?
Hair loss (or effluvium) occurs when hair falls out in greater quantities than normal. It can be caused by various factors, including:
- Stress: Physical or emotional.
- Medication: Certain drug treatments can lead to hair loss.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid imbalance.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins and minerals.
How to recognise abnormal hair loss?
Hair loss is considered abnormal when it exceeds natural daily shedding and becomes visible. Signs include:
- A noticeable decrease in hair volume.
- Bald patches.
- Hair falling out in clumps when brushing or washing.
What is alopecia and what causes it?
Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. It can be caused by several factors, including:
- Genetics
- Autoimmune diseases (such as alopecia areata)
- Scalp infections
- Dermatological conditions
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
What is androgenetic alopecia?
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. It is caused by a genetic sensitivity to androgens (male hormones) and manifests as a gradual thinning of the hair. In men, it is characterised by a receding hairline at the temples and on the crown, while in women it often results in overall thinning across the scalp.
What are the treatments for alopecia?
Treatments for alopecia vary depending on the cause and severity. They include:
- Medication: Minoxidil (topical) and finasteride (oral) for androgenetic alopecia.
- Hormone therapies: For hormonal imbalances.
- Corticosteroid injections: For cases of alopecia areata.
- Nutritional supplements: To make up for deficiencies.
- Laser light therapies: To stimulate hair growth.
- Hair transplants: For severe and persistent cases.
When should you have a hair transplant?
A hair transplant may be considered when:
- Other treatments have not been effective.
- Hair loss is significant and affects quality of life.
- The patient has a sufficient donor area of healthy hair.
Who should you see when you are losing your hair?
It is essential to consult a specialist - particularly those who specialise in hair problems - to assess whether a transplant is appropriate and to discuss expectations and possible results. They can diagnose the cause of the hair loss and recommend a suitable treatment.
At Innerskin, we offer a hair consultation directly to determine your needs and guide you towards the most suitable treatment.
