Dermatology & Hair Growth

A dermatologist can help a patient experience hair growth, through a variety of techniques. In normal hair growth, about 90 percent of hair grows naturally at any given time. For those who are experiencing hair loss, medical intervention by a dermatologist may be required. There is no cure for permanent baldness.

Hair Growth

• The growth of hair goes through cycles. This will vary according to the individual. Anagen, which is the medical term for the cycle of growth of scalp hair, usually lasts two to three years in duration. Each month, the hair grows by approximately less than half an inch. The next cycle is the resting phase, which typically has a duration of three to four months. By the end of the resting phase, the hair falls out and a new one grows in its place.

Hair Loss

• Hair loss can be experienced for a variety of medical reasons, ranging from anemia to stress. Being on certain medications can also cause hair loss. In the case of anemia, taking iron supplements will stop the hair from falling out and normal hair growth will resume. In the case of stress, eliminating stressors can stop hair loss from occurring.

  But hair loss can also be hereditary, also known as androgenetic alopecia. Women may experience hair loss, but not become completely bald. Men may experience total baldness as a result of hereditary alopecia. The most common medical treatments prescribed by dermatologists for hereditary alopecia are the use of Minoxidil, which can be used by both men and women, and Finasteride, an oral medication for men only.

  A dermatologist can also treat someone with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition.

Treatments

• Among the treatments that a dermatologist can use to help hair grow are cortisone injections in the scalp where the hair loss has occurred. Such topical medications like Minoxidil can also be prescribed. Another topical medication that is used is Anthralin. A light treatment can be used to make hair grow. Last, but not least, oral medications can be used such as Finasteride.

Hair Restoration Surgery

• As a last resort, a dermatologist can perform hair restoration surgery. Such surgery would create a natural-looking hairline. Depending on the type and extent of hair loss, different techniques of surgery would be used.

  Different types of hair replacement surgery include hair transplants, scalp reduction and scalp or tissue expanders. Hair replacement surgery does not require general anesthesia. Multiple sessions are usually needed.

Wigs and hairpieces

• For the patient who does not respond to treatment, wigs or hairpieces can be worn. Usually patients use these in cases of both permanent or temporary hair loss. A wig or hairpiece made of human hair can be purchased for a higher price.