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Led by plastic surgeon Dr. Ayad Harb, we pride ourselves on the standard of care, quality and safety of our treatments.

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Thinning Hair

Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Dr. Ayad Harb, one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

About Thinning Hair

Thinning hair is a condition that, while frequently associated with the ageing process, is by no means limited to the elderly. It's a phenomenon that can emerge as a substantial concern for many, manifesting as early as one's twenties. The significance of hair in our lives cannot be underestimated. Across numerous cultures around the globe, hair serves as a marker of beauty, health, and often, personal identity. Its texture, length, and density not only impact our external appearance but also profoundly influence our self-perception and the manner in which we interact with the world.

The emotional ramifications of thinning hair are myriad. As the hair begins to lose its former volume and vitality, many individuals undergo emotional and psychological challenges. These emotional responses can mirror those experienced by individuals with pronounced hair loss patterns, such as alopecia or evident baldness. The distress experienced is, therefore, not only about the physical change but is deeply intertwined with issues of self-esteem, identity, and societal perceptions.

A dive into the causative factors of thinning hair reveals a landscape as varied as its manifestations. Genetics, for one, plays a pivotal role. Just as one might inherit a family member's eye colour, hair texture, or predisposition to certain health conditions, the likelihood of experiencing thinning hair can also be a genetic hand-me-down. If parents or grandparents grapple with thinning hair or outright baldness, the odds increase that subsequent generations might face similar challenges.

But genes are just one piece of the puzzle. Hormonal changes, especially in women, can significantly influence hair health. Life events such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause bring with them tectonic shifts in hormonal balances. These shifts, while natural, can have the unintended consequence of impacting hair density, either temporarily or permanently. Further complicating the hormonal picture is conditions like Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is characterised by hormonal imbalances which, among other symptoms, can lead to thinning hair.

Yet, the story doesn't end with genetics and hormones. The environment we inhabit, the air we breathe, and the lifestyle choices we make are all instrumental in determining hair health. For instance, excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can weaken hair shafts, making them brittle. Similarly, pollutants suspended in the air can settle on the scalp and hair, introducing harmful particles that can compromise hair health. Nutrition, too, cannot be sidelined in this discussion. A balanced diet, replete with essential nutrients, ensures that hair receives the nourishment it needs. Conversely, deficiencies can stunt hair growth and contribute to reduced hair density.

The link between stress and hair health is another vital consideration. In today's fast-paced world, chronic stress, be it emotional or physical, is an all-too-common ailment. Elevated stress levels lead to the release of cortisol, a hormone which, when in excess, can disrupt hair growth cycles. This disruption can lead to premature hair shedding, further exacerbating thinning.

Lastly, an external factor that often goes unnoticed is our hair care regimen. The products we use, the frequency with which we style our hair, and even the way we tie it can either nourish or harm. Overzealous styling, the use of aggressive chemicals, and frequent application of heat can weaken hair shafts. Over time, this damage can manifest as breakage, reducing overall hair volume.

In sum, thinning hair is not just a cosmetic concern but a complex interplay of genetics, hormones, environment, and personal choices. Recognizing these myriad factors is the first step toward effective management and treatment.

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Types of Thinning Hair

Diffuse Thinning

Diffuse thinning is characterised by a uniform reduction in hair density across the entire scalp. Unlike other forms of hair loss, which may be localised or patterned, diffuse thinning does not discriminate. Every part of the scalp, from the front to the back, is affected equally. This makes it particularly challenging to diagnose in the early stages, as the thinning can be subtle and spread out.

The causes behind diffuse thinning are varied but often point towards systemic or whole-body issues. Hormonal imbalances are a frequent culprit. When the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts, such as during pregnancy or menopause, it can impact the hair growth cycle, leading to thinning. Moreover, nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of iron or essential vitamins, can also result in diffuse thinning. The hair, like any other part of the body, requires specific nutrients to grow and flourish. A deficiency in these nutrients can disrupt the hair's growth phase, leading to an overall reduction in density.

Additionally, certain medications and treatments, such as chemotherapy, can result in diffuse thinning. It's always essential to consult with healthcare professionals and discuss potential side effects of any treatment. Early intervention and awareness can go a long way in managing and mitigating this type of thinning.

Patterned Thinning

Patterned thinning, as the name suggests, follows a specific pattern on the scalp. This type of thinning is often easier to recognize because of its distinct appearance. In men, it typically starts with a receding hairline, followed by thinning at the crown. Over time, these two areas may merge, leading to more pronounced hair loss. Women, on the other hand, usually experience patterned thinning as a widening of their parting line.

The primary driver behind patterned thinning is genetics. If there's a family history of male or female pattern baldness, the likelihood of experiencing this type of thinning increases significantly. Hormones, especially Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a vital role in this process. Elevated levels of DHT can shrink hair follicles, leading to shorter growth cycles and thinner hair strands.

It's worth noting that patterned thinning is progressive. Without intervention, the thinning can continue and become more pronounced. However, with timely treatment and proper care, it's possible to slow down the progression and even regrow some of the lost hair.

Thinning due to Breakage

Unlike the first two types, thinning due to breakage isn't rooted in internal factors but external ones. This form of thinning is primarily driven by how one treats their hair. Repeated and aggressive styling, excessive use of heat tools, and harsh chemical treatments can all compromise the hair's structural integrity. Over time, this can lead to hair that is brittle, weak, and prone to breakage.

When hair breaks off, it often does so at different lengths. This can give the appearance of uneven, thin hair. Moreover, certain hairstyles, like tight ponytails or braids, can put excessive tension on the hair, leading to breakage and even traction alopecia if sustained over long periods.

To address thinning due to breakage, it's essential to re-evaluate one's hair care routine. Opting for gentler products, reducing the frequency of heat styling, and giving hair a break from tight hairstyles can all help in restoring its health and reducing breakage-induced thinning.

Thinning Hair Treatments

PRP for Hair

In the ever-evolving realm of aesthetic and medical treatments, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy stands out as a beacon of hope for those battling thinning hair. Originally hailed for its healing and regenerative capacities in other medical domains, PRP has been embraced by the world of trichology and aesthetic medicine with promising results.

PRP therapy, at its core, leverages the body's innate healing mechanisms. The procedure commences with the extraction of a modest amount of the patient's blood. This extracted sample is then subjected to a centrifugal process. The centrifuge whirls at a high speed, efficiently separating the plasma rich in platelets from the other components of the blood. This platelet-rich plasma, teeming with growth factors and proteins pivotal for cell regeneration, is then meticulously reintroduced to the scalp via a series of minor injections.

The underlying principle of PRP therapy hinges on these growth factors. When injected into the scalp, these growth factors spur hair follicles into action. Dormant follicles may be awakened, and active ones reinforced, resulting in an augmentation of hair density. Furthermore, the surrounding tissues benefit from the healing and rejuvenating properties of PRP, creating a conducive environment for healthy hair growth.

Many patients, after undergoing PRP treatments, report a transformation not just in the volume of their hair but its overall health and vitality. The procedure's allure is augmented by its minimally invasive nature, and the fact that it harnesses the body's natural resources, specifically the patient's plasma, rendering it a holistic approach to hair restoration.

However, it's pertinent to note that PRP isn't a panacea for all hair woes. Its efficacy is contingent on the individual's unique hair situation. While some have documented dramatic rejuvenations, others observe more nuanced enhancements. The diversity in outcomes underscores the importance of individual assessment. A consultation with a seasoned medical professional, preferably one with expertise in PRP therapy, is indispensable. Such consultations facilitate a comprehensive scalp examination, allowing the practitioner to understand the nuances of the patient's hair thinning and provide insight into the potential benefits and outcomes they can anticipate from PRP therapy.

Another aspect of PRP therapy that warrants attention is its iterative nature. To derive optimal results, a series of treatment sessions are typically recommended. Beyond these initial sessions, maintenance treatments might be proposed, ensuring the longevity and improvement of results over time. To enhance the outcomes further, many professionals suggest coupling PRP with adjunctive treatments or specialised hair care routines, which can act synergistically to magnify results.

Conclusively, the journey with thinning hair, laden with its emotional ebbs and flows, can find a ray of hope in treatments like PRP. With its innovative approach, drawing from the body's healing prowess, combined with the right care, it offers a path to reclaiming not just hair density but also the associated confidence and self-assuredness.

About Our Clinic

Located in the heart of Ascot, Bicester, and London, the SRGN Clinic exemplifies afusion of cutting-edge science, unparalleled skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. The clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in thefield of aesthetic and plastic surgery.

Leading the team at SRGN is Dr. Ayad Harb, a renowned plastic surgeon and aesthetic trainer. His expertise, honed by years of experience and a genuine passion for improving lives, defines the very core of the clinic's ethos. Dr. Harb's innovative techniques, combined with an artistic eye for detail, enable him to deliver consistently exceptional results that are tailored to each patient's individual needs and desires.

At SRGN, we believe in the transformative power of aesthetic and plastic surgery. Our treatments, ranging from non-invasive procedures to complex surgical interventions, are designed to enhance and accentuate your natural beauty. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment where you can discuss your aesthetic goals openly, and together we create a treatment plan that brings these goals to life.

Every member of the SRGN team shares a deep commitment to patient care. We prioritise your comfort, safety, and satisfaction from the moment you step into our clinic. Each of our facilities mirrors the luxury and tranquility of their surroundings, offering a serene space where you can embark on your journey to self-improvement.

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