Your Dermatologist Can Help You Combat Hair Loss
Hair loss is a problem that can affect both men and women, and many people aren’t sure what can be done about it. If you’re someone dealing with hair loss, we have some information you need to know.
First, it’s important to understand why hair loss happens. A medical issue like any other symptom, hair loss often reflects a problem with your overall health. In order to delay hair loss or prevent its progression, it’s important to determine the cause. It could be an imbalance in your system, like anemia or a thyroid problem. Hair loss can also occur after a traumatic event like surgery or childbirth. Your diet may be lacking in nutrients, you may be under undue stress, or it could be the result of years of pulling your ponytail too tight. However, hair loss can also be caused by an illness, like psoriasis or alopecia areata. The only way to know for sure what’s going on is to see a dermatologist for an evaluation. While you’re waiting for your appointment, try these steps on your own:
- Don’t be rough with your hair. Use a gentle shampoo and condition it every time you wash it. Add a leave-in conditioner or detangler and wrap your hair in a microfiber towel to help it dry quickly without a blow dryer. Skip hot oil treatments because these can further damage fragile hair. If you wear your hair pulled back, do so loosely. Brush your hair gently, and if you have a habit of twisting or pulling on it, try not to do that.
- Stop at-home chemical treatments. Coloring, perming, straightening, and relaxing your hair at home can be harder on your hair than going to the salon. If you go to a salon, make sure the stylist uses a moisturizing conditioner after your treatment.
- Limit your use of hair appliances. Curling irons, flat irons, and hot combs can weaken and damage your hair, so save them for very rare occasions. Try to limit your use of blow dryers, and when you do blow your hair dry, use the lowest setting.
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet. A diet lacking nutrients like iron and protein can lead to hair loss, as can eating too few calories. Talk to your dermatologist before starting any supplements.
A board-certified dermatologist can provide a personalized treatment plan to help with hair loss. Whether you need help for your nails, face, body, or scalp, Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology is committed to providing superior, professional care that’s practical, efficient, and compassionate. With over 30 years of experience providing dermatological services in Salt Lake City, we provide a variety of services, from cosmetic skincare to treatment for skin cancer. Our team of board-certified dermatologists licensed cosmetic service providers, and friendly staff members are here to provide you the care you need in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. For more information, contact us through our website or call (801) 682-4715 today.