Navigating Hair Thinning: A Personal Journey and Practical Tips
Ah, hair thinning – it can feel like a real unexpected gut punch, amiright? If you’re dealing with this, you’re definitely not alone. I’ve recently faced hair thinning myself. Our hair feels like a little crown, so seeing it thin out can truly hit hard. Let’s walk through this together and explore some paths to hope and repair!
It’s A Personal Journey
I see so many women grappling with tough or challenging life situations. And when hair loss becomes one more thing to handle, it feels particularly tragic.
In my situation, a fibroid diagnosis, followed by a C-section surgery to remove the fibroid was the beginning of it all for me. The aftermath was tough: I found myself in a whirlpool of depression, frequent appointments with a fertility specialist, and the daunting realization that I might not have another child. Each of these events piled on the stress, leading to a huge hair shed—something that often happens post-surgery.
Since most cases are driven by intense stress and stress is everywhere in our lives, it only exasperates the hair loss. All that to say, stress-management is a huge part of my recovery.
Understanding Hair Loss
When my hair started thinning, sitting down with a doctor felt like a game-changer. Understanding the root of the problem gave me power and choices. Seriously, book that derm appointment like now—knowledge is definitely power!
In case you’re new to this, here’s a quick hair-growth 101 – your hair’s “lifespan” happens in three stages:
Anagen Phase (Growing Phase): This is when about 85-90% of your hair is thriving. It lasts 2-8 years.
Catagen Phase (Transition Phase): A quick 2-3 week phase where hair follicles start shrinking.
Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): Lasting 2-4 months, this phase wraps up with hair naturally falling out.
For women, there are the main types of hair loss to be aware of:
Androgenetic Alopecia: The most common type, it’s often genetic. Check if it runs in the family!
Anagen Effluvium (AE): Often medication-induced (think chemotherapy). It hits during the anagen phase, affecting both head and body hair.
Telogen Effluvium (TE): Usually stress-induced, leading to more hair than usual entering the telogen phase. You might notice extra hairs on your pillow or in the shower.
Seen these signs? Your dermatologist can be your guide, so reach out!
Steps to Address Hair Thinning
Consult a Doctor: This is your first port of call. They can help you pinpoint the cause and find the best treatment for you.
Specialized Hair Products: Choose shampoos and conditioners that nourish your scalp. Need recommendations? Let’s chat!
Supplements:
Iron Supplements or Transfusions: Essential if low iron is your issue.
Hair Supplements: Nutrafol and Viviscal are popular and effective options. Nutrafol targets stress and nutrition, while Viviscal focuses on reducing hair shedding.
Minoxidil Treatments:
Topical or Oral: This can stimulate hair growth, but remember, it takes patience—results show in 3-6 months.
PRP Therapy: A high-tech option using your blood's platelets to invigorate growth. It requires several initial sessions and maintenance treatments with benefits appearing 1-3 months post-procedure.
Red Light Therapy: This soothing treatment can enhance your hair health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Generally, a routine of 2-3 times a week for several months will reap benefits.
Haircuts and Extensions: Considering a new cut or extensions can add volume and transform your look while tackling hair thinning.
Stress Management: Engage in calming routines like yoga or meditation to take some stress off your shoulders (and your hair).
Consistency is Key
Most importantly, remember that these solutions require a commitment. Stick to the recommended schedule and dose of any treatments to avoid side effects and ensure success.
Navigating this journey is about finding what works for you and embracing the process. Let’s reclaim your crown with confidence. You’re not just surviving this—you’re thriving through it!
If you’d like to talk more about this with me, feel free to send me a DM (@bridgetbragerhair) or sign up for the BBH Newsletter, chalk full of healthy hair tips, how-tos and solutions.