Hair Loss

Hair loss is a distressing condition for women.

 It is normal to lose between 50 to 100 hairs daily but what if you notice more hairs in your hairbrush, in the shower base or on your pillow?

Hair grows in cycles:

• The active hair growth phase is known as the Anagen phase where hair grows from the follicle and this phase can last for several years. 

• Catagen phase is when the hair growth stops and this phase may last for up to three weeks. 

• Telagen phase is when hair growth is resting and hair falls out, this phase can last up to 3 months.

Excessive hair fall can be due to a stress event experienced within the last few months, for example:

• emotional stress

• significant weight loss

• illness

• giving birth

• stopping birth control 

  This is usually temporary and once the body recovers the hair usually grows back within a few months. 

Hair loss is different and occurs when the hair stops growing. When hair stops growing it can be from an hereditary cause, medications such as chemotherapy, or immune imbalances.

The Naturopathic approach for maintaining healthy hair

Firstly, there can be many reasons for hair loss and identifying the underlying cause is important so it can be addressed.

• Thyroid function

  Low thyroid function can cause hair loss.  If you have thinning of the outside of the eyebrows, hair falling out, always feeling cold, low energy, and can’t lose weight, it may be time to have your thyroid checked.

• Nutritional deficiencies and Poor Gut Health

  Nutrient deficiencies of iron, zinc, protein, and biotin may contribute to hair loss;

  Our skin and hair reflect how healthy we are and how healthy our gut environment is.  If we have inflammation, overgrowth or bacteria, low levels of good gut bacteria and poor digestion of nutrients, this will affect the health of the hair. 

  Microbiome Mapping may be helpful in identifying any gut issues that may contribute to hair loss, such as inflammation, poor digestion and absorption of proteins or dysbiosis.

• Chronic stress

  Stress and illness can cause hair loss. Once the stress is over, the hair usually grows back.  However, extended periods of stress can cause high levels of cortisol and inflammation, which can affect the growth of new hair.

Treatment:

You will be provided with guided expert advice, nutrition and herbal medicine to address the underlying causes of your hair loss and to improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Book an appointment with Colleen today.