Consult by instant messaging with a Hair loss

What causes hair loss in men and women?

In men, hair loss is often referred to as androgenetic alopecia. Often hereditary, it may indeed be linked to elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in men. Alopecia is actually a form of baldness that gradually causes the hair to thin. The temples and the crown of the head are the areas most affected, but a receding hairline can also be noticed. Besides hereditary factors, hair loss can be linked to various factors, including psychological ones. Major physical or emotional stress can, for example, lead to telogen effluvium, another form of hair loss. This type tends to be sudden and diffuse across the whole scalp. Finally, certain autoimmune diseases, particularly alopecia areata, can cause hair loss in well-defined areas. This abnormal immune system reaction attacks the hair follicles. Women can also be affected by androgenetic alopecia. In women, hair loss tends to be characterised by diffuse thinning on the top of the head. The hairline recedes less noticeably than in men. As for telogen effluvium, it can affect some women during pregnancy or menopause, due to hormonal changes. Finally, it is worth remembering the importance of lifestyle, which can also have an impact on the hair loss process. For example, a nutritional deficiency, particularly in vitamins or iron, can be linked to hair loss. The use of harsh cosmetic products, tight hairstyles, frequent use of hair straighteners (or another heat source), and chemical treatments are also risk factors for hair loss (traction alopecia).

Hair loss: effective treatment

There are several ways to effectively treat hair loss, depending on the underlying cause. However, it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment, and above all in which cases they may be indicated. If hair loss is a concern for you, do not hesitate to ask for the opinion of an online dermatologist on Feeli. Baldness (or alopecia) is generally treated with a topical treatment, Minoxidil. It is used to stop or slow hair loss and stimulate hair growth. This treatment is approved for men and women by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For men, 5% Minoxidil is often indicated, used regularly, with a formulation of between 2% and 5% typically used for women. Results generally show an improvement in hair density. Other oral medications are used in men to block the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), for example Finasteride, and sometimes Dutasteride prescribed off-label. As for telogen effluvium, it is sometimes reversible once the causes are identified and treated. This form of hair loss is generally linked to factors including hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies and certain illnesses. To prevent nutritional deficiencies, supplements containing iron, zinc and vitamins D and B12 are sometimes used, when deficiencies are identified. Finally, depending on the cause and personal medical conditions, other hair loss treatments exist. Corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors and immunotherapy, for example, are sometimes used, depending on the cause and the patient's profile. Changing hairstyling habits can also help prevent hair loss, particularly in women. As a last resort, surgery (hair transplant) is possible.

Are natural remedies for hair loss effective?

The effectiveness of natural remedies for treating hair loss is often called into question, due to the lack of scientific evidence. We recommend in any case discussing it beforehand with a dermatologist, for example on Feeli. Nevertheless, we can give you some popular remedies sometimes used in traditional medicine. Some people suggest, for example, that rosemary oil is effective at improving blood circulation in the scalp. It may also promote hair growth or regrowth. Peppermint oil is also considered interesting by some for its stimulating properties, but the scientific evidence remains too limited. Aloe vera is another plant known for its soothing properties and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also help improve scalp health and promote regrowth. As surprising as it may seem, onion juice is another popular natural remedy! Here again, studies are too limited, but some suggest it may promote hair growth. Its effectiveness is not universally agreed upon, and more broadly, natural remedies do not have enough scientific evidence behind them. Finally, we can mention the use of certain supplements (zinc, vitamins D and B12, biotin) when nutritional deficiencies are identified. Another approach, with limited evidence of effectiveness, may include scalp massages, to promote blood circulation. This could also help reduce stress and improve hair health.

Is Luxéol effective for treating hair loss?

Often presented as a solution to hair loss, Luxéol is a dietary supplement, available without a prescription. Is it really effective, as its manufacturers suggest? When you look closely at its composition, its formulation contains natural ingredients, such as zinc, biotin, plant extracts, selenium and B vitamins. These ingredients are indeed all popular for their potential benefits to hair health. However, this formulation may possibly be effective for people with proven deficiencies. For people without a deficiency, the impact of certain ingredients such as biotin, zinc or selenium appears limited for hair growth. Furthermore, solid scientific evidence remains too limited. Indeed, to date, there are no large-scale clinical studies demonstrating the effectiveness of Luxéol for treating hair loss. Most testimonials are often anecdotal, and as for the scientific studies, it is not uncommon for them to be funded by the manufacturers, which can also introduce a bias in effectiveness. We instead recommend turning to treatments with proven effectiveness, such as Finasteride or Minoxidil. If you wish to use natural remedies or supplements, it is best to consult a dermatologist to benefit from the best treatment. An assessment or blood test may be necessary, for example to look for any nutritional deficiencies. If needed, an online consultation with a dermatologist is available within 24 hours on Feeli to meet your needs and put in place a suitable treatment.

How can hair loss be stopped in women?

Hair loss in women is not treated in exactly the same way as in men, in particular because of hormonal fluctuations at certain times in a woman's life. It is therefore essential to determine the underlying cause of hair loss in order to best tailor the treatment. On Feeli, you can consult a dermatologist by teleconsultation, within 24 hours, to work out the best strategy. Topical Minoxidil in a 2% formulation (sometimes 5%) can, for example, be prescribed by a dermatologist. This topical treatment comes as a solution or foam to be applied directly to the scalp. It stimulates hair regrowth, thanks to its action on the hair follicles, and can slow or stop hair loss. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to reduce the effect of androgens, particularly in cases of androgenetic alopecia. Similarly, certain specific treatments exist for pre-menopausal women, such as spironolactone, which may slow hair loss. In all cases, it is important to discuss possible contraindications and side effects with a doctor or dermatologist. When hair loss is linked to psychological factors, it is also important to identify them so they can be treated as far as possible. Generally speaking, dermatologists will work with their patients to manage the underlying causes of hair loss. Other treatments may be considered depending on the cause: supplements, dietary and lifestyle changes, corticosteroid injections or topical immunotherapy. Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors may sometimes be considered, always under medical advice. In the event of a serious burn (see dermatological emergency), particularly on the scalp or face, contact the emergency services immediately: the SAMU (15) or the fire brigade (18).