Is supplementing with zinc useful for seborrheic hair loss?

Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Patients with seborrheic alopecia can appropriately supplement with zinc-rich preparations and foods, which have certain auxiliary effects on the hair. Seborrheic alopecia, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a type of hair loss characterized by genetic factors and dependent on androgen action. It can occur in both men and women, though it is more common in men. Treatment mainly targets the hair follicles, and there is no particularly effective cure. Treatments can include topical application of 2% or 5% minoxidil solution, oral administration of finasteride, and for women, oral spironolactone can be used. If necessary, treatment can be supplemented with traditional Chinese medicine and scalp acupuncture, including plum blossom needle therapy. For cases of seborrheic alopecia where the hair follicles have significantly atrophied, scalp transplantation and hair transplantation may also be options. Patients with seborrheic alopecia should also pay attention to their diet by consuming light, nutritious foods and avoiding spicy and irritating substances. It is beneficial to consume foods containing high-quality complex proteins and various vitamins, including vitamins, trace elements, zinc, copper, calcium, etc., all of which assist in hair growth.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What are the causes of male seborrheic alopecia?

Male seborrheic alopecia is also called androgenetic alopecia, which is related to excessive secretion of endogenous androgens leading to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands. Excessive secretion of sebaceous glands makes the hair follicles loose and buoyant, so the hair roots are not firm and will fall out. It is also related to family genetics; most men in the same family will exhibit similar symptoms of hair loss. Once this condition occurs, formal treatment can bring about some improvement. However, most men may experience recurrent hair loss as they age into their 40s or 50s, and this hair loss is irreversible. Generally speaking, it becomes difficult to completely cure with age.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Difference between seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic hair loss

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that occurs in areas with excessive sebum secretion, such as the face, chest, and back. Seborrheic dermatitis is not the same as seborrheic hair loss, although some patients with seborrheic dermatitis may also experience hair loss. Generally, seborrheic dermatitis starts on the face and then spreads downwards to other areas, accompanied by varying degrees of itching, and is commonly seen in adults and newborns. Seborrheic dermatitis is associated with factors such as psychological stress, dietary habits, deficiencies in B vitamins, alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. As it often starts or is primarily localized on the scalp, symptoms can worsen and spread to other areas. The disease tends to occur in areas that are oily, hairy, and sweaty. As the sebaceous glands open into the hair follicles, the initial skin lesions of seborrheic dermatitis are usually small, red papules around the hair follicles. As the condition progresses, these papules can develop into red patches. Some patients may also have oily scales or crusts, as well as varying degrees of hair loss.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can hair loss be inherited?

Hair loss generally has two common types: alopecia areata and seborrheic alopecia. Seborrheic alopecia has a certain hereditary nature, whereas alopecia areata does not have a hereditary aspect. Most cases are related to deficiencies in vitamins, trace elements, or low immunity. Seborrheic alopecia has some hereditary factors and is a genetic disease carried by males in the family. Once this disease occurs, it is not easy to completely eradicate and tends to worsen with age. Generally, one can take oral medications to reduce oil secretion, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and avoid staying up late and stress. It is advisable to wash hair with lukewarm or cold water, and avoid using very hot water. After recovery, it is important to exercise more, consume more vegetables and fruits, and supplement vitamins and trace elements.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can seborrheic hair loss grow back?

Seborrheic alopecia, also medically known as androgenic alopecia, is generally more common in men, with a relatively lower incidence rate in women. The occurrence of this disease is mostly related to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands, or it can be said to have a certain relation to family genetics. The condition can be improved with standard treatment, but it may not fully recover, especially for patients with severe symptoms, such as receding hairlines or baldness, who find treatment rather challenging. Generally, standard treatment at a dermatology department of a formal hospital can restore about 80% of the original condition, which is considered quite effective. Complete recovery is generally difficult to achieve clinically. Treatment can include oral and topical medications, and can also be complemented with long-term conditioning using traditional Chinese medicine.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Hair loss is divided into several types.

There are many types of hair loss, mainly including androgenic alopecia, neurogenic alopecia, endocrine alopecia, nutritional alopecia, and physical alopecia. Androgenic alopecia is clinically known as seborrheic alopecia, while neurogenic alopecia is also called alopecia areata. Therefore, if you notice a significant amount of hair loss, it is essential to promptly identify the cause. In addition to the types of hair loss mentioned above, there may also be chemical-induced hair loss, infectious hair loss, symptomatic hair loss, congenital hair loss, seasonal hair loss, and other types.