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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How long will postpartum hair loss last?

Postpartum hair loss is a common physiological phenomenon among women after giving birth, but it is unpredictable how long the hair loss will last. For most women, postpartum hair loss can persist for six months to a year, after which hair growth gradually returns to normal. It is important to prevent hair loss after childbirth. For example, it is advisable not to wash hair too frequently; washing every three days is generally sufficient. Additionally, it is important to enhance nutrition and maintain a balanced diet, as the most important source for hair is protein. Therefore, consuming more protein-rich foods is recommended.

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Written by Liu Gang
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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 Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How to treat seborrheic hair loss?

Seborrheic alopecia, also medically known as androgenetic alopecia, is associated with excessive secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands, consumption of spicy and stimulating foods, or frequent staying up late. Most patients have a certain genetic predisposition, with parents also displaying similar hair loss. Upon encountering this condition, it is necessary to treat it with medication. The most commonly used medications include Vitamin B6 tablets, finasteride tablets, and anti-grease hair growth tablets. These medications require long-term usage, and the treatment period is relatively long, lasting at least one to three months or more, to potentially control the condition. Topical medications can include the use of minoxidil solution. It is important to maintain a proper diet and lifestyle, strengthened exercise, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, and persisting long-term to possibly prevent the recurrence of the condition.

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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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Dermatology
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What is hair loss lacking?

Hair loss is often related to deficiencies in vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B, and trace elements including iron, zinc, and calcium. It is also related to the lack of nutritional factors, such as a deficiency in high-quality protein, which can lead to hair loss. Hair loss can be associated with many factors, including nutrition, diet, neurological and mental factors, as well as certain diseases including endocrine disorders and immune system diseases that can cause hair loss. Therefore, when experiencing hair loss, it's important to carefully analyze the reasons, and visit a hospital to determine the specific causes. If the cause is a deficiency in trace elements and vitamins, appropriate supplements should be provided. If it is caused by diseases, timely treatment of the primary disease is necessary. In terms of diet, it is also important to consume foods rich in protein and vitamins.