How to treat hair loss?

Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on September 24, 2024
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There are many types of hair loss, such as sudden localized patchy hair loss known as alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia which is related to genetic factors and dependent on the action of androgens, also known as seborrheic alopecia, as well as postpartum hair loss due to insufficient qi and blood after childbirth, and telogen effluvium caused by rapid weight loss or dieting. The specific treatment of hair loss should be based on the corresponding cause. The cause of alopecia areata is not completely clear, and it is related to factors such as emotions, stress, endocrine disruption, and autoimmunity. Treatment generally includes oral intake of compound glycyrrhizin tablets and topical application of minoxidil. If the skin lesions are widespread or severe, the combination of corticosteroid treatment may be considered, and treatment generally lasts several months or even longer. Androgenetic alopecia often occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 and is related to familial genetics. The treatment of this condition lacks very effective remedies. Treatment options include topical minoxidil, and oral intake of finasteride. Traditional Chinese medicine has relatively good effects in treating androgenetic alopecia, including the oral intake of Chinese herbal medicine and local acupuncture treatment. Attention should be paid to avoiding staying up late and maintaining a light diet. When the hair follicles have already closed, local hair transplantation can be carried out, transferring hair from the occipital region of the scalp to the top. If the area of androgenetic alopecia is too large without sufficient follicles for transplantation, then the use of a wig should be considered. (Note: Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Does spleen deficiency cause hair loss?

Generally, patients with spleen deficiency may experience symptoms of hair loss. However, not all hair loss is due to spleen deficiency. If hair loss is induced by spleen deficiency, it generally needs to be treated by addressing the spleen deficiency regularly to see effective improvement. Diet can also help by eating more walnuts and black sesame, and by increasing the intake of high-quality proteins and vitamins. For example, consuming more eggs, fish, and oranges can greatly boost the body's immunity and provide effective nourishment.

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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 Huo Ze Jun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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The difference between kidney deficiency type hair loss and kidney insufficiency type hair loss.

Kidney deficiency-related hair loss and kidney insufficiency-type hair loss are essentially the same thing; they basically mean the same thing. Kidney deficiency can be divided into several types: one is kidney yin deficiency, typically characterized by heat in the palms and soles, dry mouth, and dry tongue; another is kidney yang deficiency, where the most typical symptom is feeling cold; there is also kidney qi deficiency, which mainly manifests as lack of strength and dislike for movement; another one is kidney essence deficiency, which includes symptoms such as dizziness and blurry vision, and can cause hair loss, among other things; there is also unstable kidney qi, where symptoms include various involuntary losses, inability to control urination, and stool that is prone to diarrhea. These symptoms belong to either unstable kidney qi or some organs prolapsing. These are various manifestations of kidney deficiency. The main clinical manifestations of hair loss due to kidney deficiency are thinning hair, accompanied by a lack of vigor, fatigue, and weakness in the lower back and legs. Its treatment should primarily focus on nourishing the kidneys. On the other hand, the type of hair loss often referred to in men, caused by an excess secretion of androgens, which leads to early balding in men, is generally not caused by kidney deficiency and should not be treated by nourishing the kidneys.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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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 Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long does it take for postpartum hair loss to recover?

Postpartum hair loss is a very common phenomenon. Generally, women's hair will gradually return to normal within six months to a year after childbirth. Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, a woman's hair may not be as thick as before, which is normal. Recovery can be facilitated by improving diet, ensuring adequate rest and sleep, exercising to enhance physical resistance, and consuming foods rich in proteins and vitamins, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits. Generally, most people can return to normal within six months to a year.