Combing Through the Myths of Hair Health
Hair 101: Understanding Hair and Hair Loss
As a clinician specializing in holistic health, I’ve treated many patients concerned about their hair loss, and I know how stressful it can be to look down at your shower drain and wonder what you can do to stop the loss!
The sheer volume of information available regarding hair health can be overwhelming, and not all of it is accurate.
Common types of hair loss include:
androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness)
telogen effluvium (shedding due to stress or illness)
alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition)
Let’s dive into some common myths about hair health.
Myth: Hair Thinning Only Happens to Men
Hair thinning, or alopecia, affects both men and women. While it's true that male pattern baldness is more common, many women also experience thinning hair, especially as they age. Female pattern hair loss is often linked to factors like hormones, genetics, and stress.
Myth: Supplements Alone Can Restore Your Hair Health
While certain supplements can support hair health, they are not a cure-all. Biotin, vitamins A, D, E, and minerals like zinc and iron are essential for hair growth. However, relying solely on supplements without addressing underlying health issues or environmental factors is unlikely to significantly improve hair growth, because it doesn’t usually address the root cause.
Myth: Your Hormones and Hair Have Nothing To Do With Each Other
Your hormones actually have a significant impact on your hair health. Conditions like thyroid imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause can lead to hair thinning and loss. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and postpartum can also cause temporary hair loss. Understanding and managing these hormonal factors are key to treating hair health issues effectively. When you work with me, we can perform a comprehensive evaluation of your thyroid function and hormones, assess for nutrient deficiencies and screen for autoimmune disorders to determine the root cause of your hair loss symptoms.
Now that We Know the Truth…
If you're struggling with hair thinning or loss, I recommend seeking professional advice. If you haven’t explored the underlying cause of hair loss, you’re unlikely to get any results from all the things you try to do to improve it. Our personalized treatment plans may include symptom and lab evaluation, dietary recommendations, hormonal assessments and treatment.
Don’t let myths and misinformation overwhelm you. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards healthier, fuller hair.
Meet Your Doctor
Hi, I’m Dr. Caitlin Fanning, ND (Naturopathic Doctor),
I help women who are struggling with hormone imbalances, fatigue, and infertility optimize their hormones and get their life back so they can feel like their best self.
If you're ready to take charge of your health and make real, lasting changes to your energy, your hormones, or your overall well-being, I would love to talk more!