Female Hair Loss in High School

Alexis talks candidly about experiencing alopecia and female hair loss beginning in high school.

More information available at www.reallusionshair.com.

Does Being Bald Hurt You in a Job Interview?

Don’t lose out over hair loss:  Nail the job interview and get the job. In our tough economic climate, landing job opportunities has become more difficult and competitions for positions have become increasingly fierce.  Therefore, when you are invited for a job interview it is even more important to look you best – in every way possible.  If you are experiencing hair loss, it is easy to let that fact make you self-conscious or insecure, which can affect your performance in your interview.

It’s not all in your head! According to a report by Fox News in Phoenix, Arizona, balding men (and women) are less likely to be selected for positions after job interviews than men with full heads of hair.  And it doesn’t stop there! As reported in an article for Business Insider, 63% of men report that hair loss has negatively affected their career. But why? According to David Mackenna of National Hair Centers in Phoenix, Arizona, many people don’t even realize that they have biases against bald or balding individuals.  A possible explanation for this unconscious discrimination is that hair loss is often associated with aging. In our youth obsessed culture, signs of age can work against you.

The good news is that you can do something about it. Today’s modern, state-of-the-art hair restoration and men’s hair replacement techniques can make hair loss a distant memory in your professional and personal life. Many men and women report that hair replacement was one of the most significant events in their professional lives, with positive carry-over effects in their personal lives – including greater self-confidence and a more positive outlook on life.

When it comes time for the interview, express your personality in the interview. Do all of the standard preparation — research the company and professional history of your interviewer, think of stories or examples for how you’ve dealt with situations similar to those that you may face in the position, and make sure you arrive early. But more than that, show off your personality. Be charismatic and fully present.

Another important factor is your clothing and presentation. In short, dress impeccably (but don’t over-dress)! A polished professional look goes a long way to impress your interviewer, to make you stand out from other candidates, and to make you feel secure. ‘Professional’ does have to mean expensive. The fit of your clothes and neatness are far more important than expensive name brands.  Display a memorable signature style that conforms to the norms of the office you will enter while still having elements of modern fashion that express your personality. Your goal is to make sure that the interviewer can picture you as member of his or her team from the moment you walk in. Let your professionalism show through your appearance.

If you choose to make a personal investment in hair replacement, it is important to achieve as natural a look as possible.  It may hurt you more in the process if you look like you are covering something up, creating just the opposite effect of what you desire. It is therefore important to seek our a hair replacement specialist you can trust, and with whom you feel comfortable, both technically and personally.  Above all, ask to see samples of their work and ask for references.  This is an investment in yourself, and the goal is a totally natural, age-appropriate look, that is matched to not only your own hair, but your own lifestyle as well.

As you prepare for your all-important interview, an interview with a professional hair loss consultant can yield very long term results indeed.

What’s the difference between Male and Female Pattern Baldness?

Among the many biological occurrences that manifest differently for men and women, one that is especially different is cycles of hair loss. The idea of male pattern hair loss (MPHL) is widely known and often discussed. But just as there are measurable configurations of male baldness, there exist patterns for female hair loss as well. In fact, over 55% of women experience some measure of hair loss throughout their lives.

Just as Hamilton and Norwood developed a scale for male hair loss (developed by Hamilton in the 1950’s then updated by Norwood in the 1970’s), in 1977 Ludwig developed a similar scale for female pattern baldness.

Though there are other scales for both MPHL and female pattern hair loss (FPHL), these two are the most popular among practitioners and researchers when attempting to classify hair loss.

The Hamilton-Norwood scale: The Hamilton-Norwood scale has seven types of classifications and several stages within those classifications. For example, within stage 5 there are 3 levels of progression including 5, 5A, and 5V, which show variations on a receding hairline with hair loss also in the crown of a man’s head. Androgenetic alopecia, or MPHL, can begin for some men even in their teens and continue on throughout their life. The rate and onset of androgentic alopecia is highly individualized. However, it is widely accepted that there are biological determinants for hair loss and the best indicator of a man’s potential for hair loss is in his family history.

The Ludwig scale: The Ludwig scale has three primary classifications that display thinning hair, diffuse hair loss, as well as frontal hairline recession. Each image in the scale display a woman’s head with her hair parted down the middle. As an example, images I-1 through I-4 show the progression as a woman goes from no hair loss to increasingly thinning hair as indicated by a widening part. Further along in the scale, the hair loss becomes increasingly drastic. As compared to male hair loss, FPHL is not as wildly expected or accepted in society. Thus, women affected by androgentic alopecia can experience emotional and psychological distress over their condition. This scale helps to normalize their condition and provide a point from which to discuss treatment with professionals in the field of hair restoration, dermatology, and other medical professions.

The comparison: The same process of miniaturization of hair follicles and development of terminal follicles is present for both male and female pattern hair loss. Many, but not all, treatment options are comparable for men and women including medications that contain androgen enhancers, hair replacement accessories, and surgical options. Though there are similarities between MPHL and female androgenic alopecia the primary differences are that women tend toward early detection and thus early treatment; males have a higher rate of progression and earlier average age of onset; there is lower percentage of women affected by FPHL compared to the percentage of men affected; and finally, the patterns themselves are different as displayed in the two scales. Research continues to be performed on both male and female and androgenic alopecia. For now, the best way to combat it is through early detection. In both cases, treatment options are more effective and available when you begin early. Is it best to consult your physician on which treatment options might be best for you. You can also contact a hair care expert in your area to learn about hairpieces as you navigate these difficult waters.

References: Dinh QU and Sinclair R. “Female pattern hair loss: Current treatment concepts”. Dove Medical Press Limited, 2007 Jun, 2(2): 189-199 Camacho FM, Garcia-Hernandez MJ, Fernandez-Crehuet JL. “Value of hormonal levels in patients with male androgenetic alopecia treated with finasteride: better response in patients under 26 years old”. British Journal of Dermatology. 2008 May;158(5):1121-4.  

Postpartum Hair Loss

During pregnancy, your body transforms itself into an incubator, providing food, shelter and nourishment to a brand new life. After childbirth, you might be relieved to have it all over! No more morning sickness, no more hormone imbalance and the mood swings that come with it, no more weight gain…it’s finally over. After all those months you deliver and welcome the opportunity to reclaim your body as a familiar entity once again. But after delivery, over the next few months, you might start to notice more hair than normal is falling out in the shower and showing up on your hair brush. Then you look in the mirror and see that in fact you have significantly less hair then you used to. It may feel as if your hair has been coming out by the handfuls. You could be flooded with emotions and questions: Is this stress? Have I developed an illness? What’s wrong with me? What you might be experiencing is something called postpartum hair loss.

What is Postpartum Hair Loss? Postpartum hair loss is a form of telogen effluvium. It occurs suddenly and the hair loss is diffuse. This type of hair loss is not uncommon for many women. It often occurs one to six months after giving birth.

What causes Postpartum Hair Loss? In the normal cycle of hair growth, women tend to loose hair in what is called the resting stage. The hair in the resting stage, around 10% of your hair, often comes out during normal processes of maintenance. However, during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes in your body, fewer hairs actually enter that resting stage which allows it to naturally shed. For this reason, some women’s hair actually becomes fuller during pregnancy. However, after delivery, once your estrogen levels return to normal levels more hair enters the resting stage and becomes ready to shed. The telogen hairs tend to shed over a short time, around three to six months, and in large quantities. Don’t worry. This is a temporary state.

Will my hair grow back? Yes! Generally speaking, your hair will return to its normal growth cycle. The telogen hair sheds because the newly growing hair pushes out of the follicle. So shedding hair, in a sense, is a sign of recovery. In a year or less, you should make a full recovery.

What measures can I take? There aren’t many measures you can take to prevent this type of hair loss. Since it is temporary, you can try to avoid hairstyles that pull or strain you hair such as cornrows, pigtails and hair weaves after delivery. Be gentle with your hair; be conscious of the shampoos and conditioners you use, avoid fine tooth combing, blow drying and other instruments that require heat. You are also encouraged to eat healthy and balanced meals including healthy servings of fruits and vegetables with antioxidants and to take supplemental vitamins. Lastly, you should try as much as possible to reduce stress in your life.

References: American Pregnancy Association LiveStrong.com Coupe, Robert L.M. “Diagnosis of Hair Loss”. Canadian Family Physician. 1992 April, vol. 38 pp863-936  

Talking to Friends and Family about Your Hair Loss

Hair loss is a part of life for many women that impacts the relationships we have with our family, friends, and colleagues. Many people who haven’t experienced hair loss may not understand the challenge of having conversations with loved ones about hair loss. However, if you’re in the thick of it, I’m sure you know the importance of being prepared both mentally and emotionally for these conversations. Friends and family can be great supporters when they understand how and when to help.

Female Hair Loss

Women experience hair loss for a wide variety of reasons. For many, medical treatment such as chemotherapy has caused temporary hair loss. For others, hair loss occurred spontaneously and will not re-grow. Women often experience anxiety as a result of their hair loss because of concerns around the judgment of others. Many women have tried conventional and alternative solutions to help their hair grow. However, these solutions may not have worked at all or they only worked moderately and only serve to increase a sense of isolation and helplessness.

The Psychosocial Problem

Research has demonstrated that the emotional and mental issues that surface after hair loss may be more impactful than the hair loss itself. According to David H. Kingsley, PhD., research shows that hair loss often results in lowered self-esteem, increased depression and anxiety, perceived lack of self-control, and avoidance of social gatherings. While many respondents experienced these symptoms in different intensities and with varying duration, a problem experienced by many was the lack of support from friends and family.

Feeling loved, validated, and understood by the people in your life is a vital part of keeping yourself happy and healthy in the face of life’s difficulties, including female hair loss.

Help from Your Support System

Dr. Kinglsey suggests that family and friends must take the hair loss seriously. Women especially benefit from the unconditional support of their closest friends and family to walk through this difficult time together. Additionally, your physician and hair care consultants can provide encouragement and a listening ear. However, the only way that people in your life will know how to help is if you talk with them about your feelings and tell them the best way to support you.

You can begin a conversation by sharing how your hair loss began and describing the effects it has had on your life. Make sure to discuss the emotional impact of the hair loss, specifically speaking to the effects on your relationships. You can explore your reactions to hair loss by thinking through how the stress has changed across time, in different contexts, and with different people.

After you share your side of the story it is then the responsibility of your friends and family members to give a voice to their emotions and thoughts. They may have concerns and ideas that they, too, want to talk about concerning your hair loss. Listen empathically to your loved ones and offer support. Once you have both shared your emotions and reactions, there is common ground to move forward.

Preparing for Cancer Related Hair and Skin Changes

After receiving a cancer diagnosis, the last thing on your mind is your hair and skin. However, hair loss and skin changes are a very real and emotion-filled part of cancer treatment for most women. Women who think ahead and plan for these changes may find themselves less stressed and surprised than those who are not prepared. Follow the tips below to stay ahead of the wave and keep your hair and skin healthy.

1. Revitalize your skincare routine. The American Cancer Society discusses the possible skin changes that may occur during treatment, which include color changes, redness, itching, peeling, dryness, rashes, and acne. In light of these changes to your skin, your skin care routine should shift accordingly.Chemocare.com suggests staying away from perfumed products, bubble baths, and lanolin-based creams and lotions. These ingredients dry out your skin. Check the ingredients of the products you currently use. If one of your favorite products contains ingredients that may further irritate your skin, don’t throw it away! Just place the products aside until your cancer treatment is over. Temporarily replace these products with more gentle scrubs and cleansers. Substances that keep your skin hydrated include petroleum and mineral oil. Use bath oils instead of soap to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy on a daily basis
2. Choose a hair care expert. Do your research before heading to any old store to purchase a wig. It’s important to find a professional hair loss expert in your area who will take the time to consider the options with you. Jan Ping, Emmy-winning TV cosmetologist, hairstylist and cancer survivor, says, “going to a professional experienced in hair loss and hair replacement is important because they can help you and guide you through all the stages of hair loss. Trusting someone else can be a relief when you’re not feeling well.
3. Choose a wig early. When it comes to selecting a hairpiece, it’s best to take care of as much as you can pre-treatment. Women who visit a hair loss professional before losing their hair will find it much easier to select a hair loss solution that matches the color and style of their natural hair. Also, making decisions when you’re feeling healthy is much easier than choosing a wig or hair prosthesis during cancer treatment, after you have already begun to lose your hair. Your skin color and tone may look different during treatment, which may call for a hair color adjustment that may be slightly lighter or darker than your natural color. When you meet with a hair loss professional whom you trust, you can speak candidly with that person about exactly how you’d like for your hair to look.

Caring for your skin and hair is caring for yourself. Many women have kept the same skin and hair care routine for years. Even though shifting a pattern is difficult, it is essential to change your routine when your skin and hair undergo changes. If you’re coping with symptoms that are expected during cancer care, remain patient with the process and treat yourself gently.

References American Cancer Society. Understanding Chemotherapy. A Guide for Patients and Families. http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/treatmenttypes/chemotherapy/understandingchemotherapyaguideforpatientsandfamilies/understanding-chemotherapy-more-side-effects-skin-and-nail-changes National Cancer Institute. Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects. Skin and Nail Changes. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/chemo-side-effects/skin-and-nail

Hair Builders of Burlington Vermont. Custom hair loss treatment solutions for men and women. Our latest TV spot. www.hairbuilders.com.

Cancer Taunts Scare Young Boy: How to Help Your Child Cope with Bullying

According to a survey funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), 16% of American schoolchildren report being bullied by another student in the current academic term. Unfortunately, Nathan Fitzharris was a part of the 16% of bullied children. Nathan Fitzharris, aged 10, lost the hair on his head, eyebrows, and eyelashes as a result of an autoimmune disease called alopecia areata. Bullies at school convinced the young boy that he was going to die of cancer because of his hair loss. Nathan explains, “I felt upset when people said mean things but I’ve got used to it.”

Alopecia areata causes hair loss in patches. Many people struggle with the unpredictability of alopecia areata. The condition impacts each person differently. One person may loose a small patch of hair on the back of his or her head whereas another person may be completely bald. For some, hair will grow back entirely. For others, hair loss could be permanent. Given the uncertainty of the disease, a child or young teenager doesn’t need another burden like bullying.

“We were not overly surprised to learn that children with a disability are more vulnerable to bullying, because of a lower self-esteem, sometimes differences in appearance or because they have special needs,” said researcher Mariane Sentenac, of the University Paul Sabatier in Toulouse, France. If your child is working through the psychological effects of alopecia or hair loss in any of it’s many and varied forms, assisting your child in building alternate support networks is critical. Sentenac says, “In my view, good relations with teachers and parents could play an important role in preventing and detecting bullying behaviors between students because they are in a position to observe two different aspects of the adolescent’s life.”

Parents can also support children by being actively involved in their children’s lives. When parents understand the emotional and psychological impact of bullying on their children’s well-being, there is room for communication. “Improving parent-child communication and parental involvement with their children could have a substantial impact on child bullying,” said Rashmi Shetgiri, MD, MSHS, lead author of a study on bullying. Parents can begin facilitating conversations with their child in a way that empowers the child and leaves space for the child to share his/her story.

Although many young alopecia sufferes report that they “got used to” the taunts at school, this is far from ideal. Children should never feel unsafe at school or become accustomed to daily bullying.

Nothing is more important than the emotional, physical, and psychological safety of your child. Creating safe spaces to talk at home, building social networks for your child, and advocating for your child’s safety are all ways that you can help fight bullying and it’s effects.

References: Sentenac M, et al. Victims of bullying among students with a disability or chronic illness and their peers: a cross-national study between Ireland and France. J Adol Health online, 2010.

Vacuum Wigs: Basic Questions and Answers

So what exactly is a vacuum hair prosthesis? A vacuum hair prosthesis (or wig) is created by taking a mold that is tailored specifically for the curvature and shape of head. Hair is attached to the resulting base and styled to your specifications. A vacuum wig is made of hypoallergenic materials that will wisk away sweat, which often cause itching and odor. The base of the wig secures to your head via a vacuum seal that makes it extraordinarly secure. When the wig is placed on the head with a perfect shape, it creates a vacuum seal and it won’t come off unless you intentionally break the seal and remove it. The beauty of a vacuum hairpiece is that it is not necessary to use medical adhesives or tape to secure it in place. The vacuum seal alone will hold it securely in place.

Is a Vacuum hairpiece right for me? In order to create a vacuum wig, a trained hair loss professional will create a mold of your head. For a vacuum wig to work, it is also necessary that you be completely bald. This is an ideal solution for the person who is suffering from Alopecia Totalis or Alopecia Universalis. If you are suffering from hair loss, but you still have some hair on your head, there are a host of other hair loss solutions available which you can explore with your hair loss consultant.

How much does it cost? A quality vacuum hair prosthesis or wig can range in price from $1,500 to $2,900. Several fittings are usually required, and when the final wig is ready, your hair replacement clinic will “cut it in,” styling it just the way you want it. The end result is fabulous. Caring for your new wig is also extremely easy. A quality human hair wig can be styled, moussed, colored, put up, taken down, everything you can do with your own natural growing hair.

Will a vacuum wig fall off? The vacuum wig, by its nature, is extremely secure. It will not fall off like many fashion wigs you might buy online or at the mall. A custom vacuum wig or hair prosthesis will not come off unless it is taken off intentionally. To remove it, simply place your fingers underneath the edge of the wig’s base in order to release the suction.

Is a vacuum wig comfortable? A quality custom made vacuum wig is extremely comfortable. May clients report that they totally forget that it is on their head. It quite literally becomes part of you. Many people with Alopecia Totalis or Alopecia Universalis opt for this type of hair loss solution since it meets their needs and allows them the lifestyle freedom they desire.

How do I keep the hairpiece clean? Caring for a vacuum wig is similar to caring for your own naturally growing hair, since it is designed for extended wear. May clients never remove it. Simply shower and shampoo as you normally would and wash it and condition it as if it were your own growing hair.

All You Need to Know About Dandruff

If those little white flakes from your scalp have kept you away from black shirts for too long, don’t worry—there is a solution. If dandruff has got you down, you’re in good company. According to recent reports, fifty percent of people in Europe and North America have dandruff. If you’re not quite sure what dandruff is or how to treat it, here is a crash course in dandruff.

How do you treat dandruff?

One of the many myths about dandruff is that the white flakes are caused by dry skin. This myth encourages people to use heavy conditioners and oils in their hair as a way to “treat” the dandruff. “The majority of dandruff cases clear up on their own or with over-the-counter shampoos. Trying to nix flakes with moisturizing stylers like oils and pomades is only a temporary fix.

“Dandruff is actually an inflammatory scalp disease unrelated to dryness,” says Dr. McMichael. If you want to get rid of dandruff once and for all, visit your local drug store and purchase a shampoo specifically for the treatment of dandruff.

Scott McCarty, owner of Shear Pointe Hair Restoration Center in Detroit, cautions dandruff sufferers against sticking to one shampoo. “You may need to alternate between several shampoos that work for you in case one seems to lose its effectiveness or one particular shampoo is causing your hair to become unmanageable. Be sure to use a good quality conditioner as well.  This is especially important if you are wearing added hair. Your local hair replacement professional knows your scalp and hair intimately, so ask them for a product recommendation that they feel will suit your particular hair and scalp, and will also work well with your hair addition or hair replacement solution.”

If you’ve tried at-home remedies and you’re still scratching your scalp, consult your primary care physician. If you continue to itch your head, the scalp may become red, cracked, and swollen. When symptoms become severe, it’s important to seek medical attention to ensure that dandruff symptoms aren’t in fact masking a more serious disease.

Dandruff is clearly not a serious, life threatening condition. However, it is one that affects the way we view ourselves and in turn how others view us. Treating dandruff is relatively straightforward, but you have to know how to treat it first.