As we age, our hair follicles undergo changes just like every other part of our body, leading to increased hair shedding and hair loss. While hair loss and shedding might appear to be similar, it’s important to recognize their differences as they often stem from distinct causes and call for different treatments.
Normal Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss
You can tell the difference between normal hair shedding and hair loss by observing the amount of hair you lose daily and noticing changes in your hair thickness over time.
Hair Shedding: Not Usually a Concern
Hair shedding is a natural and cyclical process that occurs as part of the hair growth cycle.
On average, adults shed between 50 to 100 hairs per day, which is considered normal. This type of hair shedding usually isn’t a concern if it does not result in noticeable thinning or bald patches.
Hair Loss: Sometimes a Sign of a Health Condition
Hair loss (or anagen effluvium) involves a significant decrease in hair density or the development of bald patches on the scalp.
While hair shedding is not usually a sign of an underlying health condition, hair loss can be.
Unlike hair shedding, hair loss can sometimes occur with other symptoms such as itching, burning or tenderness of the scalp.
Hair loss can be caused by factors such as:
- Aging
- Genetics/hereditary factors
- Drastic changes in weight
- Low nutrient intake
- Hormonal imbalances
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medical conditions
- Harsh treatment of the hair and scalp, such as using very irritating products
- Some medications or treatments, including chemotherapy
When to Seek Medical Help for Hair Loss
If you’re experiencing excessive hair shedding or noticeable hair loss, it’s a good idea to visit a dermatologist or healthcare provider for an evaluation.
While some degree of hair shedding is normal, persistent or worsening hair loss can indicate an underlying issue that requires medical care in some cases. In other cases, hair loss due to aging Your dermatologistcan tell you whether you’re experiencing hair shedding or hair loss, and help determine why it’s happening.
Treatments for Hair Loss
Hair loss can sometimes correct itself, such as if a medication is stopped, but in most cases, it needs to be treated for hair to grow back.
Dermatologists are able to use regenerative medicine and innovative treatments to address hair loss and promote hair growth. Two treatment options for hair loss include exosome therapy (a type of regenerative medicine) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
Exosome Therapy
Exosome therapy utilizes natural nanoparticles called exosomes to stimulate cellular repair and regeneration in the hair follicles. Exosomes contain a potent combination of growth factors, peptides, cytokines, and mRNA that target hair’s cellular structures, providing the nutrients and resources necessary for hair regrowth.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections involve removing platelets from the patient’s blood and injecting them into the scalp to help stimulate hair growth. The growth factors in PRP promote cell growth, reproduction, and differentiation during the hair follicle remodeling phase, often resulting in thicker and healthier hair.
If you’re concerned about how much hair shedding you’re experiencing and looking for help addressing hair loss, consult a dermatologist specializing in hair disorders.
Stony Brook’s Dermatology Associates offers comprehensive skin and hair care treatments for a wide range of dermatological concerns. With a team of skilled dermatologists and state-of-the-art facilities, our center is dedicated to providing patients with top-quality services to achieve optimal skin and hair health.
