agape-hair-wellness

The Connection Between Winter Wellness and Healthy Hair Growth

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:08:59 GMT

As the colder months set in, many people notice an increase in hair shedding and scalp dryness. While it’s easy to blame winter weather for lackluster locks, the reality is that your overall wellness plays a significant role in hair health. From proper nutrition to stress management, taking care of your body can help you maintain strong, healthy hair—even during winter.

The Role of Diet and Supplements in Combating Winter Hair Shedding

Your hair is a reflection of your internal health, and winter poses unique challenges for your body. With shorter days and limited access to fresh produce, nutrient deficiencies can creep in, leading to hair shedding. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp and promoting hair growth.

Here are some key nutrients that support hair health:

Vitamin D: Limited sunlight in winter can lower your vitamin D level, which is crucial for hair follicle health. A simple blood test can check your Vitamin D level, also adding oily fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel or egg yolks can increase Vitamin D.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids are needed for hair growth due to their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve the flow of blood and nutrients to the scalp. To increase Omega—3’s add chia, flax or hemp seeds, walnuts, almonds and fish oil to your diet.
Iron and Zinc: Deficiencies in iron and zinc can contribute to hair loss. To combat this, add iron- and zinc-rich ingredients like spinach, kale, apricots, dates, and nuts to your smoothie for a nutrient-rich blend that supports hair growth.

To ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs, consider adding high-quality supplements to your routine. The AGAPE Store offers a range of products specifically designed to support hair and scalp health.

Tips for Reducing Stress to Prevent Hair Thinning

Stress is a silent saboteur of hair health. Chronic stress disrupts your hormonal balance, leading to conditions like telogen effluvium, where hair follicles prematurely enter the shedding phase. In winter, stress levels can spike due to the holiday rush, financial pressures, and reduced daylight hours.

To protect your hair, try incorporating these stress management techniques:

Mindfulness Practices: Meditation and deep breathing exercises can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.
Physical Activity: Exercise increases blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your scalp.
Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep to allow your body to repair and regenerate.

If stress is affecting your hair, consider booking a 15-minute consultation with AGAPE Hair + Wellness. Their experts can provide personalized advice and recommend solutions tailored to your needs.

Holistic Care with AGAPE Hair + Wellness

At AGAPE Hair + Wellness, we believe that healthy hair starts from within. Our approach combines expert guidance, premium products, and holistic care to help you achieve your hair goals. Whether you’re looking to combat winter shedding, reduce stress, or optimize your nutrition, we’re here to support you.

Schedule a 15-minute consultation to discuss your unique hair and wellness journey. Together, we can create a plan to keep your hair and scalp healthy all winter long.

Embrace winter wellness and watch your hair thrive!

Postpartum Hair Loss: Understanding and Combating It

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:41:07 GMT

Motherhood is a beautiful journey, and it comes with its fair share of challenges. For many women, postpartum hair loss is an unexpected and often distressing side effect of giving birth. If you’re experiencing this, know that you are not alone, and there are effective ways to manage and restore your hair’s health. At AGAPE Hair + Wellness in Phoenix, Arizona, we specialize in helping women navigate postpartum hair loss with tailored solutions designed to promote hair and scalp health.

What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?

During pregnancy, elevated hormone levels, particularly estrogen, extend the growth phase of hair, typically resulting in fuller, thicker locks. However, after giving birth, estrogen and other key hormones rapidly shift; causing too many hair follicles to enter the shedding phase all at once. This phenomenon, known as telogen effluvium, typically peaks around three to four months postpartum.

How to Combat Postpartum Hair Loss

While postpartum hair loss is temporary and usually resolves within 6 to 12 months, there are steps you can take to support your hair’s recovery and minimize shedding:

Nourish Your Body

Proper nutrition is essential for healthy hair growth. Focus on a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as:

– Biotin: Found in eggs, nuts, and seeds, biotin strengthens hair and supports growth.

– Iron: Leafy greens, beans, and lean meats help replenish iron levels, vital for preventing hair loss.

– Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon, these nutrients promote scalp health.

– Prioritize consuming high-quality macro and micronutrients that promote hair growth and strength such as Marshmallow root, Nettle leaf, and Horsetail leaf—key ingredients in our Beauty Blend Tea.

Be Gentle with Your Hair

– Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair gently.

– Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on your scalp.

– Opt for sulfate-free, hydrating shampoos and conditioners to minimize breakage.

Scalp Care

A healthy scalp is the foundation of strong, resilient hair. Regular scalp massages can improve circulation and stimulate hair follicles. You can also consult with our experts to explore the best options from our line of scalp detoxification and exfoliation kits and growth serums.

Consult a Professional

Postpartum hair loss can sometimes overlap with other conditions like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid imbalances. A consultation with our hair health expert can help identify underlying issues and recommend personalized treatments. At AGAPE Hair + Wellness, we offer Free 15-minute consultations to discuss your concerns and create a plan tailored to your needs.

When to Seek Help

If you notice significant thinning or bald spots, or if your hair loss persists beyond your baby’s 1st birthday, it’s time to consult a professional. Early intervention can make a significant difference in achieving optimal results.

Your Hair Restoration Journey Starts Here

Don’t let postpartum hair loss dampen your joy. At AGAPE Hair + Wellness Center here in Phoenix or with a Virtual treatment plan, we’re here to support you with compassionate care and effective solutions. Schedule your Free 15-minute consultation today.

Keeping Your Hair with Chemotherapy: What You Need to Know

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 12:54:06 GMT

Need chemotherapy…now what?

Chemotherapy is a crucial treatment for fighting cancer, but it often comes with the distressing side effect of hair loss. However, losing all your hair isn’t inevitable anymore.

How can you keep your hair?

Our Chemo Care & Hair Preservation Program is designed to support you through every stage of your treatment journey, from preparation to recovery.

Home Care Program

Custom Blended Plant-Based Oils, Serums, and Tonics : These nourish your scalp and hair follicles, promoting strength and health.
Scalp Detoxification and Exfoliation : Essential for maintaining a clean and receptive scalp environment.

In-Office Care Program

Building upon the home care program, our in-office treatments include:

Oxygen Therapy : Enhances scalp circulation and promotes hair follicle health…
Electric Scalp Stimulation : Stimulates follicles and encourages hair growth and strength.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) : Proven to stimulate growth phase and improve follicle health.
Microneedling : Promotes stem (growth) cell production and enhances the absorption of topical treatments.

Specialized Tools and Techniques

We are certified to help you access and utilize:

Scalp Cooling Caps : These innovative caps significantly reduce hair loss by constricting blood vessels in the scalp, minimizing the impact of chemotherapy drugs on hair follicles.

About Scalp Cooling Caps

Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which includes both cancer cells and hair follicles. This is why hair loss commonly occurs during treatment. Scalp cooling caps work by:

Constricting Blood Vessels : The coldness of the cap tightens blood vessels in the scalp, reducing the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach the hair follicles.
Protecting Hair Follicles : By limiting exposure to chemotherapy drugs, scalp cooling caps help preserve your hair during treatment.

Cranial Prosthetics

For those needing complete hair replacement, we offer medical-grade wigs known as cranial prosthetics. These are custom-fitted and can integrate seamlessly with existing hair or serve as a full replacement, depending on your needs.

Conclusion

Losing hair during chemotherapy is a common concern, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. With our comprehensive Chemo Care & Hair Preservation Program, including innovative treatments like scalp cooling caps and personalized care plans, you can maintain your hair and focus on healing.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you through your chemotherapy journey with dignity and confidence.

Advanced Hair Loss Solutions: Clinical & Surgical Treatments for Alopecia

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:12:36 GMT

September is Alopecia Awareness Month, and each week we’re tackling some of the most frequently asked questions about hair loss.

Question: What are my options for hair loss treatment?

Answer: In our previous segment, we discussed home and over-the-counter remedies. Now, let’s explore the ever-growing number of clinical and surgical options. These treatments are typically considered when non-invasive methods don’t produce the desired results. Keep in mind, they often carry more risks, can be more painful, and are generally much more costly.

We’ll break them down into two categories: Minimally Invasive and Very Invasive/Surgical treatments.

Minimally Invasive Clinical Treatments

Low-Level Laser Therapy: Uses infrared light to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate hair growth by activating stem cells.

Prescription Medications: Some reduce inflammation that destroys hair follicles, others target hormonal processes that shrink follicles, and others help treat scalp infections.

Microneedling: This technique creates tiny wounds on the scalp to stimulate growth cells. When combined with follicle-regenerating ingredients, it allows deeper penetration and more effective results.

Scalp Micropigmentation: A cosmetic tattooing method that creates tiny dots on the scalp, mimicking the appearance of a fuller head of hair.
Direct Scalp Injections: These can include ingredients like steroids, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), or exosomes to boost hair regrowth and scalp health.

Very Invasive/Surgical Procedures

Follicular Unit Extraction Individual hair follicles are extracted from the scalp and transplanted to thinning or balding areas.

Follicular Unit Transplantation: A strip of the scalp is removed, and hair follicles are extracted from it and transplanted into areas with thinning hair. .

Scalp Reduction: This surgical procedure removes the bald areas of the scalp, pulling together sections with remaining hair to cover larger bald spots.

A word of caution : If you’re considering clinical or surgical treatments for hair loss, DO YOUR RESEARCH! These options should be carefully evaluated, and we highly recommend scheduling an evaluation with us to discuss what’s best for your situation before taking the next step.

Explore Your Hair Loss Treatment Options

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:25:23 GMT

September is Alopecia Awareness Month, and each week, we’re addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about hair loss. Our goal is to shed light on its symptoms, causes, treatments, and more.

Question: What are my options for hair loss treatment?

Answer: Sooo many! From home remedies to clinical treatments, it all depends on your needs. Let’s explore the options together!

As we’ve discussed earlier in this series, there are numerous types of hair loss, and because of that, treatment options are just as varied. Choosing the right treatment is a highly personal decision, depending on factors such as your goals, the type and severity of hair loss, your tolerance for discomfort, the time you can dedicate to treatment, and the financial investment you’re willing to make.

This week, let’s focus on home and over-the-counter treatments.

At Agape, we take a holistic approach to hair loss treatment. Our goal is to empower you with personalized solutions that begin at home, including a diet plan tailored to your individual needs, a specific scalp care regimen, and methods that stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles.
Other methods of addressing hair loss that fall into this category include items that conceal and camouflage hair loss such as volumizing powders or sprays and cranial prosthetics (“medical” wigs and hairpieces) that are fully customized to disguise hair loss. Some prosthetics may be covered by medical insurance plans.
While there are countless over-the-counter supplements and online hair growth aids available, we advocate for a more targeted approach. We use medically certified supplements only when a specific nutritional deficiency is identified. This method eliminates guesswork and allows us to track your progress over time, ensuring that you’re investing in what truly works for your body.

It’s important to note that many home and over-the-counter treatments are unproven and can lead to complications over time, both physically and financially.

If you’re currently using or considering such treatments, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. We’ll help you navigate the options and find what works best for you.

Stay tuned for next week’s segment, where we’ll dive into clinical and surgical treatment options for hair loss!

Your Questions Answered: Could Your Hair Loss Signal a Deeper Issue

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 13:30:44 GMT

September is Alopecia (Hair Loss) Awareness Month! Each week, we’re diving into one of the most common questions we receive about hair loss, shedding light on symptoms, causes, treatments and much more.

Question: Can hair loss be a sign of something serious?

Answer: Absolutely YES! In fact, hair loss is often a clue that something’s going on within the body. In other words: Hair loss is a SYMPTOM!

Let’s start with the basics: the hair follicle.

Each follicle is like a tiny, vital organ, receiving its blood supply from the same network that nourishes your major organs and tissues. When there’s a disturbance—be it inflammation, hormonal imbalances, organ failure, toxic exposure, or nutritional deficiencies—your follicles suffer too! When they don’t get what they need, or when toxins interfere, the hair strands can break, shed or simply fail to grow, leaving you with thinning or bald patches.

In some cases, dealing with the problem is straightforward, like with iron deficiency anemia. Treating the underlying issue (anemia) with a supplement is usually the answer. However, for more complex conditions such as kidney failure or lupus, a comprehensive medical evaluation is crucial. This involves a detailed medical workup to diagnose the cause, create a treatment plan, and restore your overall health.

At Agape, we’re dedicated to getting to the root of your hair loss concerns. We take a meticulous approach—asking the right questions, conducting thorough examinations, and, if necessary, obtaining additional lab work.

Worried that your hair loss might be a sign of something more serious? Don’t hesitate! Reach out to us for a FREE 15-minute evaluation. Call, chat, or text us to get your questions answered and take the first step towards understanding and addressing your hair loss concerns.

Stay tuned each week for more insights during Alopecia Awareness Month, and remember: your hair’s story could be telling you something important about your health!

Hair Loss After COVID? You’re Likely Suffering From COVID-Related Alopecia

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:25:15 GMT

WHAT IS IT?

Hair loss associated with current or recent COVID-19 infection. The pattern, timing, severity, and recovery from COVID-related alopecia varies widely. Clinical studies have recently identified hair loss syndromes that may be risk factors for COVID-19 infection, triggered by COVID-19 infection or aggravated by COVID-19 infection. Much more research is needed before these syndromes can be fully understood.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR COVID-Related Alopecia

Any person with current or recent COVID-19 infection; the prevalence in women is higher than in men. Persons with pre-existing androgenetic alopecia (AGA) (male and female pattern hair loss) may be at risk for COVID-19 infection and possibly more severe infection than those without the disease.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF COVID-Related Alopecia?

Early research has established that a variety of hair loss symptoms seem to be associated with COVID-19, the most common include:

androgenetic alopecia (AGA) which may be a risk factor for COVID-19 infection

AGA in men begins above the temples, over time the hairline recedes back towards the crown. In women, it appears as gradual thinning near the crown, however, the hairline typically stays intact.

telogen effluvium (TE) which may be triggered by COVID-19 infection

TE is characterized by dramatic hair shedding from the entire scalp or certain regions within 2-3 months of a triggering event such as an infection, serious organ dysfunction or malnutrition, hormonal disorders or severe stress. TE is reported more frequently in women.

alopecia areata (AA) which may relapse or worsen due to COVID-19 infection

AA presents as bald patches anywhere in the scalp due to an immune response that attacks hair follicles. This disorder can occur at any age but commonly initially appears during childhood or teens and can reappear anytime.

Deeper than hair:

The discovery of a hair loss disorder (androgenetic alopecia) that appears to be a risk factor for COVID-19 infection is significant. It has led to further studies that may shed light on prevention and treatment for COVID-19. The relationship between COVID-19 and hair loss, in general, may be a factor in identifying persons at risk for more severe disease from COVID or its long-term effects.

WHAT CAUSES COVID-Related Alopecia ?

The relationship between AGA and COVID-19 is thought to be the effect of male circulating hormones on the ability of the COVID-19 virus to infect cells.

TE appears to be triggered by the body’s complex inflammatory response to the virus.

Relapses or worsening of AA may be attributed to an immune response to the virus that subsequently attacks previously vulnerable hair follicles.

WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT COVID-Related Alopecia?

Solutions for COVID-related alopecia depend on the type of hair loss syndrome experienced and the stage of the infection. To date, no COVID- specific remedy for hair loss has been FDA approved. Since COVID-19 can have both short and long-term effects, in some cases, symptoms may resolve in weeks-months without intervention.

The right diagnosis is the KEY! The signs and symptoms of COVID-Related Alopecia can mimic those of other hair loss disorders. See a certified trichologist or dermatologist who specializes in hair loss to properly identify any hair loss issue that may be due to COVID infection.

Experiencing symptoms of COVID related Alopecia? DO NOT WAIT!

Get help from our certificated trichologist (hair loss specialist)

Book an evaluation today.

REFERENCES:

Nguyen B, Tosti A. Alopecia in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta analysis. JAAD Int. 2022;7:67-77. doi:10.1016/j.jdin.2022.02.006
Gentile P. Hair Loss and Telogen Effluvium Related to COVID-19: The Potential Implication of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma as Regenerative Strategies. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(16):9116. Published 2022 Aug 14. doi:10.3390/ijms23169116
Seyfi S, Alijanpour R, Aryanian Z, Ezoji K, Mahmoudi M. Prevalence of telogen effluvium hair loss in COVID-19 patients and its relationship with disease severity. J Med Life. 2022;15(5):631-634. doi:10.25122/jml-2021-0380
Kalner S, Vergilis I. Retrospective Study of Covid Related Hair Loss. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(7):724-727. doi:10.36849/JDD.6661

Are You Thinning? You May Be Experiencing Female Pattern Hair Loss

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:19:19 GMT

WHAT IS IT?

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common type of hair loss among adult women

WHO IS AT RISK FOR FPHL

The risk for FPHL increases as we age, onset usually peaks in both the 30’s and 50’s. Risk is higher among those with a family history of hair loss. A related, yet clinically different disorder, early-onset FPHL can occur in girls of school age and even younger. In this blog, we will focus on adult-onset FPHL.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FPHL?

FPHL looks like:

Gradual thinning at the top of the scalp, usually begins at the center and proceeds over time across the top of the head but rarely causing complete baldness. The loss of hair volume may go unrecognized for many years. Typically, the frontal hairline remains intact.

FPHL feels like:

There is rarely any discomfort from FPHL.

Deeper than hair:

FPHL can be associated with hormone imbalances which may point to serious kidney and ovarian disorders. Psychological stress from FPHL can be significant and life-altering. A recent study revealed that hair loss can result in distress manifested in lowered self-esteem, guilt, and disturbances in sleep, daily functioning, and social activities.

WHAT CAUSES FPHL?

Modern research has yet to furnish a complete understanding of the factors that cause FPHL. There are clear genetic influences; more recent studies have identified several chromosome variants that are linked to the disease. The level of male hormones in the bloodstream also seems to play a role in the hair follicle regression typically found in FPHL. More research is needed to fully understand this disease.

WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT FPHL?

Solutions for FPHL depend on the stage of the disease.

The right diagnosis is the KEY! The signs and symptoms of FPHL can mimic those of other hair loss disorders. See a certified trichologist or dermatologist who specializes in hair loss to properly identify any hair loss issue.

Home-based remedies:

Minoxidil solution can be purchased OTC and applied to the scalp. It is FDA-approved and research studies have documented it’s efficacy. Keep in mind that there can be side effects and treatment must be continued for life to maintain results.

Low-level laser therapy bands, combs, caps, and helmets can be purchased online. These devices have been FDA-cleared and have demonstrated significant hair regrowth in numerous research studies.

Pharmaceutical treatments for FPHL include Spironolactone [CaroSpir, Aldactone], Finasteride [Propecia, Proscar], Cyproterone acetate [Androcur, Diane] and Flutamide [Eulexin]. These are potent hormone disruptors that alter the level of male hormones in the bloodstream by blocking receptors, preventing testosterone conversion, and/or reducing male hormone production. Each may have significant side effects (including birth defects if taken during pregnancy) and must be prescribed by a medical provider.

Concealment/Camouflage

Volumizing hairstyles, powders, sprays, and foams may give thinning hair more body and disguise bald patches.

Cranial prosthetics (“medical” wigs and hairpieces) can be customized to be integrated into existing hair to provide coverage, add length and volume or be custom fit as a complete hair replacement. Some may be covered by medical insurance plans.

Hair accessories such as scarves, turbans, hair clips, and hats may be helpful.

Surgical treatments:

Hair transplant using techniques such as micro-grafting, mini-grafting, and follicular unit transplantation.

Scalp reduction involves surgical removal of the central bald area of the scalp, bringing the areas that still have hair closer together.

Transplantation and scalp reduction may be effective; however, such options are expensive, painful, and require extended follow-up and recovery times. Both procedures may provide less than optimal results over time due to the underlying condition and will not likely be covered by insurance plans.

Experiencing symptoms of FPHL? DO NOT WAIT!

Get help from our certificated trichologist (hair loss specialist)

Book an evaluation today.

REFERENCES:

Dinh QQ, Sinclair R. Female pattern hair loss: current treatment concepts. Clin Interv Aging. 2007;2(2):189-199.
Jungyoon Ohn, Ho-Young Son, Da-Ae Yu, Min Su Kim, Sijin Kwon, Won-Seok Park, Jong-Il Kim, Ohsang Kwon, Early onset female pattern hair loss: A case–control study for analyzing clinical features and genetic variants, Journal of Dermatological Science, Volume 106, Issue 1, 2022, Pages 21-28, ISSN 0923-1811,
Khatu SS, More YE, Gokhale NR, Chavhan DC, Bendsure N. Platelet-rich plasma in androgenic alopecia: myth or an effective tool. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2014;7(2):107-110. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.138352
Ramos PM, Miot HA. Female Pattern Hair Loss: a clinical and pathophysiological review. An Bras Dermatol. 2015;90(4):529-543. doi:10.1590/abd1806-4841.20153370

What’s Up With Your Edges? Let’s Talk About Traction Alopecia Hair Loss

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:13:41 GMT

WHAT IS IT?

Traction alopecia (TA) is a type of hair loss, typically at the frontal hairline, but may be found in any area (crown, temples) where hair and scalp have been kept under tension or exposed to glue or friction for extended periods of time. Over time the hair loss may become permanent.

Traction Alopecia is a 100% preventable hair loss syndrome.

TA affects as many as 1/3 of all women of African descent. Even more alarming, in a study surveying African American girls between the ages of 5 and 14 years old, 18% showed signs of TA.

TA can be classified into 3 stages:

prevention those at risk who have not yet experienced signs or symptoms
intervention those with mild to moderate hair loss – treatment has high success rate
remediation those with severe hair loss and permanent scarring – treatment has lower success rate

WHO IS AT RISK FOR TA?

Persons of any gender, race, or age who traumatize their hair follicles with repeated and prolonged wearing of braids, ponytails, cornrows, locks, weaves, rollers and extensions.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF TA?

Traction Alopecia looks like:

Hair loss, typically at the frontal hairline but may be any area where hair was kept under tension (crown, temples) or glued down for extended periods of time.
Redness, pimples, and crusts may be present.
A region of hair loss along the frontal hair line with the retention of shorter, finer hairs in a linear pattern is often seen and is known as the “fringe sign”.
In the later stages thinning and balding may present.

Traction Alopecia feels like:

Pain, itch, and sensitivity at the site.

WHAT CAUSES TA?

TA is the result of hair follicle trauma caused by repeated and prolonged wearing of braids, ponytails, cornrows, locks, weaves, rollers and extensions. This especially includes styles that require bonding glue or thread. Recent studies have suggested that hair that is relaxed and/or colored is more susceptible to TA.

TA is not limited to modern women of African descent, in fact, the disorder was identified as early as 1907 in Greenlandic women who wore traditional hairstyles with tightly coiffed buns. Similar observations were made in the mid-late 1900s in Japanese and French peasant women and Sikh males who wear turbans.

Deeper than hair:

The psychosocial impacts of hair loss must also be considered. In a study of South African Black women who presented to a dermatologist with alopecia, 56.3% reported reduced quality of life with regard to self-image, and 34% reported negative impacts to relationships and interactions with people. These data represent small studies but reveal an enormous burden of longstanding social, cultural, and spiritual wounds caused by hair loss.

WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT TA?

Solutions for TA depend on the stage of the disease.

The right diagnosis is the KEY! The signs and symptoms of TA can mimic those of other hair loss disorders. See a certified trichologist or dermatologist who specializes in hair loss to properly identify any hair loss issue.

Prevention:

Education is the key! We must spread the word about the risk factors and signs/symptoms of TA. Proper hair care including, shampooing, moisturizing, scalp descaling, and safe, attractive, and easy-to-maintain cuts and styles is essential. Youth, parents, children and adolescents should seek guidance from a trichologist or experienced cosmetologist as a family to assure a common understanding. The education of youth presents the greatest opportunity for intervention because hair follicles are most vulnerable during this period.

Intervention

In its early stages, TA can be reversible because the hair follicles remain intact. The most important strategy is a change in hair grooming that significantly reduces the intensity and duration of tension. In addition, it is important to avoid and/or reduce high heat styling, bonding glue, sew-ins, chemical colorants and relaxers.
Every effort should be made to eat a healthy diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods high in micronutrients, protein, and healthy fats. A trichologist may assist with diet and supplement recommendations and low-level laser therapy.
If there is evidence of inflammation or infection you should see a medical provider who may prescribe oral, injectable, or topical corticosteroids and/or antibiotics. To enhance hair regrowth, you may also be prescribed oral or topical Minoxidil along with platelet-rich plasma, exosome and micro-needling treatments. Peri-menopausal and menopausal women should also address hormone status and consider hormone replacement therapy.

Remediation

Once TA has progressed, areas of hair loss are typically large and involve permanent scarring. A specialized exam called trichoscopy (taking images using a high magnification camera) of the scalp should be performed by a trichologist to determine the appropriate next steps. Depending on the results you may consider options such as cranial prosthetics (“medical” wigs), hair transplant using techniques such as micro-grafting, mini-grafting, and follicular unit transplantation. Transplantation may be effective; however, such options are expensive, painful, and require extended follow-up and recovery times. Meticulous documentation should be performed to facilitate insurance reimbursement, if available.

Experiencing symptoms of TA? DO NOT WAIT!

Get help from our certificated trichologist (hair loss specialist)

Book an evaluation today.

REFERENCES:

Billero V, Miteva M. Traction alopecia: the root of the problem. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2018;11:149-159. Published 2018 Apr 6. doi:10.2147/CCID.S137296
Dlova NC, Fabbrocini G, Lauro C, Spano M, Tosti A, Hift RH. Quality of life in South African Black women with alopecia: a pilot study. Int J Dermatol. 2016;55(8):875-881. doi:10.1111/ijd.13042
Gathers RC, Mahan MG. African American Women, Hair Care, and Health Barriers. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(9):26-29.
Hair Wigs and Extensions Market – Global Outlook and Forecast 2021-2026 https://www.reportlinker.com/p05822878/Hair-Wigs-and-Extensions-Market-Global-Outlook-and-Forecast.html?utm_source=GNW
Pratt LA, Brody DJ. Depression in the U.S. household population, 2009-2012. NCHS Data Brief. 2014;(172):1-8.
Pulickal JK, Kaliyadan F. Traction Alopecia. [Updated 2021 Aug 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470434/

Burning, Itching And/Or Tender Scalp? Beware Of This Condition: Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:07:48 GMT

The battle won against hair loss begins once we have the right information. Knowledge is POWER! At Agape Body and Soul we desire to empower you to seek care early, without hesitation or shame and ask the right questions. You deserve thorough answers with solutions that apply the principles of holistic healthcare (incorporating the mind, body, and soul) to live your best life.

WHAT IS IT?Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (also known as CCCA)

Central = referring to the central (crown) part of the scalp

Centrifugal = a round or circular pattern

Cicatricial = scarring of tissues

Alopecia = hair loss

The most common type of scarring alopecia seen in Black women is Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA). While conservative estimates place the prevalence of CCCA at anywhere from 2.7% to 5.7%, it is likely that the numbers affected are much higher because people with CCCA often remain untreated and suffer in silence with this devastating disease. Wigs and weaves are often used to cover up the effects of this disease but they actually do more damage.

CCCA is progressive, destructive and, if left untreated, the hair loss may be permanent. Early recognition and treatment are critical.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CCCA?

***CCCA may FEEL like scalp tenderness, burning, and itching usually in the crown area.

***CCCA may LOOK like redness of the scalp, thinning, dry, brittle hair with breakage, and baldness (in the later stages) usually in the crown area.

Hair Not Growing? This may be the problem.

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:02:04 GMT

HAIR BREAKAGE

WHAT IS IT?

The technical term for hair breakage is Trichorrexis Nodosa. This condition is actually a symptom that occurs when the outer, protective layer of the hair shaft becomes fragile; then weakened segments along the hair shaft become frayed, brittle, and eventually break off. It may seem as if your hair is not growing; actually, healthy hair is growing at the root, but length cannot be maintained due to the breakage at the ends.

In a recent study, 60% of black women interviewed complained of excessive hair breakage and shedding. Published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

WHAT CAUSES IT?

In textured hair, the flat and irregularly curved shape of the hair shaft is more prone to injury and fragility.

External factors include chemical straightening and coloring, high heat styling, harsh and/or excessive manipulation, hard and/or chlorinated (pool) water exposure, and using the wrong styling tools and hair care products.

Hair breakage can also be caused by poor diet and hydration, medical conditions and prescription drugs.

WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT?

Decreasing the frequency of chemical treatments and high-heat styling will help maintain the integrity of your shafts.

A healthy diet with lots of water will assure that hair remains strong with adequate elasticity (suppleness, softness, give) to withstand your styles without breakage.

Hair and scalp care should include deep conditioning, scalp exfoliation, heat-protecting agents, regular trims, and styling products appropriate for your hair type and anticipated style.

Are you experiencing hair breakage?

Book an evaluation today.

Can Hair Loss Be Reversed?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:41:47 GMT

September is Alopecia Awareness Month, and every week we are answering some of the most common questions we get about hair loss, shedding light on its symptoms, causes, treatments, and more.

Question: Can Hair Loss Be Reversed?

Early research has established that a variety of hair loss symptoms seem to be associated with COVID-19, the most common include:

Answer: In many cases, the answer is yes!

Hair loss affects people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities, with multiple types and causes. But one key factor often determines whether hair loss can be reversed:

Early Intervention Is the Key

Just like many other health conditions, the earlier you address hair loss, the better your chances of reversing it. Hair follicles can become damaged over time due to various factors, leading to dormancy, shrinkage, inflammation, or scarring. If untreated, this damage can become permanent.

Take a moment to look at the hair follicle diagram again ( check out last week’s post for more details ) We talked about how disruptions within the body can weaken or damage follicles. Unlike skin cells, which regenerate, hair follicles don’t get replaced. We’re born with around 100,000 follicles on the scalp, which cycle through growth, shedding, and resting phases throughout our lives — but no new follicles are ever made !

That’s why early intervention is critical. When we address the root cause of hair loss early on, we can minimize permanent damage to the follicles, giving you the best chance to reverse hair loss.

If you’re noticing bald spots or thinning, DON’T WAIT—book a consultation with us today to explore your options!