You are probably suffering from Androgenetic Thinning (Male Pattern Baldness). This is a hereditary condition. The production of testosterone on the top of the scalp reacts to an enzyme called 5-alphareductase converting to di-hydrotestosterone (DHT). Presence of excessive DHT inhibits hair growth or shortens the growth cycle. It also increases the production of oil.

Stress too, can aggravate the situation. You should continue with twice daily shampoo and live a somewhat less stressful lifestyle. You may also wish to have your hair and scalp analysed by a hair professional - telephone us and speak to one of our trichologists.

I'm in my early twenties. I noticed a balding spot in the center of my head and my hair is falling out at an alarming rate and my sink clogs everyday when I wash my hair. Please tell me what I can do about this problem. It's seriously affecting my confidence.

The bald spot could be alopecia areata whereby a group of white blood cells attacks the skin or hair follicles. This problem can be caused by viral infections, vaccinations, trauma to the skin or stress.

When the hair is falling out at an alarming rate, this could be due to telogen effluvium (anagen stage abruptly change to telogen) or loose anagen syndrome (despite the growth cycle, the hair can easily shed through combing and shampooing). With this condition, the hair growth cycle is prematurely changed to dying stage. Hence, the normal hair cycle has been altered resulting in heavy hair falls. Typically for those who try to lose weight quickly by denying protein in their diet suffer from the problem. A serious trauma or stress which occurred about 3 months ago could also disrupt the hair cycle.

It is best to speak to one of our trichologists before any form of treatment can be recommended. Both problems mentioned are temporary and can be helped if treated quickly.

Hair loss after pregnancy

I have recently given birth and my baby is 3 month old. I am experiencing some hair lost problems. I am told this is temporary due to the hormone changes in my body but I kind of worry as I generally do not have thick hair. Can you advise me what can I do to reduce the hair fall lost during this period.

During pregnancy, because of hormonal changes, your hair is probably at its best.The growth (Anagen) stage is normally prolong. Henceforth after childbirth, the hormonal changes reverse back, thus the accumulated amount of hair falls; that should have fallen during pregnancy. The hair that are due to fall, will fall, but your concern should be on the regrowth. Clean, healthy scalp with balanced diet would help, however, telephone and speak directly to one of our trichologists at The Hair Centre for advice and they will assist you to strengthen and nourish hair roots, giving your hair the best texture.

When you visit the practice you will be seen by an experienced trichologist who will examine your hair and scalp closely and check through your medical history thoroughly. Once the diagnosis has been made, if treatment is recommended, we will be able to provide you with the most effective and up-to-date trichological medication for home use.