August is Hair Loss Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

August 22, 2024 by VitalSkin Dermatology

August has been designated as National Hair Loss Awareness Month, a time to focus on this common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This observance aims to educate and raise awareness about hair loss, its causes, and available treatments.

The quest to address hair loss dates back to ancient times. As early as 3000 B.C., people in the Middle East used wigs and hairpieces to conceal hair loss. The oldest known prescription for baldness appears in the “Ebers Papyrus,” an ancient Egyptian medical text from 1553 B.C. Even Hippocrates, the Father of Modern Medicine, attempted to treat his own baldness in 420 B.C.

Today, hair loss awareness has evolved significantly. Modern treatments range from hormone therapy to surgical grafting. Companies like Bosley, founded in August 1974, have played a crucial role in advancing hair restoration techniques. Since its inception, Bosley has performed enough procedures to fill Dodger Stadium five times over, highlighting the widespread nature of hair loss concerns.

While August is officially recognized as Hair Loss Awareness Month, it’s important to remember that hair loss affects people year-round. This dedicated month serves as an opportunity to have open discussions about hair loss, its impact, and the various solutions available to those experiencing it.

What You Need to Know About Hair Loss

What Does & Doesn’t Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a common concern, but many myths surround its causes. To help you understand this condition better, let’s debunk some misconceptions:

1. Wearing hats: Contrary to popular belief, hats don’t cause hair loss. Your hair follicles get oxygen from your bloodstream, not the air around you.
2. Shampooing: Washing your hair doesn’t lead to hair loss. It’s normal to shed some hair while shampooing.
3. Genetics: While genetics play a role, hair loss can be inherited from either parent, not just your mother’s side.
4. Age: Hair loss can start at any age, even in your twenties.
5. Sun exposure: While excessive sun can damage hair, it doesn’t directly cause hair loss.
6. Hair products: Using gels, sprays, or other styling products doesn’t cause male pattern baldness.
7. Stress: While severe trauma can cause temporary hair loss, everyday stress typically doesn’t lead to permanent hair loss.

Remember, hair loss can have various causes, including hormonal changes, medical conditions, and nutritional deficiencies. If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Why Hair Loss Awareness Month is Important

Hair Loss Awareness Month in August serves as a crucial platform to educate and empower individuals about this common condition. It aims to reduce the stigma associated with hair loss, encouraging open discussions and seeking professional help. This observance highlights that hair loss affects both men and women, with two-thirds of men experiencing some degree of hair loss by age 35 and 40% of hair loss sufferers being female.

The importance of this month lies in its ability to:

1. Spread awareness about causes and treatments
2. Redefine beauty standards
3. Encourage early intervention
4. Provide support and resources

By raising awareness, you can learn about various types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium, and explore treatment options like medications and hair transplants. This knowledge empowers you to take proactive measures for maintaining hair health and seeking appropriate solutions. Remember, whether you’re experiencing hair loss or know someone who is, Hair Loss Awareness Month offers a valuable opportunity to address this issue openly and find the support you need.

Treat Your Hair Loss with VitalSkin

At VitalSkin, we offer advanced treatments to address your hair loss concerns. Our Keravive treatment stimulates hair growth by delivering vital proteins and growth factors to support hair follicles. This treatment also includes a scalp massage, which research has shown can reduce hair loss and lead to thicker hair by improving circulation.

Another effective option is PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. This innovative treatment uses your own blood to promote natural hair growth. By injecting concentrated platelets into your scalp, we can increase blood supply to hair follicles and enhance hair shaft thickness. For optimal results, we recommend 3-6 treatments, often combined with topical solutions.

It’s important to note that while these treatments can be highly effective, they may not completely resolve hair loss caused by underlying medical conditions. To determine the best approach for your specific situation, consult with one of our board-certified dermatologists. They can provide a thorough evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan to address your hair loss concerns.