Hair Loss Treatment in Beachwood, OH

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a common condition that affects men and women of all ages. It often results in frustration, embarrassment, and even severe emotional distress. At Western Reserve Dermatology, our team of the best dermatologists in Beachwood, OH, understands the significant impact hair loss can have on your quality of life. We offer a comprehensive range of hair loss treatments designed to address various causes and help restore your confidence.

Understanding Hair Loss

Alopecia can occur due to several factors, including aging, genetic predisposition, medications, or underlying medical conditions. Hair loss can present itself in various forms, such as patterned baldness, patchy spots, or thinning hair. Addressing hair loss is not just about aesthetics; it can also be crucial for psychological well-being.

Causes of Hair Loss

The primary causes of hair loss include:

Genetic Factors

Hereditary conditions like male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness are the most common causes of alopecia.

Hormonal Changes

Conditions like pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid problems can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss.

Medications

Certain drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss as a side effect.

Medical Conditions

Disorders such as alopecia areata, scalp infections, and trichotillomania can contribute to hair loss.

Hair Loss Treatments at Our Skin Clinic

At Western Reserve Dermatology, we offer a variety of effective treatments tailored to your specific type of hair loss. From hair loss medications to advanced surgical techniques, our hair loss specialists are here to help.

Medications for Hair Loss

Topical Treatments

Medications like Rogaine (Minoxidil) stimulate hair follicles to grow new hair or enlarge existing hairs. For the best results, these hair loss medications must be used consistently.

Hormone-Based Medications

For men suffering from androgenetic alopecia, hormone-based treatments such as Propecia (Finasteride) may be prescribed. However, these oral medications are not FDA-approved for use in women due to the risk of birth defects.

Corticosteroids (h4):

For cases of autoimmune-related hair loss, corticosteroids can be administered topically, orally, or via injection to suppress the immune system and protect hair follicles from being attacked.

PRP Therapy for Hair Loss*

Many patients inquire about PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy. While preliminary data suggests it may help, PRP is not yet recognized as a standard treatment for hair loss. As it is not covered by insurance and can be costly, we advise waiting until more conclusive data is available before pursuing this option.

Psoralen with Ultraviolet Light Therapy (PUVA)**

What is Psoralen?

Psoralen is a medication that increases the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light. It can be administered in two primary forms: topically or orally. When psoralen is applied or ingested, it prepares the skin to react more intensely to UV light, which is a key component of the PUVA treatment.

How Does PUVA Therapy Work?

PUVA therapy involves the application of psoralen followed by exposure to ultraviolet light. This combination can help in managing hair loss associated with autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata and aggravated psoriasis. By enhancing the skin’s sensitivity to UV light, psoralen enables the ultraviolet exposure to penetrate more deeply and effectively influence the underlying causes of hair loss.

• Topical Application: Psoralen is applied directly to the affected areas of the scalp or skin. After application, the area is exposed to UV light, which helps in stimulating hair growth and improving skin condition.
• Oral Administration: Psoralen can also be taken orally in the form of tablets. After ingestion, the patient is exposed to UV light, which allows the psoralen to work systemically and reach deeper tissues.

Benefits of PUVA Therapy

• Effectiveness in Treating Hair Loss: PUVA therapy is particularly effective in managing hair loss caused by autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata. It can also help with psoriasis, which often exacerbates hair loss.
• Improved Hair Growth: For many patients, PUVA therapy results in noticeable improvement in hair regrowth, particularly in areas where hair loss has been persistent or severe.

Hair Transplantation: Advanced Solutions for Hair Loss**

Hair loss can be a challenging and distressing condition, but there are effective surgical treatments available to restore your hair and confidence. At Western Reserve Dermatology, we offer state-of-the-art hair transplantation procedures designed to address various types of hair loss, including alopecia, with minimal downtime and impressive results.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)**

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) is a highly effective surgical method for treating hair loss. This procedure involves relocating hair follicles from a donor area, typically the back or sides of the scalp, to the areas experiencing hair thinning or baldness. Each follicular unit, which contains one to four hairs, is meticulously transplanted to ensure natural-looking results.

Procedure Details:

• Duration and Anesthesia: The FUT procedure can last between 5 to 10 hours and is performed under local anesthesia. This ensures that patients remain comfortable throughout the process.
• Recovery and Results: Post-procedure, some soreness and numbness may be experienced, but these effects are generally temporary. Normal hair care can be resumed within a week. Visible results usually start appearing within 3 months, with optimal outcomes becoming evident as the newly transplanted hair grows in and matches the surrounding hair.

Applications of FUT:

• Temporal Peak Restoration: Ideal for addressing male-pattern baldness and enhancing temporal peaks.
• Eyebrow and Eyelash Replacement: Effective for restoring hair to the eyebrows and eyelashes, where hair loss can be particularly noticeable.

FUT represents a significant advancement over older "hair plug" techniques. Modern follicular units and micrografts offer numerous benefits, including faster healing, reduced discomfort, and more aesthetically pleasing results. This technique has been refined to deliver natural-looking outcomes with minimal impact on surrounding hair follicles.

Skin Lifts and Grafts**

Skin lifts and grafts offer an alternative surgical approach for hair restoration. This technique involves lifting a "flap" of hair-bearing skin from a donor area and rotating it to cover balding or thinning areas. The flap is carefully positioned to integrate seamlessly with the existing hair, providing a natural appearance.

This method is beneficial for specific cases where other hair restoration techniques may not be suitable. It provides an effective solution for patients seeking to improve hair density in targeted areas.

Scalp Reduction**

Scalp reduction is a surgical technique that involves tightening the scalp to reduce bald areas. This method pulls hair-bearing skin from the sides and back of the head toward the crown. Hair transplantation may be performed to cover any remaining bald spots.

**For informational purposes only.

Why Choose Western Reserve Dermatology?

​​At Western Reserve Dermatology, our skilled team of hair loss specialists provides personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Our best hair doctors are here to help you regain your confidence with the latest treatment options. Our expertise in advanced hair treatment techniques ensures that you receive the best care possible for your hair loss concerns. Whether you're looking for hair loss medication or considering surgical options, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

When to Consult a Dermatologist

At Western Reserve Dermatology, our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced treatments for hair loss. If you are experiencing unexplained hair loss or notice significant changes in your hair’s thickness, it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist. Early intervention can prevent further hair loss and improve treatment outcomes.