Understand how your comb and its usage can impact your hair!

The most basic hair care tool (after your fingers!)? A comb!
Something so basic that we hardly pay any attention to it; taking it absolutely for granted.

But did you know that the type of comb or brush you use, and the way you use it impacts your hair’s health significantly?

The number of men and women facing excessive hair fall in our country is staggering. This may be a result of autoimmune disorders, genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance, poor diets among a host of reasons. Would you have ever guessed that using the wrong comb, the wrong way, is one of the most common reasons that aggravates hair fall??

Today, we will take you through this very topic to help you understand the benefits of using the right comb and also the negative impact that a wrong comb can create. While at it, we will also address a frequent query on the difference between a comb and a hairbrush! Let’s get started…

Why do you need to comb your hair?

Combing impacts your hair and scalp equally. And it is important to understand how it does. ‘Cos when you understand its significance you will ensure that you pay attention to this otherwise mundane task!

Here are the three main things that happen when you comb your hair.

Blood circulation on the scalp is accentuated. Combing acts upon the capillaries of the scalp, increasing the blood circulation. This helps in transporting oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles effectively. This nourishes the hair roots, promotes growth and helps reduce hair loss.
Combing ensures there is proper distribution of natural oils present on your scalp. Your hair gets naturally nourished by these oils as you comb through, aiding hair growth.Our scalp has sebaceous glands that produce sebum (natural oil), which is a protective oil and natural conditioner. Combing helps stimulate these glands and helps by distributing the sebum from the root of the hair, all the way along the shaft, making hair stronger and more resilient.
While the sebum does the above, it also works on the scalp, creating the right pH balance. This is crucial for a healthy scalp. Scalp care is super important ‘cos a healthy scalp is the base for healthy hair!

When you assist the sebum’s role by combing, your hair is not as dry, but smoother and shinier. If you do not comb right, you are leaving excess sebum to gather greasily on your scalp. This can lead to a whole other set of scalp problems!

Your scalp is exfoliated and stimulated. Combing cleans your hair and scalp. It removes old hair, dead skin cells, hair product residues, grime, and other deposits at the root of your hair and on your scalp.If this regular, basic exfoliation is not done, it can lead to clogging of the scalp’s pores and encourage bacterial infections. Combing further helps open up the pores, thereby allowing your hair & scalp to breathe. This is the most natural way of getting rid of dead cells and dirt, as is also the best way to rejuvenate dull and dandruff-ridden hair!
Is there a ‘right comb’?

Always use a wide-toothed wooden comb (preferably made of rosewood).

A wooden comb is anti-static (unlike plastic combs) and getting rid of static is important, ‘cos this is the main reason why your hair gets frizzy, making it brittle and prone to breakage.

Wide rounded tips of a wooden comb help in giving the right massaging effect to your scalp, causing minimum friction. They are gentle on your hair, do not scratch the scalp and help in preventing the tangling of hair to a great extent.

Wide toothed combs are a great tool to comb thick, curly hair which is otherwise very difficult to deal with. Wooden combs don’t pull on your hair as much and hence lesser hair breakage. It also helps prevent split ends. And it’s worth mentioning – these are way more eco-friendly than any other kind of comb or brush!!

Brushes vs. Combs?

There is also always a discussion on combs vs. brushes. Let us clarify that both serve their particular purposes. Combs act as a detangler, scalp stimulator and as a tool for distributing natural oils effectively, as we have discussed above. They are also preferable when your hair is damp after a wash while brushes are used when hair is dry.

Brushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They have their purposes too, mainly to help deliver a particular style when your hair is dry. Having said that, paddle brushes are however known to help cover the scalp well and distribute natural oils for some hair types.

Many use the comb as a detangler at the beginning of their hair fixing process, followed by brushing. Different types of brushes are used, typically along with styling equipment like blow dryers and clips, to style the hair.

Comb too can be used for styling, however, there is a difference. Typically comb is first used to detangle and make the hair knot-free. It is then used to divide or part the hair into required sections and to tease it. The hairbrush is then used to curl, add volume, and create shapes.

It is also important to understand that while a comb is suitable for any type of hair (especially the wide-toothed ones), brushes have to be chosen and used carefully as per hair type.

The wide & flat paddle brush (which we spoke of earlier) with a rubber cushion base, helps deliver results as a comb while adjusting to your head’s contour. It is suitable for most hair types. However, others like the round-barrel brush are used only to style and set hair in curls. If you have short or very fine hair, then you need a very soft-bristled brush. While many suggest nylon bristle brushes for detangling, it ends up pulling your hair too much, whatever your hair type.

Not all brushes are usable across the board. You need to consider your hair and scalp condition, your hair type, thickness, texture, length, sensitivity, and your preferred hairstyle when you choose your brush! Combs are fairly less tricky to pick!

Is there a ‘right way’ to comb?

There is the methodology and the frequency to be discussed here. Apart from of course the right tool, which we have discussed above.

Firstly, the frequency – you should comb your hair at the right intervals, which means it should be not too often or too little! How much is too much? Well, there is no one number applicable to all!

How frequently you need to comb your hair every day, and how many times to stroke it each time, is something that is very person-specific. There is no sacrosanct number! And no, brushing ‘100 times a day’ rule is just a myth! It does not necessarily work that way!

If you comb your hair too little, then they will start tangling big time, leading to hair fall and breakages. On the other hand, if you comb your hair too often then, it will make your hair dry and the scalp oilier. Ideally one should comb anything between 3 to 8 times based on the need for your hair.

Now coming to the methodology of it, here are some simple pointers to keep in mind!

Make sure that the bristles/teeth of your brush/comb are not pointed. Metal combs and sharp bristled brushes displace the cuticle plates, making hair dull.

Use only a wooden comb – never rubber or iron or plastic. Make sure the ends of the comb are not pointed. Do not pull or yank hair. Be gentle!

A rough brush or comb (or even a good brush or comb used too much) causes friction and leads to the physical wear of the hair. Brushing or combing hair too frequently or in the wrong way (such as using a fine-toothed comb on very thick, curly hair or teasing hair) can lead to breakage.

Never comb or brush wet hair, as it is more susceptible to stretching and breaking when wet. Finger- comb it in gentle massage-like movements. Wait until it is damp before combing or styling.

Create a midline, comb to the sides and then over it. You are then paying attention to the place where a majority of the blood vessels that supply to your scalp, reside – at the back of your head. The occipital region, at the back, is packed with blood vessels (it’s one of the reasons why one rarely goes bald in this area!) and stimulating this section when you comb can do wonders.

If you’re someone with straight or wavy hair, use a wide-toothed comb your damp (not dripping wet!) hair while there is still conditioner in it. Start from the bottom and work gently up all the way to the roots. Wait until it’s all dry before getting a brush out to style it.

If you are curly-haired or have textured hair, the wooden wide-toothed comb we discussed is especially for you. Detangle gently with this comb while your hair is damp. This will help keep frizz down and breakage less.

If you have long, thick hair, Separate hair into small sections. With a wide-tooth comb, carefully work from the ends in a downward direction only. Part your hair, through a midline and comb the from the center outward. Ensure you cover the back of your head well (remember the occipital region?)

When combing and detangling your hair, you should begin from the tips and work your way up the hair shaft. Not the other way down – a very common hair care mistake that should be corrected! This is a gentler technique, especially if your hair is long and generally knotty. Start combing with short strokes at the bottom, detangling in sections, until the comb passes easily down the whole length of your hair.

Avoid sharing brushes, combs as towels, to prevent catching infections. Wash your brushes and combs regularly, and especially if someone else has used them. It’s important to maintain hygiene!
Also, never leave hair strands stuck on the comb or brush, after your use. Remove it immediately. Wash your combs at least once a month. This will ensure removal of oils, hair products, dust and other residues that you don’t want to get back on your hair & head!

Use lukewarm water, maybe a little shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Handy hack – old toothbrushes are helpful for scrubbing between those bristles!

It may be a worthwhile practice to replace your brush or comb once in say six months.

Treat your hair like a piece of fine old lace. Treat it carefully avoiding any unnecessary brushing, combing or handling!

It is best to pay attention to how your hair reacts to a certain comb or the way you go about your combing/ styling! If you need help in deciphering what your hair is saying, you should go meet the hair-whisperer! Your trichologist!

Benefits of using the right comb, the right way

Controls Damage

Combing right, every time is the best trick in the book to curtail hair damage, and retain the health & shine that you’re looking for in your hair. Hair & scalp treatments that relax your muscles and boost the blood flow in hair follicles limits damage from the root level. But this is periodical.

What can you do on a daily basis to keep the follicles stimulated? Give your scalp a good brush. It will help with blood circulation and help spread the natural oils as well through the hair. This, in effect, helps you control hair damage.

Aids hair growth

Long healthy hair doesn’t happen overnight. Patience backed up with proper hair care routine is the key to reach the perfect length. Comb and brush your hair regularly and you will ensure reduced hair breakage. And increased blood circulation on the scalp. This can thus aid your hair growing process.

Given the many advancements in trichology, you also have special Laser Combs which help in improving the blood circulation of the scalp and helps in rejuvenation of the hair follicles. This is a part of some key tricho treatments!

Let us clarify here that combing hair doesn’t make your hair grow any faster though! Hair grows as per the growth cycle. Combing and maintaining your hair merely aids the process!

Thicker & healthier hair

Your hair can actually start to look healthier and thicker by following this activity. When you use the right brush, you can give your hair a nice voluminous look, while you are ensuring its good health.

Easier to manage

When the comb and brush you use are the right ones for your hair type, your hair automatically becomes easier to manage. You will notice the hair strands on the comb become lesser and lesser, to becoming the negligible quantity (which is just those hairs that are on their falling phase!). Lesser tangles, lesser flyaways, less texture damage, lesser breakage, and lesser hair fall – Easy hair management!

Maintains style and shape

Does it feel like your hair starts to lose the shape of the haircut, the day after your hair cut? If you have a high-maintenance hairstyle, be it high layers, a short bob or mid waves, your overall look goes for a toss, if not kept up with properly. Use the right kind of brush and comb to keep your salon-look intact. Brushes come in a great variety of shapes and sizes, and can be absolutely bewildering we know! You can take a note from your stylist on which brush would suit your hairstyle the best, and how to achieve the look after every wash at home.

Remember, your hair & scalp is different from your neighbours! Discuss with your trichologist to arrive at a hair care routine that would suit you best, including the type of comb and brush you need!
Let us remind you, hair is science, not magic! It needs scientific care and due diligence for it to be healthy and full of life! Seek professional advice and stay ahead of problems!

Trust that with today’s blog we have touched upon and detailed a very basic, essential everyday-hair-topic!

Do get to know more about your hair! Read our blogs on hair care, hair trivia, hair loss, and solutions! Fresh blogs are added, week on week!

You can also follow us on social media to keep up with the updates and for all things HAIR!

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Ask the Hair Expert: Why do I need to meet a Trichologist?

Hair grows. Hair falls. Hair breaks. Hair greys. And goes through a great deal more!

Much depends on how you take care of it, from within and the outside. And much of it may be beyond your control. And every single one of us frets and fumes over our hair, every day, at some point or the other.

In earlier times, one had grandmothers passing on age-old wisdom on hair care, some myths – some relevant tips, some outdated thanks to the changes in society. The concept of hair care has afterall evolved much over time.

Typically, when you want to try anything new with your hair, or when you are facing a hair and scalp problem, you get busy googling for quick solutions, special diets, DIY tips or you check out the grocery store for a new oil, shampoo or some magical serum to bail you out!

But as with all problems, you need to get to the root of it, truly diagnose it, and then tackle it appropriately. Any other approach may douse the fire just temporarily. And let us remind you, hair is science, not fiction/fantasy/magic! Hair is an integral part of your anatomy. And any concern with it needs to be addressed scientifically, with the help of a professional. Isn’t that what you do when you get hurt anywhere on your body otherwise?!

Now, we have been trying to raise awareness about the importance of visiting a trichologist regularly, and how it can create a huge impact – in various conversations inside and beyond our clinics. Most people come to us when it’s fairly a later stage of a problem, thereby limiting their own options. And we get asked questions about why a person needs to visit a trichologist anyway!

So, today, on our Ask the Hair Experts series we are going to answer some of your questions on the need for a visit to a trichologist, and explain to you the benefits you can derive from it.

You asked: ‘Why should I visit a Trichologist? How can a Trichologist help? Can a Trichologist solve all my hair and scalp problems?’

Here’s the answer from the Hair Experts.

Yes. You SHOULD visit a trichologist periodically irrespective of your hair and scalp condition!

The trichologist can solve your existing hair concerns, if any, and keep any such worries away forever.

Get to the root (quite literally!) of all your hair and scalp with the help of a Trichologist!

Let’s first understand who a Trichologist is and then move on to speak on how a periodic visit to the clinic can help change your hair game.

Who is a Trichologist?

Before we define a Trichologist, let’s understand what Trichology is.

Trichology can be defined as the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair. Clinical trichology is defined as the diagnosis and treatment of diseases or disorders of the human hair and scalp.

Simply put, this vast subject of Trichology, covers everything on hair, right from hair loss and hair fall to finding the reasons for your hair thinning or treating your scalp condition. It encompasses common conditions like hair fall and dandruff, as well as studies and deciphers complex ones like Trichotillomania or Alopecia. You will be mind-boggled with the sheer number of problems that you could face with your hair and scalp!

Your Trichologist, as the name indicates, is a master of this very science of Trichology – the true hair expert – a hair doctor. He /she is THE person to go to for anything to do with your hair and scalp. Yes, it’s not just ‘hair care’…scalp care is supremely important as well.

Trichology, as a diagnostic science, was practically unknown in India, before Trichologists Sonal and Apoorva Shah, founders of RichFeel, pioneered it in the country. Over time limited awareness has been built, but the remarkable solutions that this field offers haven’t been quite tapped to its full advantage by people. There is still limited understanding of the topic and unfortunately, more misconceptions than clarity.

Hair is not just about the cosmetic appeal. Our hair is our body’s barometer. It reacts to every internal imbalance, small or big. And it signals you steadily on your bodily changes. A change in diet, days of not drinking enough water, a bout of illness, a pregnancy, a health condition – each one of it affects the hair. It’s a signal that works even when others don’t! For instance, Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis can tell you a lot more about what’s going on insideyour body than a blood test!

There are times when you know what your hair is trying to tell you and there are times when you don’t. You cannot decipher most hair concerns on your own and you certainly can’t treat it without quite knowing what’s causing it, can you? The number of hair concerns that have overlapping symptoms alone can put you in a spin!

So, here’s where a trichologist plays a key role – to help you understand your own hair and scalp better, to solve your concerns the rigth way, to keep it healthy, day in and day out.

How can a Trichologist help?

We will take the example of hair loss to answer this question in a simple manner.

Hair loss. It could be due to some nutritional deficiencies, genetics, hormonal imbalance, certain autoimmune problems or physiological or psychological stress. Or even a combination of two or more in some cases. Now, unless you know what’s causing the hair loss, you cannot treat it.

When you visit a trichologist, your hair and scalp will be physically checked, for various parameters, and you will ask questions on your lifestyle, your family (to understand the genetic angle), your diet and medical case history.

The trichologist diagnoses through hair analysis, using various methods and tech such as the FCT, capilloscopy, trichogram, densitometry, sebum analysis, hair pull test etc., also examines the hair shaft, growth window and many more such key metrics. Further, if need be, some important blood tests are also called for, to get greater insight of the hair and scalp problems. This, along with the answers to the questions above, helps a Trichologist clearly understand your condition, and guide you with the right solutions to your hair problems.

So, when should you visit a trichologist?

Just as you go for a dental check up every 4-6 months, you should make a visit to the trichologist every 6 months at the minimum. ‘Cos prevention is better than cure, right? Isn’t that something we have heard and learnt since we were kids? Do read our blog on how you can benefit from a periodic visit to your Trichologist and to understand what exactly when you do visit.

Here are some tell-tale situations that’s signalling you to go see a Trichologist right away!

There are some signs that warrant a trip to a qualified trichologist at the earliest.

Prolonged case of hair fall (over 3 months)

Excessive hair loss

Hair breakage

No hair growth

Extreme dry hair and recurring split ends

Extreme dandruff

Persistent itching and scaling of scalp

Patch of hair loss or bald patch

Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes

Hair thinning

Drastic reduction in hair volume

Excessive oiliness on the scalp

Excessive hair breakage, especially after a chemical treatment

Excessive body hair – men

Excessive facial and body hair – women

Loss of eyelashes or eyebrows

Postpartum hair loss that is persisting

Diagnosed with PCOD

Suffering from Thyroid disorders

Undergoing cancer treatment

Now, this list is not exhaustive. But it covers enough signs that are begging you to go see a hair doctor. Your hair needs someone who understands your hair and your medical history to truly get you out of the messy knot!

Your trichologist will follow a thorough diagnostic, consultation process and help you with the right course of treatment. Trichology is so advanced now that you have path breaking treatments that are absolutely safe and are result-oriented.

Solutions vary from surgical to non-surgical hair restoration techniques, to hair fertility treatments, tricho treatments to tackle hair thinning, hair fall and even hair colour damage (the need of the day with every second person colouring their hair with whatever hair colour gets to their hand!). Trichologists also suggest products that’s best suited to the individual, and advise on diet and lifestyle as well.

If you wish to attack a hair problem holistically once and for all, your trichologist is your superhero to the rescue!

Where can you find one? How to identify if it’s a qualified hair expert?

Your hair expert should be one who has studied Trichology and licensed as a Trichologist. And no, we doubt your salon hair stylist and your parlour didi fit the description as much as they claim to know the best for your hair!

Your best bet, in terms of professional expertise, quality of advice, choice of solutions, quality of treatment, service and best of technology in use, is to reach out to a reputed trichology centre or clinic.

Here are some questions to ask yourself about your trichologist’s visit, to help you know if he/she is the right one for you:

Did the clinic look hygienic and safe?

Is the clinic a trustworthy name? Time tested?

Were the staff friendly and approachable?

Did the trichologist examine your hair and scalp thoroughly?

Did he/she take hair samples, with your permission, for further study?

Did he/she explain the FCT and conduct it for you?

Did he/she discuss your medical history, diet, lifestyle and daily routines as much in detail as possible?

Did he/she spend time listening to what you had to say and answer your queries without apprehension or interruptions?

Did he/she explain to you in detail the treatment or product being prescribed?

Very importantly, were you personally comfortable discussing your concerns with the hair doctor? Did he/she give you confidence?

We are sure you may have some more personal questions to add to this. Our’s is just to get you started!

Let us assure you, that in matters of your hair and scalp, there is no one who knows your hair better than your trichologist. There is just no second thought on this.

So, do not hesitate or question the need for a visit. IF you care for your hair, well then, about time you start showing it the care it deserves!

Trust we have answered your questions and clarified your apprehensions on the need for a Trichologist! If you wish for any further details or clarifications, you know where to reach us! Our experts are just a call away.

Remember, each individual’s hair and scalp condition is different from the other. One solution doesn’t fit all! While one remedy may work for your friend, it may not quite do the needful for you! Hence, a gentle reminder – If you ever notice worrying changes in your hair, contact a trichologist immediately. Don’t postpone or hesitate. The sooner you attend to it, the more hair on your head!

For more on hair & scalp concerns, and for all things ‘Hair’, do follow our blogs on hair loss, hair care, treatments and solutions and interesting hair trivia!

Connect with us on social media on the links below. Do leave your questions & comments and we will address them all, just as we have done today!

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Premature Balding – Youngsters Losing Their Hair in the 20s!

Losing hair?, Dude, are you going bald?

Unfortunately, these are becoming fairly common questions, especially amongst the Millenials and unexpectedly so! For those in their 20s & early 30s, it’s clearly not the age to be worrying about hair loss and receding hairlines. It is, however, a trend that seems to be growing day by day, thanks to misplaced ideas of style & image, a plethora of fancy hair products in the market, rising pollution levels, bad diet fads and stressful, hectic lifestyles.

A receding hairline has now become about every third young man’s biggest problem, perhaps close on the heels of how hair thinning is the current nightmare ruining the sleep of many young women these days. What makes it all the more worrisome is that these situations are assumed to manifest without any sign or warning, shocking the individual facing it, though it’s actually not the case (there is some logic & science to it all!).

Hair loss is normal. All of us see a few strands come off every day, don’t we? But persistent and excessive? That’s not normal. Do read our blog on hair loss to understand what’s normal and what isn’t!

If you feel that you are finding more than usual hair on your comb or towel after a hair wash or the volume of the hair has uncertainly been reducing faster than usual, it’s time to think beyond…And a receding hairline when you are yet to hit the 35-mark is definitely not expected.

If you spot the early signs, you might just be in time to save yourself some serious bald-old man complex! ‘Cos thanks to advancements in trichology, unlike old times, you now do not have to endure it lifelong.

So, today, we are going to help you understand what in fact classifies as premature balding, what the early signs to watch out are, the possible causes and what you can do about it with the help of able trichologists!

Do you believe you are facing Premature Balding? Not sure?

Let’s start with understanding the most common reasons why young men are losing their hair and balding so early.

From genetics to hormones, unhealthy lifestyles to poor haircare routines…the reasons are a wide range. While on the one side it is important to spot those early signs of the problem, on the other, it is a must to seek a trichologist, to understand the root cause and severity of the case. ‘Cos only a clear diagnosis can help you solve it effectively.

Common causes of hair loss in men

Male pattern baldness

A mostly gene-influenced condition, MPT or Androgenetic Alopecia is by far the largest factor that causes early hair loss and balding in men. It has to do with the genetic structure and hormonal activity in the body.

We have observed that many men who come to us and get diagnosed with MPT are in their early 20s and perhaps even some late teens.

Basically, Male pattern baldness begins with the loss of hair from the front or crown area and follows a typical pattern. The main cause of male pattern baldness is the action of androgens on your hair follicles.

On achieving puberty, the male hormone androgen starts flowing freely in the body in the post-pubescent stage. Ironically, it is the same hormone that destroys the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to baldness. In such cases, hair does not attain optimum length & thickness. Further, the transition exogen phase gets elongated. Eventually, the follicle loses its capacity to generate new hair and dies.

Unfortunately, one can not alter with one’s genes or take anti-male hormones to destroy the male hormones; hence there is very little chance of hair regrowth in MPT. However, there are ways and means to manage the progression. Your trichologist is the best person to detect what kind of hair loss you are facing, whether it is reversible or irreversible, and help you understand in which stage of baldness you are at and advise the right course of action. Do read our blog on hair loss and male pattern baldness for more information on this.

Apart from this, there are some lifestyle factors that can contribute to hair loss and baldness in men.

Stress is a huge factor that triggers hair loss or makes it worse. Emotional stress has an immediate impact on the hair growth cycle. What it does is, it pushes the hair follicles into the resting phase, longer than the expected duration. This means that they won’t produce new hair strands as they should at the expected time. And over time, the hair becomes thinner and falls out more easily. Chronic stress basically leads to hair loss.

Unhealthy eating habits are a major reason for poor health, especially in youngsters. Junk or street food leads to low energy levels, lesser appetite control, nutritional deficiencies, health diseases, etc. And not just the quality of the food intake but also the timeliness of it. And need we remind you, bad diet = bad hair! Lack of adequate proteins, vitamins & minerals promotes hair loss. Consuming a protein-rich diet is not only important for hair growth but also plays a crucial role in regulating other bodily functions. A long protein deficiency in the body ends up making the hair dry & brittle thus, leading to breakage and loss.

Medical conditions strongly affect the hair growth cycle, triggering hair diffuse hair loss and can also aggravate the MPT in those who are genetically predisposed to it. Anemia, thyroid disorder, certain auto-immune diseases are some examples of such conditions. Certain medications such as blood thinners, high doses of vitamin A, steroids and radiation therapies are known to cause hair loss concerns in men. Acute illnesses also lead to hair loss and kickstart the thinning process in some who are not otherwise predisposed genetically to baldness.

This apart, erratic sleep schedules, smoking, low water intake, unchecked alcohol consumption too can trigger hair loss and contribute to male pattern baldness.

If its MPT, yes, you can perhaps look to your parents to point the finger at. But as regards the other causes, it’s you who needs to relook at your lifestyle.

We have, increasingly over the past decade, sen a rise in young men walking into our clinics with hair concerns. And almost all of them can attribute their problem to one or more of the above causes.

What used to be the condition in the 40s age-group in our father’s generation, is now the case of those in their 20s!

What are the early signs you should look out for?

Identifying if you are having excessive hair loss, then understanding what kind of hair loss it is, what the possible root cause is and what you need to do about it, is not as simple as changing your shampoo. Many ‘common’ signs, as you look up the net, may not quite help you identify your condition. You may mistake normal hair loss (which will grow back as it goes through the cycle) for MPT!

We will, here, try to give you three sure-shot MPT signs that are an indication that you need to visit your trichologist.

A change in your hair-line.

This is the most noticeable change that you can track for yourself. If you have your doubts, compare your photos over the past year or two to check for a pattern.

MPT always begins with the loss of hair from the front side. This causes the receding of the hairline. Then there is hair thinning which creates larger gaps between two hairs. This exposes the scalp. The hair at the temples and the crown portion become so thin and fine that they look baby-like. When this progresses even this Vellus hair disappears.

Noticeably less volume of hair

Now not all men have MPT. Right? So what about the others? Others may suffer from what is called diffuse hair loss. This doesn’t make the person go bald from their hairline. This kind of hair loss is noticed across the scalp and around the crown. MPT can also show diffuse thinning in the centero parietal region without affecting the hairline. You may notice excessive hair fall and find that your volume has gone down drastically over time…your head may feel lighter than usual and you may be feeling the bristles of your comb more than ever on your scalp!

Noticeable shower/ brush hair

Those of you who follow our blogs know that there is no set number on how much hair loss is normal for a person. How much is too much?

We always say, listen to your body, listen to your instinct! You always know when it’s more than normal! If the hair fall is persistent, for more than 3 months, it’s time to take action.

Is it regular hair loss or early signs of premature balding? Many men don’t even realize they are balding or experiencing severe hair loss until and unless it becomes evidently visible. And the psychological effects that premature baldness can have are many…

Intense emotional suffering – depression, anxiety

Lack of personal support

Social & work-related problems

Loss of confidence & self-trust

Unlikely awkwardness amidst peers or family

Insecurity & rejection phobia

The earlier you detect and take action, the better.

How can a Trichologist help?

Your trichologist is your go-to person for your hair and scalp concerns. This one person will understand your hair in connection with your lifestyle, your diet, your medical history and more, like no other. Every hair has a story to say and your trichologist is the person who can decipher yours!

Once a clear diagnosis is drawn, you will be advised on a solution that is most suitable to you. Whether it’s genetic or otherwise, there is a solution for all.

Here are some suitable treatments depending on the age, root cause & stage of baldness that one experiences:

Hair fertility treatments

MPT is generally considered irreversible since it leads to the death of hair follicles. However thanks to the advancements in trichology, you now have hair fertility treatment that can not only help fight hair loss but also effectively fight hair thinning, and rejuvenate the hair follicles. This treatment uses unique plant extracts with remarkable qualities that can inhibit 5α reductase, stimulate hair follicles and help push new hair growth process. There is hair loss control as well as hair regeneration with this non-invasive treatment.

Camouflaging / Permanent Scalp Cover

Camouflaging is a very feasible & convenient way of managing a receding hairline or visible section of the scalp Though it cannot be called an actual corrective treatment, many men consider it to cover their scalp as a quick fix. As there are different camouflaging approaches, it is highly suggested to seek advice from certified trichologists.

Non-Surgical Hair Systems

If you’re in the latent stage of hair loss, where there is a very large balding area to be covered, then customized non-surgical hair replacement could be the best option for you. This will let you achieve a head full of hair that looks natural, stylish and does not restrict your lifestyle.

Gone are the days of wigs. You now very reputed clinics offering hair systems infused with the best quality human hair set on extremely comfortable, skin-friendly special derma bases. They are super light and are completely undetectable. TThe base is light and permeable thus, allowing the scalp to breathe while giving the hair an effect of growing right out of the scalp like natural hair with its flawless infusing technique. And it’s customized to you by trained hair stylists.

Surgical Hair Transplant

Hair transplant or permanent hair restoration is a surgery that moves hair and hair follicles from a part of your body called the donor site to the bald or balding part called the recipient site. Sounds too serious? Well, don’t fret. It is extremely safe, comfortable & effective if you get it done at the right place! Do speak to your trichologist about it to clear your doubts and apprehensions if any. You could read our blog on it too!

Lifestyle Management

If it’s not MPT and more of lifestyle-related issues, well, the most natural way to cure your hair problem is to correct your lifestyle! A good trichologist will advise you on the right diet, the right lifestyle, some homecare ideas and perhaps also help you tide over a bit with internal supplements to treat hair your immediate hair fall. You may also be prescribed therapeutic tricho treatments to fight the hair fall.

Clinical examination, thorough hair and scalp analysis help the trichologist in narrowing down on the best option for you.

With age on your side, with the right person guiding you, you can stride ahead with more confidence! All you need to do is to pay a little more TLC to your hair, watch out for early signs, and not hesitate to contact a professional at earliest.

Do not think or feel that you are too late to take any step. Anytime is a good time to change your life & take care of yourself better!

Remember, we are just a call away! Regardless, whether you are experiencing hair thinning, loss, baldness or any other hair & scalp issue, or not, visiting a trichologist at timely intervals, can play a key role in ensuring that you keep your hair woes away and have great hair every day! It’s not about just the perfect selfie or Instagram grid. It’s about a lifetime of great hair…

What is ultimately important is that you are aware of whether you have a problem, what the problem is, the underlying cause to the concern, and you seek help from the right professionals to solve it the right way. Make an informed choice – get in touch with the true Hair expert, a Trichologist!

Do follow our blogs on hair loss, hair care, laser hair reduction, treatments and solutions and such other interesting hair trivia!

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