ASK A DERMATOLOGIST

How can I really slow down hair loss?

Female patterned hair thinning is related to our hormones and the sensitivity of the hair follicles to the hormones, which is primarily genetically determined. Therefore, hormonal prescription medications can be very effective in making the scalp hair thicker, as well as over-the-counter minoxidil. In terms of products that help with hair health, you can use the Truth Vitality line of shampoos, conditioners, and Advanced Complex. These products contain copper peptides and copper chloride, which can increase cellular reproduction and lengthen the hair life cycle. They also contain caffeine and beta-sitosterol, which can inhibit five alpha-reductase (which promotes hair thinning). And if all else fails, consider taking a biotin supplement and eating a well-rounded diet with plenty of protein, so you don’t have any vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

If my scalp is really flaky, should I stop shampooing so much?

Real talk: A dry flaky scalp can feel embarrassing, but it doesn’t have to be. Many people think that washing your hair more, causes more dryness and flaking, but actually it’s the opposite. The flaking comes from yeast that lives on the skin (we all have it, it’s not a hygiene problem) and washing the yeast away with the proper shampoo can really keep the flaking at bay. Lesson learned: Ask your derm for a prescription or recommended over-the-counter shampoo. We love natural shampoos that contain tea tree, which is both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and helps to soothe and calm the scalp.

Are beauty treatments addictive?

Some may think this is a crazy question, but many people believe beauty treatments are 100 per cent addictive and now that we’re thinking about it, we have to agree. While it’s easy to be bombarded by shows like Botched, or hear the news stories about celebrities who have gone too far in their search for eternal beauty, routine beauty treatments like face peels, Botox and facials are not necessarily addictive. If a person is overdoing their treatments however, it may stem out of a psychological issue with confidence or body-dysmorphia. Sound like you? Then ask your doc honestly whether or not you’re going overboard. It’s important for doctors to act ethically in advising against treatments for patients when it’s not necessary, or too soon after a previous treatment.

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