Hair Loss Awareness Month with Eva Proudman

August marks “Hair Loss Awareness Month” and this annual campaign provides a timely opportunity to raise the importance of discussing hair loss and the impact it can have on patients’ lives, regardless of age and gender.

Here, at Absolute Collagen our resident trichologist (hair and scalp specialist), Eva Proudman, helps to open up the conversation around hair loss and tackles the taboo with her pragmatic advice, tips and sensitive approach to a condition which affects around 8 million women in the UK and around 85% of men at some point in their lives.

“Hair loss can be such a debilitating condition, something which I see on a regular basis. It can also cover a wide spectrum of conditions, some of which can be addressed with simple solutions, and others requiring more complex treatment and investigation."

Eva highlights the importance of initially recognising the cause of the hair loss, looking at and discussing the options of why it is occurring. “It is crucial to understand and have a realistic expectation of the outcome, whether that is treating the condition, managing it, or looking to cover the affected area.”

“Hair loss can have many different underlying causes; it can be genetic, a sensitivity to androgens, (i.e. male hormones, testosterone), lower than required dietary intake of protein, illness, stress or even past trauma. Health conditions such as thyroidism, diabetes, circulatory disorders are amongst the most common factors that can impact the health of the hair and scalp – with much focus recently on the effect of menopause (and perimenopause) on potential hair loss and thinning.”

Hair is such a personal thing - it’s part of who you are, your identity and it gives you a lot of confidence which many people get attached to. All of this can be significantly affected if you are losing your hair. Eva explains how each person’s journey differs, “It’s really important to understand that hair loss can leave people feeling desperately alone. So, a supportive network is essential to provide reassurance and allow them to navigate during a difficult time where the affected person’s self esteem can be very low. A good starting point is to seek the advice of a reputable Trichologist. Trichologists are well trained in understanding and empathising with the psychological impact of hair loss.”

Eva adds; “Guiding patients through their journey of hair loss and educating them on the options available is a key part of a trichologists role. For conditions such as male and female pattern hair loss, photographs and scalp microscope images are taken at the start of treatment and reviewed following 4-5 months of treatment to see the effect on the hair. This is usually through a topical scalp application, low level laser light therapy and possibly oral medication as well."

“In cases of excessive hair shedding, dietary reviews and appropriate supplements can make a real difference and will often help to recover the hair back to normal. Scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can really benefit from trichological treatments and specialist shampoos to give relief and respite from these inflammatory recurring scalp conditions.”

Absolute Collagen can really help with hair shedding and itchy and flaky scalp conditions. The collagen supplement provides a good source of protein and amino acids that boost hair growth, condition the hair and support a healthy scalp. The Absolute Collagen shampoo and conditioner provide superb hair care to keep the scalp well managed with smooth, healthy shiny hair. Absolute Collagen really does provide a complete care programme both nutritionally from the supplement and from a great shampoo and conditioner.

“Part of my role as a Trichologist is to ensure that my patients recognise there is always help available and to remain hopeful. The Absoluter community are all so supportive of each other, openly sharing their hair loss stories and journey’s which is a real privilege for me as a Trichologist to be able to offer tips and advice on. It’s vital to remove the stigma around hair loss and I’m proud that the collective work of the Institute of Trichologists is playing a key part in this movement."

So, why not use “Hair Loss Awareness Month” as an opportunity to share your experiences, discuss your hair loss journey and help to normalise the topic.

Help and support can also be found at charities such as Alopecia UK – why not visit their website or follow them on social media this month: www.alopecia.org.uk
Instagram - @AlopeciaUK