Cover For both men and women, the leading cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (AGA) (Photo: iStock)
For both men and women, the leading cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (AGA) (Photo: iStock)
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Dr Chang Chee Seong of Kaiteki Clinic shares his expert insights on hair loss, from the most common causes to cutting-edge solutions and what to expect on the journey of hair recovery
Hair is deeply tied to our sense of identity, so for many, the first signs of thinning or hair loss can feel like losing a part of themselves. It can happen gradually or suddenly, from noticing a few extra strands on your pillow to discovering a bald spot. Depending on the cause, hair loss may be temporary or permanent. A global study found that around 85 per cent of men and 33 per cent of women experience hair loss in their lifetime.
Dr Chang Chee Seong, co-founder of Kaiteki Group of Clinics, specialises in hair restoration and understands the devastating impact hair loss can have on self-esteem. For both men and women, the leading cause is androgenetic alopecia (AGA), or genetic hair loss. “This accounts for about half of all hair loss cases,” says Chang, adding that while you can’t change your genes, early treatment can slow or minimise its progression.
Read more: What is Alopecia hair loss?
Women often face the added challenge of hormonal changes, especially after pregnancy, which can trigger noticeable shedding. While it may seem permanent, Chang reassures that it usually subsides once hormone levels begin to stabilise.
Above Co-founder and managing director of Kaiteki Group of Clinics, Dr Chang Chee Seong (Photo: Kaiteki Clinic)
Co-founder and managing director of Kaiteki Group of Clinics, Dr Chang Chee Seong (Photo: Kaiteki Clinic)
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Everyday decisions, like what you eat and how you deal with stress, can also have a significant impact. Stress is one of the most underestimated contributors to hair loss, causing a temporary condition called telogen effluvium. Hair sheds more rapidly than usual and grows back at a slower rate. “Fortunately, this type of hair loss often resolves on its own, within three to six months, once stress levels decrease,” Chang notes.
See also: Untangling the bald truths about hair loss
Diet is equally important. “Nutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins A, B (including folic acid), D, and E are essential for strong, healthy hair,” says Chang. Deficiencies can lead to thinning, hair loss and slower regrowth. While vitamin supplements can improve hair quality, Chang warns that active hair loss usually requires additional treatments. He advises against high-sugar diets, which can trigger inflammation and negatively affect hair health.
To promote healthier hair, Chang recommends getting adequate rest. “Sleep and relaxation help manage stress and allow the body to repair itself, which includes improving hair health.” He also advises against smoking, which reduces circulation and nutrient absorption, harming hair quality. “Men who frequently wear hats should be aware that prolonged use can affect scalp health over time,” Chang says. Women should also avoid tight hairstyles, as repeated tension can cause breakage and hair loss.
Above To promote healthier hair, Chang recommends getting adequate rest (Photo: Pixabay)
To promote healthier hair, Chang recommends getting adequate rest (Photo: Pixabay)
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To diagnose hair loss, it’s essential to consider when it started, how long it’s been ongoing, its pattern and family history. “Sudden hair loss is usually caused by something other than AGA. Gradual hair loss with a family history often points to AGA,” Chang explains. He also stresses checking for other underlying medical issues, particularly if the hair loss is sudden.
Temporary hair loss, while distressing, often needs nothing more than a bit of time to resolve. “In these cases, we focus on addressing the underlying cause, whether it’s a health condition or a nutrient deficiency, and may suggest supplements or topical treatments to help the process along,” Chang explains. On the flip side, permanent hair loss requires more aggressive action, like hair transplants or medication.
Minoxidil and finasteride are commonly used to treat AGA. These can be applied topically or taken orally, depending on the patient’s preference and the severity of the hair loss. Non-surgical treatments like intradermal minoxidil or dutasteride injections are also popular. “Other options include hair fillers, exosomes, scalp RF microneedling and light therapy,” Chang adds.
Above Hair is deeply tied to our sense of identity (Photo: Dupe)
Hair is deeply tied to our sense of identity (Photo: Dupe)
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For those seeking a more permanent hair loss solution to boost their confidence, hair transplant surgery is a viable option. The procedure involves moving hair from one area to fill in bald or thinning spots. Recovery is usually quick, with most patients resuming their routine within a week. “However, even after surgery, ongoing maintenance treatments are crucial for long-term success,” Chang advises.
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The field of hair restoration is evolving, with stem cell therapy emerging as a promising development. Stem cells can transform into different types of cells, including hair follicle cells. “Researchers are exploring how to use stem cells to help regrow hair by repairing or reactivating hair follicles that have stopped growing hair. This could be a natural, long-lasting solution to hair loss, potentially reversing thinning or bald areas,” Chang explains. In the future, such treatments may potentially help patients regrow their natural hair from their stem cells, opening the door to a more effective and personalised treatment plan.
Other promising therapies include low-level laser therapy (LLLT), which uses light to stimulate follicle activity, and exosome therapy, which uses tiny particles to stimulate hair growth. These advancements offer hope for less invasive, more natural, and longer-lasting solutions to hair loss.
As Chang says, the key to successful treatment is consistency. Whether you’re taking supplements, using topical treatments, or recovering from a hair transplant, the commitment to maintaining good hair health is crucial. And as science continues to unlock new ways to help us hold on to—or even regrow—our hair, the future looks promising for anyone looking to restore their hair’s natural vitality.
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