With 42 per cent of British women either having experienced or are currently experiencing hair loss or hair thinning*, these are no small topics. Whether it's due to seasonal shedding, age-related thinning, a health condition that is causing bald spots, or a hormonal issue, getting to the root cause of hair loss is also no easy feat.
Here, to provide some answers to a vast subject, we delve into when shedding should be taken seriously, and the in-clinic and home remedies to help boost hair and improve scalp health…
Hair thinning vs hair loss
“Thinning is a gradual process over time and it can be caused by factors including menopause, hormonal imbalance, vitamin D deficiency, genetics and ageing,” explains Dr Saniyya Mahmood, aesthetic doctor and medical director of Aesthetica Medical Clinic. “Hair loss is more sudden, often caused by external factors like thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, postpartum hormone changes and stress.”
When shedding is cause for concern
“Generally speaking, shedding is when your hair falls out each day more than usual but your hair is still growing. This is very normal and common. Hair loss involves visible diffuse thinning spreading across the scalp,” adds Dr Mahmood. “If you’re concerned about either hair thinning or hair loss, you should always consult your doctor who will be able to determine the causes and suggest the best treatment.”
Professional treatments
Platelet rich plasma
PRP involves taking your own blood and putting it in a centrifuge to separate the plasma, which contains growth factors. The plasma is then injected into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles to promote new growth and increase hair thickness. A course of three treatments is recommended four weeks apart for the best results, however, this can be tailored and personalised depending on the type of hair loss, cause and severity.
Book it: From £350 per session at Aesthetica Medical Clinic, Leeds
E-50 Exosomes
Exosomes are nano-particles that are naturally released from cells and have potent repair and regenerative functions that offer a whole host of benefits for hair health. Introducing new exosomes, derived from salmon cells, to the scalp allows inactive hair cells and older exosomes to repair, strengthen and rejuvenate. The end result, after a course of three or more treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart, is reduced scalp inflammation, boosted hair growth and strengthened hair structure.
Book it: From £600 per session at Beyond Medispa in London and Edinburgh
Ultra bond extensions
Hair extensions have a largely unfair reputation for causing scalp issues, but when done professionally and maintained well, they can be a brilliant and immediate solution for combating fine hair. This specific style of extensions is ideal for the thinnest of hair as the tiny bonds, which get attached to the hair at the root, are almost invisible. They’re also precisely applied strand by strand using a bespoke micro extension fusion machine.
Book it: From £450 at The Extensionist salon in London. The hair can be reused for up to a year and maintenance appointments, from £290, are needed every 3-4 months.
Home hair growth helpers
Dermarolling
The process of dermarolling – using a roller covered in small, fixed needles – was first developed as a treatment for acne scars and wrinkles, but now it’s increasingly popular for use on the scalp. "These rollers can be used on your skin, scalp and beard as an alternative to in-clinic scalp microneedling, as it can help to stimulate sebum and collagen production, circulation and cellular turnover to benefit your skin and hair,” says Kimberley Medd, clinic lead at Face the Future.
Shop it: Revolution Haircare Scalp Dermaroller, £10 here
Rosemary oil
With over two billion views on video sharing platforms and Google searches up by 395%, the search term ‘rosemary oil’ is booming. “It has anti-inflammatory properties that could help with problems associated with hair loss, such as a dry or inflamed scalp,” explains Oliver Amodio, hair expert at Blue Tit salon. “It also increases blood flow to the area, which is one contributing factor to healthy hair growth. It's not a miracle product that will solve all problems, but it’s a great addition to a hair routine.”
Shop it: Umberto Giannini Rosemary Scalp & Hair Oil, £9.95 here
Rice water
Another big hit on social media, rice water has been touted by users as being able to soften strands, boost shine and encourage hair growth. “Users have reported an improvement in the condition of the hair fibres, and if you look closely at what is found in rice water, a number of its constituents may help to improve the manageability of your strands, including hydrolyzed proteins and amino acids,” says Dr Sharon Wong, consultant dermatologist. “However, there isn’t much data to support its influence on the hair cycle to improve growth.”
Shop it: Garnier Ultimate Blends Rice Water Infusion Shampoo and Conditioner, £5.50 each here
*Research commissioned by Philip Kingsley
