To diagnose hair loss requires a careful evaluation of the patient's medical history and a physical examination of the scalp. At our practice, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess hair loss patterns and identify underlying causes.

Trichoscopy

Trichoscopy is a non-invasive technique that uses a dermatoscope to magnify and analyse the scalp. This helps us identify specific hair diseases and assess the condition of hair follicles.

Blood samples

We also perform blood tests to rule out medical conditions that may cause hair loss, such as hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment options

There are several effective treatment options available for hair loss, depending on its cause and severity.

Medical Treatments

• Minoxidil: A topical solution that promotes hair growth and prevents further hair loss.
• Finasteride: An oral medicine used to treat male pattern hair loss by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
• Corticosteroids: Used to treat inflammatory hair diseases.

Surgical Treatments

• Hair transplant: A procedure in which healthy hair follicles are transplanted from one area of the scalp to the affected area.
• FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): A modern technique where individual hair follicles are extracted and implanted.

Natural and Complementary Therapies

• Laser therapy: Use of low-intensity laser light to stimulate hair growth.
• Acupuncture and Massage: May improve blood circulation to the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
• Food supplements: Vitamins and minerals such as biotin, zinc and iron can support hair health.

Expectations when visiting a hair loss clinic

When you visit our hair loss clinic, you can expect a thorough evaluation and a customised treatment plan. Our experts will work closely with you to identify the most effective solution for your specific hair loss case.

First Consultation

During your first visit, we will conduct a detailed examination of your scalp and discuss your symptoms and expectations. Based on our evaluation, we will recommend appropriate tests and treatments.

Monitoring and Maintenance

After a treatment plan has been initiated, regular follow-up visits will ensure that treatment is effective and adjusted if necessary. Maintenance treatments may also be recommended to prevent future hair loss.

Advances and Innovations in Hair Loss Treatment

Research in hair loss treatment is constantly evolving, and new methods are regularly tested to improve the effectiveness and safety of treatments.

Stem cell research

Stem cell research shows promising potential for future hair restoration therapies by using stem cells to regenerate hair follicles.

Genetic Treatments

Genetic research aims to understand the specific genes involved in hair loss and develop targeted treatments that can block the negative effects.

Personalised Medication

Personalised medication, based on an individual's genetic profile, is becoming increasingly relevant in hair loss treatment and may soon offer tailor-made solutions.

Executive summary

Hair loss can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience, but with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, many individuals can regain both hair and self-esteem. Our practice offers a comprehensive and personalised approach to hair loss treatment, using the latest technology and science. Whether it's through medical treatment, surgical procedures or natural therapies, we are here to help you find the best solution for your needs.

We encourage you to book a consultation with our experts to take the first step towards healthier hair and a happier you.

Dermatology is the medical discipline that focuses on the skin, hair and nails, and involves the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases and conditions affecting these areas. Dermatology includes specialists who focus specifically on hair diseases and various forms of hair loss, including alopecia.

What is alopecia?

Alopecia is a medical condition characterised by hair loss, and there are several different forms of this disease. The most common types include:

• Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss.
• Androgenic Alopecia: Commonly known as male or female pattern hair loss. It is caused by genetic factors and hormonal changes.
• Alopecia Totalis and Universalis: More advanced forms of alopecia where the entire scalp or body hair may disappear.

The role of specialists

A dermatologist specialising in hair diseases has the expertise to diagnose and treat different types of hair loss. Their duties include:

• Diagnosis of hair diseases:
  • Clinical evaluation: Conduct a detailed assessment of the patient's hair and scalp to identify signs of disease.
  • Biopsies and blood tests: Using laboratory tests to confirm diagnoses and rule out other medical conditions.
• Treatment of Alopecia and Hair Loss:
  • Medical treatment: Prescribe medicines such as corticosteroids, minoxidil or finasteride to stimulate hair growth or reduce hair loss.
  • Therapeutic interventions: Carrying out treatments such as PRP therapy or laser treatment to improve scalp health and promote hair growth.
• Advice and Support:
  • Individualised treatment plan: Develop customised plans based on the patient's specific needs and condition.
  • Psychosocial support: Help patients cope with the psychological effects of hair loss and boost their self-esteem.

Other hair diseases and conditions

In addition to alopecia, dermatologists also treat a range of other hair-related diseases and conditions, such as

• Telogen Effluvium: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, hormonal changes or nutritional deficiencies.
• Trichotillomania: A mental disorder in which the individual has an irresistible urge to pull out their own hair, leading to patchy hair loss.
• Seborrheic dermatitis: An inflammatory disease that can cause scaly and itchy scalp, sometimes leading to hair loss.

Executive summary

Dermatologists specialising in hair diseases play a critical role in understanding and treating complex hair loss problems. By combining medical expertise with a personalised and holistic approach to care, they can help patients navigate the challenges of various hair disorders, restore hair health and promote increased confidence and well-being.

Scalp oxygenation plays a crucial role in maintaining good hair health. Below we explain how oxygenation works, its importance for hair growth, and the factors that can affect scalp oxygenation.

Oxygen supply to the scalp

The role of blood circulation

• Blood vessels in the scalp:
  The scalp has a network of capillaries, small blood vessels, which supply the hair follicles with oxygen and nutrients. These capillaries deliver oxygen from the blood to the cells of the hair follicle by diffusion. Oxygen is carried in the blood by haemoglobin, which is a component of red blood cells.
• Oxygen transport:
  Oxygen is transported via the bloodstream from the lungs to the scalp. As the blood circulates through the capillaries on the scalp, oxygen and nutrients are released into the hair follicle. This process is essential for cellular energy production and metabolism in the hair follicles.
• Energy production:
  Oxygen is necessary for cellular respiration (aerobic respiration) and the production of ATP, which provides energy for cellular functions, including keratin production.

Structure of the hair follicle

• Dermal papilla:
  At the base of each hair follicle is a structure called the dermal papilla, which is rich in blood vessels and plays a critical role in the hair growth cycle. It is in this part of the hair follicle that oxygen and nutrients are taken up from the blood and used to support active cell growth and division.

The importance of oxygen supply for hair growth

The hair growth cycle

• Anagena Fas:
  This growth phase, which can last for years, requires an abundant supply of oxygen and nutrients to maintain active cell division and hair growth. The better the oxygen supply, the stronger and healthier the hair will be.
• Catagenic and Telogen Phases:
  The anagen phase is followed by the catagen (transitional) and telogen (resting) phases, during which hair follicle activity decreases. Despite the decrease in activity, oxygen supply is still important to maintain hair follicle health.

Cell metabolism

• Oxygen deficiency and cell health:
  Lack of oxygen (hypoxia) can lead to reduced cell metabolism, which in turn can weaken the hair follicle and lead to hair loss or thinning hair. Optimal oxygen supply supports not only growth but also cell repair and maintenance.

Factors Affecting Scalp Oxygenation

Lifestyle and Environment

• Food:
  A nutritious diet rich in iron, B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids supports good blood circulation and oxygenation. Iron is particularly important because it helps haemoglobin transport oxygen efficiently.
• Physical Activity:
  Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which in turn increases the oxygen supply to the whole body, including the scalp. Aerobic exercises such as walking, running and cycling are particularly beneficial.
• Smoking:
  Smoking can reduce blood circulation and oxygen supply, which can negatively affect the health of hair follicles.

Health status

• Anaemia:
  Low iron levels in the blood can lead to anaemia, which reduces the oxygen supply to body tissues, including the scalp.
• Circulation problem:
  Conditions that affect blood circulation, such as high blood pressure or atherosclerosis, can also reduce oxygen supply.
• Skin diseases:
  Skin diseases such as psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis can affect blood flow and oxygen supply to hair follicles.

Treatments and massages

• Scalp massage:
  Regular scalp massage can increase blood flow and oxygen supply to the hair follicles, which can promote hair growth.
• Topical Treatments:
  Some topical treatments can improve blood circulation on the scalp. Minoxidil, a medicine used to treat hair loss, works by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow.
• Acid treatment:
  Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to improve hair growth and hair health is a method that has become increasingly popular. There are different types of oxygen treatments that are designed to increase the oxygen supply to the scalp and thereby promote hair growth.

At Akacia Medical we offer oxygen therapy with Oxyhelp.