Hair, often seen as a symbol of beauty and vitality, can also reveal underlying health problems. Dr Fatima Boclet, general practitioner specializing in aesthetic medicine and hair transplants, explains: “hair is the tip of the iceberg. This is the first thing that will be degraded and will be a point of call to say that there is something wrong.”
Alopecia, for example, is hair loss that can be gradual or sudden. It can be caused by genetic, hormonal or environmental factors. “At the time of menopause, in women, there is a drop in estrogen,” explains Dr. Boclet, which can lead to thinning of the hair. But alopecia is not inevitable. “It’s not as inevitable as that,” she reassures.
Alopecia areata, for its part, is an autoimmune disease that manifests itself as patchy hair loss. “It’s a disruption of the immune system,” explains Dr. Boclet. Although often reversible, it sometimes requires specific treatments. White hair, often associated with aging, can also be influenced by stress or vitamin deficiencies. “The cells that create melanin begin to fatigue with age,” which explains the appearance of white hair, according to Dr. Boclet.
Faced with these pathologies, solutions exist
Drug treatments can slow the progression of alopeciawhile hair transplantation offers an option for those who wish to regain fuller hair. For androgenetic alopecia, drug treatments like minoxidil and finasteride can slow the progression of hair loss.
In cases of nutritional deficiencies, dietary supplements may be beneficial, but they must be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. “Vitamins are good for the seasonal fall, if there is a deficiency that has been proven,” specifies Dr. Boclet. However, she advises against self-medication, emphasizing the importance of diagnosing the cause of the fall before starting treatment. A balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, remains a fundamental basis for hair health.
For those who have already lost a significant amount of hair, hair transplantation represents an effective option. This technique consists of taking follicular units from the donor area, generally the crown, to implant them in bald areas. “The technique we use today allows it to be imperceptible”says Dr. Boclet. Although expensive, this solution offers natural and lasting results, restoring confidence to many patients.
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