Quarantine hair loss: Dermatologist explains causes and treatments
Dermatologist recommends supplementation and highlights emotional issues during the pandemic as a risk factor.
During the period of social isolation, complaints about hair loss have increased. Dr. Daniel Fernandes Melo, dermatologist and coordinator of the hair department at the Brazilian Society of Dermatology - Rio de Janeiro Region (SBD-RJ), explains that the emotional state can eventually trigger hair loss. "The issue involves several factors. One of them is social isolation, which can increase the perception of hair loss. In addition, there is the emotional issue, which can also contribute as a possible trigger for some types of hair loss."
The specialist recommends seeking out a qualified professional to analyze cases individually. "Dermatologists offer the best way to provide face-to-face care in complete safety and there is also telemedicine, which is already a reality. The main thing is to look for a qualified professional to help with the problem," advises Dr. Melo.
There is no exact, proven equation for identifying when hair loss stops being normal and becomes a problem. "You are the main agent for checking for changes in the pattern of hair loss. If it starts to bother you, then it's the right time to talk to a specialist to find the cause of the problem and the most appropriate treatment," says the expert.
Hair loss (alopecia) can be classified into two large groups: cicatricial, in which there is irreversible damage to the follicle and, for the most part, it is not possible for hair to grow back; and non-cicatricial, which is more common in the population and, in some cases, can be reversed after the follicle has been altered and hair grows back in the affected area.
Non-scarring hair loss is the most common. Among them is telogen effluvium, which consists of an increase in daily hair loss, the result of a diffuse and abrupt migration of hair into the resting phase of the hair cycle (telogen). Among other reasons, it can be caused by restrictive diets, surgeries such as bariatrics and childbirth. Poor diet, significant emotional stress and some medications are also causes that can lead to hair loss.
According to the dermatologist, certain nutrients are linked to the proper functioning of the hair cycle. This is the case with iron, zinc and vitamins D and B12. Hair is made up of keratin. The elements that serve as raw materials for the production of this component, such as cystine, are also important.
This explains why treatments are often linked to the supplementation of nutrients and elements that work to build hair. This supplementation is important for the health of the body as a whole. "For example, a woman who loses a lot of iron during menstruation and has some comorbidity or associated medical history that could lead to anemia needs specific supplementation, unlike a woman who loses another nutrient. That's why, before using any medication, you should seek advice from a doctor, especially one with experience in hair complaints and who is a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology."
Another important aspect for people with this condition is patience. "Hair treatment will only show clinically visible results after three to four months, in general. However, it can take even longer, depending on the patient's clinical condition. Interruptions in treatment directly affect the result. It's also worth remembering that we need to take care of the emotional aspect, whether it's the quarantine period or not, so that we don't have repercussions in other areas of our body. We are living through an atypical moment, but it will pass, just like all the difficult phases we all face throughout our lives," the dermatologist reminds us.
https://bemzen.com.br/noticias/ver/2020/09/10/9578-queda-de-cabelo-na-quarentena