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If
you are experiencing hair loss, you may have considered seeking
expert help for your problem. But who should you turn to? And
how do you know you're getting the best care?
Below, hair loss experts explain how you can find
professional help that is reliable, and right for you.
What's the most common cause of hair
loss in men and women?
NEIL SADICK, MD: The three most common causes of hair loss are
genetic. The state of your parents hair can tell you a lot about
whether you're going to lose your hair during your lifetime. In
both men and women.
Who should a person turn to first
when they're seeking help?
NEIL SADICK, MD: Dermatologists are experts in the field of hair
disorders. All dermatologists are trained in the general
knowledge and treatment of hair loss disorders, but not all
dermatologists choose to do this. A dermatologist will often
refer to a specialist. Most dermatologists who are trained and
have some expertise in this area usually deal both with men and
women.
Should patients consider
over-the-counter products or products that they hear advertised
on the radio or television?
MICHAEL REED, MD: Over-the-counter minoxidil, which is the brand
Rogaine, is FDA approved. It's been shown to be effective in
scientific studies. Propecia is the new drug on the block, and
that probably is more effective. It's a pill that you take once
a day, and that has been shown to slow down hair loss and grow
hair in a significant number of individuals. Most of the other
preparations that are heavily advertised or marketed are not
proven to be effective.
Any product that is advertised as being effective in
regrowing hair and absolutely devoid of side effects has got to
be untrue, because there's a basic law of pharmacology that
every drug that works has some side effects in certain
circumstances. So I would just use that as a guide in using
these over-the-counter preparations.
As a person searches for a hair loss
expert for treatment, is there anyone he should be careful to
avoid?
NEIL SADICK, MD: I would not turn to anyone who has no
experience and no interest in treating patients with hair
disorders. You need to be sure that the physician who you're
consulting has a particular interest in treating your problem,
because many dermatologists themselves are not particularly
interested in treating hair disorders.
But how does a person realistically
find out if that doctor is any good at hair replacement therapy?
MICHAEL REED, MD: If you want to get a referral, you can check
with the American Academy of Dermatology. You can call the local
medical centers, and speak to the department of dermatology to
find out if they have a specialist in that area.
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