Thin hair, lacking density, can be a major concern for every woman who cares about the appearance and beauty of her hair. This problem may suddenly worsen for some women, negatively affecting the appearance of their hair and their self-confidence. She finds herself in a vicious circle wondering: What should I do about my very thin hair? Here at                Dalili Medical, we provide support for every woman and man who suffers from this problem. Find out more details in this article.

- How long does it take to see results after starting treatment?

 

The period required to see results can range from 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of treatment used and the body's response to it. It is important to continue treatment and follow the doctor's instructions to achieve the best results.

- Does psychological stress affect hair health?

 

Yes, psychological stress can have a major impact on hair health, which may lead to hair loss. Therefore, it is recommended to practice relaxation techniques and reduce stress to maintain hair health.

- What products should be avoided to maintain hair health?

 

You should stay away from products that contain sulfates, silicones, and alcohol, as they can cause dryness and weakness in the hair. It is preferable to choose gentle products that are free of harsh chemicals to maintain healthy hair.

Does cutting your hair help thicken it?

 

Cutting your hair every 4 months is an important step that you should remember to do, as the ends are the most vulnerable to factors that lead to hair damage. As the dryness and split ends worsen, the strands lose their strength, health, and shine, which leads to hair breakage and loss. It is also necessary to provide it with the necessary care, by using products suitable for your hair type, and applying nourishing masks from time to time. You can also massage your scalp with beneficial natural oils, such as olive oil, argan oil, and almond oil, as they are essential ingredients to prepare a mask that nourishes the hair, scalp, and follicles, and helps treat many problems such as dandruff and dryness.

How do you choose the most beautiful hairstyle for your thin hair?

 

If your hair is thin, the first step you should consider is to start applying a treatment that helps thicken it and reduce hair loss. It is preferable to do this under the supervision of specialists who provide you with appropriate advice, as the available methods vary between using certain products or undergoing modern medical techniques such as injecting the scalp with blood plasma extracted from your body. To determine the most suitable hairstyle and cut for you, make sure that they contribute to making your thin hair appear thick, suit the shape of your face and reflect your personality.

What is thin hair?

 

Regardless of your age or hair type, thin hair can affect your appearance. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the normal rate of hair loss ranges from 50 to 100 hairs per day. If the amount of hair loss exceeds this rate, this means that you are suffering from hair loss more than usual, which may lead to overall hair thinning. Thin hair refers to a loss of hair density in the scalp, which means that the hair follicles have become smaller, which leads to finer and sometimes shorter hair, thus reducing the volume and density of the hair in general. Thinning hair occurs when you lose your hair and the density of the hair on your scalp decreases.

What is the difference between fine hair and thin hair?

 

What should I do if my hair is very thin? First, it is important to understand the difference between fine hair and thin hair. Not all fine hair is thin, and vice versa. Fine hair refers to the texture and diameter of the hair strands, meaning that your hair strands are thin. However, you may have a large number of follicles on your scalp. Thin or fine hair, on the other hand, expresses the overall density of the hair and refers to the amount of hair on your scalp.

What are the symptoms of thin hair?

 

1. **Decreased hair density**: Hair becomes less dense when combed or styled.

2. **Clearly visible scalp**: The scalp can be clearly seen, especially in certain areas such as the front hairline or the crown of the head.

3. **Increased hair loss**: A person notices an increase in the amount of hair falling out while showering or on the pillow after sleeping.

4. **Receding hairline**: The front or side hairline may recede, making the forehead appear wider.

5. **Hair weakness and damage**: Hair becomes more fragile and prone to breakage, making it difficult to style or maintain.

6. **Hair growth slowdown**: Hair grows more slowly than usual, or split ends appear frequently.

**Distinguishing between thin hair and natural hair loss**

 

It is necessary to understand the difference between thin hair and natural hair loss to determine the severity of the condition and its need for treatment:

**Natural hair loss:** Losing about 50-100 hairs per day is considered normal, as it is part of the hair growth cycle. This type of hair loss is not noticeable and does not significantly affect hair density.

**Thin hair:** In the case of hair thinning, hair loss becomes more noticeable and occurs continuously, leading to a noticeable decrease in hair density. In this case, the number of hairs falling out is greater than the number of new hairs, causing clear gaps to appear in the scalp.

**Diagnosis of thin hair**When a person begins to notice signs of hair thinning, it becomes necessary to consult a specialist doctor. The doctor will conduct the necessary tests to determine the root cause of the problem, including:

- **Blood test**: It is used to determine the levels of hormones, vitamins and minerals in the body, which may reveal iron or vitamin D deficiency or hormonal imbalances that may be responsible for hair loss.

- **Scalp and hair examination**: The doctor examines the scalp and hair follicles using magnifying tools to determine the presence of infections or skin diseases.

- **Hair pull test**: This test involves lightly pulling a group of hair to determine the amount of hair falling out and the ease of its falling out, whichIt helps in assessing the severity of the problem.

- **Light examination**: A special lamp is used to detect the presence of fungi or bacteria in the scalp, which may be the cause of hair loss.

- **Skin biopsy**: In more complex cases, a small sample of scalp skin can be taken for examination under a microscope, which helps in diagnosing skin and scalp diseases that lead to hair loss.

After conducting the necessary examinations, it is the role of doctors and specialists to determine the causes and appropriate treatment through the following steps:

**Accurate diagnosis:** The doctor analyzes the results of medical examinations to determine the possible causes of hair loss, which may be related to genetic, hormonal, nutritional or health factors.

**Developing a treatment plan:** Based on the diagnosis, the doctor prepares a customized treatment plan that includes medications, topical treatments or lifestyle changes. The plan may include taking nutritional supplements, using anti-hormonal medications, or applying treatments such as minoxidil.

**Advice:** Doctors and specialists provide advice on how to care for hair and scalp, including choosing the right products and avoiding factors that may lead to increased hair loss.

**Periodic follow-up:** Doctors follow up on the patient's condition on a regular basis to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make the necessary adjustments when needed.

Important questions when diagnosing hair loss?

 

When diagnosing hair loss, the doctor will collect medical information by questioning the patient with several questions that may help determine the cause of hair loss. These questions include:

- The medications or nutritional supplements the patient is taking.

- The diseases or health problems he suffers from.

- The type of food he eats and whether he follows a specific diet.

- The psychological and emotional state of the patient.

- Having a family history of hair loss.

- The types of hairstyles the patient uses.

- The products he uses for hair care.

- Whether the patient suffers from hair pulling disorder.

- If he has undergone any laboratory tests or examinations related to hair loss.

**Clinical Hair Loss Tests**After the doctor obtains the patient's medical history, he or she can perform a clinical examination. A clinical hair loss test usually involves plucking a few hairs or a hair loss analysis, where the doctor pulls a small amount of hair (about 100 strands) to determine how many hairs are falling out of the scalp. If the result is more than 3 hairs, this may indicate that the patient is suffering from hair loss in excess of the normal rate, which ranges from 1 to 3 hairs per pull.

The dermatologist can also examine the scalp using a microscope, in addition to analyzing the hair and measuring its density using a portable magnification device, which helps assess the size of the hair shaft.

If the patient is suspected of having an immune or skin disease, the dermatologist may take a biopsy from the scalp. If the clinical examination shows the presence of other diseases that may lead to hair loss, the doctor may order a set of tests to confirm these infections, as these tests are sometimes considered one of the most important steps necessary to diagnose hair loss.

**Vitamin and mineral tests**Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies are possible causes of hair loss, so checking their levels in the body is one of the most important tests to determine the cause of this problem. Vitamin and mineral tests that may be included in a hair loss test package include:

- Vitamin D test.

- Vitamin B test.

- Zinc test.

- Iron tests, which include blood iron level test, ferritin test, and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test.

**Causes of thinning hair**Losing between 50 and 100 hairs per day is normal and does not require concern. However, losing more than that due to one of the following reasons may lead to a significant decrease in hair density:

**Hair styling products** Hair styling products, such as setting spray, gel, permanent and temporary dyes, can damage hair, leading to a decrease in its density.

**Hair Styling Methods** Excessive lifting and pulling of hair can break hair from its follicles, which may cause hair loss over time. In addition, excessive curling of hair and the use of artificial hair extensions can reduce its thickness.

**Not eating a healthy and balanced diet** The body needs a range of vitamins, proteins, and minerals to maintain the natural growth of hair from the follicles. Therefore, it is necessary to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Iron, folic acid, and other minerals contribute to promoting natural hair growth, which requires consuming sufficient amounts of sources of these minerals and vitamins to maintain the health and thickness of the hair.

**Anxiety and stress** Anxiety and stress levels can affect hair health, leading to hair loss.

**Physiological stages** In some cases of pregnancy, the mother may notice a decrease in the density of her hair due to the hormonal changes she is going through, in addition to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals in some cases. Furthermore, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes increased hair growth on the face and other areas of the body, while reducing hair growth on the scalp due to high levels of male hormones, especially androgen.

**Fungal infections of the hair** Fungal infections can cause hairless patches on the scalp, which require treatment with antifungals. This condition is contagious, so precautions should be taken to avoid transmitting the infection to other people or to other areas of the scalp.

**Alopecia Areata** is characterized by circular patches of hairless patches in areas of hair growth. Each mGenetic and environmental factors are the main causes of this disease. Hair follicles remain alive and able to produce new hair, so the condition can be treated with local injections in the affected area.

**Chemotherapy and radiation** Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy affect hair follicles, leading to significant hair loss. When these treatments stop, hair follicles begin to produce new hair.

**Genetic factor** The effect of genetic factor increases with age, becoming more apparent after the age of fifty in men and after menopause in women. However, its effect may also appear in teenagers.

**Vitamin D deficiency** Vitamin D contributes to stimulating the activity of hair follicles to produce new hair, so low levels of vitamin D may lead to hair thinning.

**Thyroid diseases** Hair growth problems are often observed in conjunction with thyroid disorders, whether as a result of hyperthyroidism or laziness.

**Using certain medications** Some medications, such as blood thinners, heart medications, high blood pressure medications, arthritis medications, and depression medications, can reduce hair density.

**Stopping birth control** Losing more than 15 pounds (about 7 kilograms) in a short period of time.

**Immunodeficiency diseases and self-medication** Having immunodeficiency diseases and undergoing treatment for autoimmune diseases.

**Skin diseases and infections** Skin diseases and infections can affect hair health.

**Methods for treating thin hair**

You can treat thin hair by one of the following methods:

 

**Scalp massage** It is recommended to massage your scalp with your fingertips while showering, as this helps increase blood flow to the area. You can also use scalp massagers to remove dead skin cells.

**Using therapeutic oils** Some therapeutic oils, such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, and cedar oil, can help treat thin hair. It is important to apply a small amount of any of these oils to the skin before applying it to the scalp, and wait for 24 hours to ensure that there is no allergy.

**Using hair thickening shampoo** This type of shampoo helps thicken hair and maintain scalp health, which enhances the production of healthy and vibrant hair, thanks to its vitamins and amino acids. It is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the appropriate type of shampoo and how to use it according to the condition.

**Eating a healthy and balanced diet** Hair needs a group of minerals and vitamins such as iron, folic acid, and zinc to maintain its growth and vitality, so it is necessary to adhere to a healthy and balanced diet. Meals can include various food sources such as eggs, fish, cheeses, grains, nuts, liver, and milk, in addition to vegetables and fruits.

**Taking nutritional supplements** In some cases, the doctor may recommend taking nutritional supplements alongside a balanced diet to meet the body's needs for vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, omega-3, omega-6, and other supplements depending on the condition. It is important to consult a doctor before starting to take any type of nutritional supplements to ensure that the benefit is achieved without any side effects.

**Treatment of hair loss with minoxidil** Minoxidil can be used to treat hair loss in both women and men. This medication is available in the form of a liquid or foam that is rubbed into the scalp, and the results begin to appear after at least six months. The patient must continue to use this medication to maintain the results. It is also worth noting the importance of adhering to the instructions for use to achieve the best results

**Treatment of hair loss with finasteride:** Finasteride is used to treat hair loss, as it is taken once daily by men. Studies have shown that men who used finasteride experienced a decrease in hair loss and began to notice new hair growth. However, it should be noted that the effectiveness of finasteride may be limited in men over the age of 60.

**Treatment of hair loss with Spironolactone:** Spironolactone is an effective hormonal treatment for hair loss, as it works to bind to androgen receptors and reduce the effect of testosterone in the body.

**Treatment of hair loss with cortisone injections:** An improvement in hair growth is observed after about 3 weeks of using corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid Injections), and treatment can be repeated after a period ranging from 4 to 6 weeks. However, the use of these injections may be accompanied by some side effects, such as atrophy and thinning of the scalp skin.

**Use of steroids** Some inflammatory conditions in the body can lead to hair loss, which negatively affects its density. In these cases, the doctor may recommend the use of medications such as steroids to treat inflammation, which helps maintain the health and vitality of the hair.

**Home laser treatment**Home laser devices are used to stimulate hair growth and increase its density. It is important to note that results may take a long time, up to several months. It is advisable to consult with specialists before purchasing these devices to ensure their effectiveness for your condition.

**Platelet-rich plasma therapy** is a popular treatment for hair loss today. Plasma injection increases blood flow to hair follicles, which improves hair growth and increases hair thickness.

**Hair transplant** Hair can be transferred from areas with high density to areas suffering from thinning hair as a solution to the problem of hair loss. Hair transplantation is more effective in men than women, as itHair loss in men is usually in specific areas, while women may experience hair loss all over the scalp, making hair transplant treatment more complex.

**Increase protein intake:** Hair loss may be caused by a lack of protein in the diet. Individuals' protein needs vary based on muscle mass and level of physical activity. Foods rich in protein include eggs, beans, and fish.

**Increase iron intake:** Getting enough iron helps treat hair loss and promote hair growth. There are many foods that are recommended to be eaten to increase iron levels in the body, such as lentils, oysters, and spinach.

**Fenugreek seed paste:** Fenugreek seeds are an effective treatment for hair loss, as they contain hormones that promote hair growth and help rebuild hair follicles. Fenugreek seeds also have antibacterial properties, which helps treat dandruff.

Coconut milk: Coconut contains fatty acids that reduce protein loss from the hair, making the hair healthier and stronger and contributing to solving hair loss. Coconut also contains some minerals and proteins that treat hair loss.

Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is a solution to many hair problems, including treating hair loss, as it increases blood flow to the scalp, and contains many vitamins important for hair such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

Onion juice: Onion juice contains a high percentage of sulfur, which enhances blood circulation in the scalp to prevent the death of scalp cells and hair loss.

Eggs: An egg mask is used to treat split ends and hair loss, as it contains a high percentage of iodine, selenium, phosphorus, iron, sulfur, and zinc.

**Licorice root paste**: Licorice is an effective herb that treats many hair and scalp problems. It helps eliminate dandruff, which helps open pores and soothe irritation. To prepare licorice paste, soak the root in milk overnight, then grind it to become a thick paste that is applied directly to the areas affected by hair loss in the scalp.

**Hair loss treatment with garlic:** Garlic is considered one of the herbs rich in antibiotics that enhance scalp health. Garlic can be cut into small pieces and added to shampoo bottles, or garlic paste can be used with cream baths for best results.

The most prominent vitamins and nutrients that contribute to treating the problem of thin hair:

- Iron

- Protein

- Biotin

- Vitamins: E, B, A, C, K

- Sulfur (found in eggs, nuts, soy, and onions)

- Omega 3 and Omega 6

**Daily hair care:**

We will provide a set of tips to maintain healthy hair and reduce thinning:

1. **Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner:** It is preferable to use products free of sulfates and harsh chemicals that may weaken the hair.

2. **Avoid excessive use of thermal styling tools:** It is recommended to reduce the use of dryers and hair irons, and to use heat protectants when needed.

3. **Massage your scalp regularly:** Massage helps to enhance blood flow to hair follicles, which contributes to enhancing hair growth.

4. **Avoid stress:** Psychological stress negatively affects hair health, so it is important to practice relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation.

5. **Follow a balanced diet:** Eating a diet that contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc is essential to ensure healthy hair.

**How ​​to deal with thin hair in daily life**

 

Dealing with thin hair can be a big challenge, but by following some simple tips, you can maintain healthy hair and reduce hair thinning:

1. **Hair care**: It is preferable to avoid rubbing your hair vigorously while washing or drying it with a towel. Instead, use soft and gentle movements to maintain healthy hair.

2. **Avoid tight hairstyles**: It is advisable to avoid tight hairstyles such as tight braids and high buns, as they can pull the hair and weaken its follicles.

3. **Maintaining a clean scalp**: Washing your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo helps keep your scalp clean and healthy, which promotes hair growth.

4. **Using the right products**: Choosing the right products can go a long way in caring for and strengthening thin hair.

**Shampoo and conditioner:** It is preferable to choose products that are free of sulfates, silicones, and alcohol, as these ingredients can lead to dryness and brittleness of the hair. Instead, look for shampoos and conditioners that contain nourishing ingredients such as biotin and proteins.

**Strengthening products:** Using hair strengthening products such as serums and natural oils, which contain ingredients such as argan oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil, is beneficial for nourishing and strengthening the hair.

**Styling products:** It is important to choose lightweight styling products that do not weigh down the hair, such as mousse and spray designed to increase volume.

**Hair Styling Techniques to Increase Volume**The right hair styling techniques that we will review can help boost volume and make your hair appear fuller:

1. **Upside Down Drying**: Drying your hair upside down with a blow dryer helps add extra volume, and using a round brush while drying helps lift the hair from the roots.

2. **Curling and Wave**: Using a curling iron or rollers to curl your hair gives it a thicker and more voluminous appearance.

3. **Layered Styling**: Cutting your hair in different layers can create a fuller look, as layered cuts add volume and movement to your hair.

4. **Using Powders and Mousses**: Powders and mousses designed specifically to increase volume can help lift your hair and make it appear fuller.

What Can a Person Expect from Different Treatments?

 

When Starting AnyTreatment for thinning hair It is essential for a person to have realistic expectations about the possible results. The effectiveness of treatments depends on several factors, such as the cause of hair loss and how committed a person is to the treatment. Here is what to expect from some common treatments:

**Medical treatments (such as minoxidil and finasteride):**

**Expected results:** It may take 3 to 6 months to see noticeable results. Minoxidil helps stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss, while finasteride works to block the hormonal effects that lead to hair loss.

**Realistic:** Results may vary from person to person, as some may notice a significant improvement in hair density, while others may see less noticeable effects.

**Natural treatments (such as essential oils and nutritional supplements):**

**Expected results:** These treatments can contribute to improving hair health in the long term and reducing hair thinning. For example, essential oils such as castor oil and coconut oil can help nourish and strengthen hair.

**Realism:** These treatments are often most effective when incorporated into an ongoing hair care routine.

**Cosmetic treatments (such as hair transplantation and low-level laser):**

**Expected results:** Hair transplantation provides permanent and visible results, but requires a recovery period before the final results are seen. On the other hand, low-level lasers promote hair growth and increase hair density after several sessions.

**Realism:** Hair transplantation requires a significant financial and time investment, while lasers may be less effective for people with severe hair loss.

Understanding realism and potential results:

It is important for individuals to realize that the results of treatments may vary from person to person based on their personal circumstances. Therefore, they should have a realistic view of what can be achieved from different treatments, by considering the following points:

1. **Continuity of treatment**: Some treatments require continued use to maintain results. For example, minoxidil must be used regularly to maintain the hair growth achieved.

2. **Adapting to the results**: Even with the most effective treatments, hair may not fully return to its original density. In this case, the goal of treatment should be to improve the current situation and reduce ongoing loss.

3. **Patience**: Seeing results from any treatment requires time and patience. Therefore, a person should adhere to the prescribed treatment for a sufficient period before evaluating its effectiveness.

4. **Consult with specialists: Consulting a dermatologist or hair specialist can help set realistic expectations and provide a personalized treatment plan that suits the individual’s condition and needs.