Androgenic alopecia and alopecia areata are two distinct types of hair loss conditions with different causes, characteristics, and treatment approaches. Androgenic alopecia is primarily genetic and hormone-related, while alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles. The patterns of hair loss, age of onset, and treatment options differ between these two conditions.
Androgenic Alopecia
Androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness (in men) and female pattern baldness (in women), is a common cause of hair loss. It is a genetic condition characterized by the gradual thinning of hair and the eventual loss of hair in a specific pattern.
Androgenic alopecia is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors and the presence of androgens, which are male sex hormones (such as dihydrotestosterone or DHT). DHT can shrink hair follicles over time, leading to shorter and finer hair until hair growth eventually stops.
In men, androgenic alopecia often begins with receding hairline and thinning at the crown. In women, it typically results in diffuse thinning of hair over the top of the scalp. The pattern of hair loss differs between men and women. It can start at any age, but it most commonly begins in men during their late teens to early 20s and in women during their 40s or 50s.
The most obvious symptom is hair loss, but it may also be accompanied by other signs like an itchy or tingling scalp. In men, hair loss often progresses to form an "M" shape, while in women, it tends to result in overall thinning.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss in small, round, or oval patches on the scalp or other areas of the body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. This condition can affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds.
The hallmark of alopecia areata is the sudden onset of hair loss in well-defined, circular or oval patches. These patches are typically smooth, and the skin may appear normal. In some cases, the condition progresses to more extensive hair loss, affecting larger areas of the scalp (alopecia totalis) or even the entire body (alopecia universalis).
The exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition. In individuals with alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development.
While the exact triggers for alopecia areata are unclear, stressful life events, illnesses, and other environmental factors are thought to contribute to its onset or exacerbation in some cases.
Chinese Herbal Medicine Against Hair Loss
Chinese herbal medicine has a long history of being used to address hair loss and promote hair growth. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners often focus on the underlying imbalances in the body that may be contributing to hair loss. The approach typically involves custom herbal formulations tailored to the individual's specific pattern of imbalance. While individual results can vary, here are some Chinese herbs and herbal formulations that are commonly used for hair loss:
- Polygonum Multiflorum (He Shou Wu): This herb is used to nourish the liver and kidneys, promoting hair growth and potentially addressing the underlying imbalances associated with hair loss.
- Ligustrum (Nu Zhen Zi): Ligustrum is sometimes used in combination with other herbs to support hair growth and prevent hair loss.
- Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui): Dong Quai is known for its potential to improve blood circulation and balance hormonal levels, which can impact hair health.
- Black Sesame Seeds (Hei Zhi Ma): Hei Zhi Ma is sometimes used in TCM and traditional remedies to promote hair health and prevent premature graying. The nutrients in black sesame seeds are thought to benefit the hair and scalp.
- Eclipta prostrata (Han Lian Cao): Eclipta prostrata is traditionally used in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to promote hair growth, strengthen hair follicles, and prevent premature graying of hair. It is believed to nourish the scalp and support overall hair health.
- Curcumin (Jiang Huang): Research suggests that curcumin - also commonly known as turmeric - has a positive impact on overall health and the potential to address certain skin and scalp conditions.
It's important to note that TCM treatments for hair loss are highly individualized. At our Clinic Chinese Herbal Medicine Sydney CBD we will assess your specific pattern of imbalance and create a custom herbal formula to address your unique needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.