Hair growth in men and women: Differences

Chapter 1: Understanding the growth of hair and factors affecting it

Hair growth is a complex biological process subject to the influence of many factors, both internal and external. First of all, it is necessary to understand the hair growth cycle consisting of three main phases:

• Anagen (growth phase): The duration of this phase determines the length to which the hair can grow. Usually lasts from 2 to 7 years. In men, anagen can be shorter, which explains why hair grows less often to a considerable length.
• Katagen (Phase of Transition): The transition phase lasting about 2-3 weeks, during which the hair follicle is reduced, and hair growth stops.
• Telogen (Phase Salm): The resting phase lasting about 3 months, during which old hair remains in the follicle, and the new hair begins to form. At the end of the teenel, the old hair falls out, and the cycle begins again.

Violation of any of these phases can lead to hair loss, deceleration of growth and deterioration in hair quality. Various factors can affect the hair growth cycle:

• Genetics: Heredity plays a key role in determining the type of hair, density and a tendency to loss. Androgenic alopecia (baldness by male type) is a vivid example of genetically determined hair loss.
• Hormonal background: Hormones, especially androgen (such as dihydrotestosterone – DGT), have a significant effect on hair growth. DGT can cause miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to thinning and hair loss, especially in men. In women, hormonal changes during pregnancy, after childbirth and during menopause, can also affect hair growth.
• Nutrition: The lack of important nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc, biotin and B vitamins, can adversely affect the health of the hair and slow down their growth.
• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to heterogeneous efluvia – the temporal loss of hair caused by the premature transition of hair follicles to the rest phase.
• Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases (for example, focal alopecia), thyroid disease and scalp infection, can cause hair loss.
• Medicines: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, anti -impoverished drugs and drugs for chemotherapy, may have a side effect in the form of hair loss.
• Hair care: Aggressive styling methods, frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and chemical curls can damage the hair and slow down their growth.

Chapter 2: Causes of hair loss in men and women: key differences

Although many factors affecting hair growth, common to men and women, there are specific causes of hair loss characteristic of each gender.

Men:

• Androgenic alopecia (baldness by male type): The most common cause of hair loss in men, due to a genetic predisposition and exposure to DGT on hair follicles. Hair loss usually begins with a bald spot in the temporal region and thinning of the hair on the crown.
• Age: With age, hair follicles become less active, and hair growth slows down.
• Prostate diseases: Some diseases of the prostate and drugs used to treat them can affect the hormonal background and promote hair loss.
• Anabolic steroid: The use of anabolic steroids can increase the level of DGT and lead to hair loss.

Women:

• Androgenic alopecia (baldness according to the female type): Although androgenic alopecia is more common in men, it can also affect women, especially during menopause, when the level of estrogen decreases. In women, hair loss usually occurs in the form of diffuse thinning of hair throughout the head, and not in the form of a bald spot.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and menopause can cause significant hormonal vibrations that can lead to hair loss.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCU): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause an increase in the level of androgens and lead to hair loss, as well as to other symptoms, such as acne and hirsutism (excess hair growth on the body).
• Thyroid diseases: As hypothyroidism (insufficient function of the thyroid gland), and hyperthyroidism (excessive function of the thyroid gland) can cause hair loss.
• Iron deficiency (iron deficiency anemia): Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss in women, especially in those who have abundant menstruation or who adhere to a strict vegetarian diet.
• Strict diets and insufficient nutrition: Restrictive diets aimed at rapid weight loss can lead to a deficiency of important nutrients and cause hair loss.
• Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension, for example, with tight braids, ponytails or hair extension.
• Telogen Efluvia: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, illness, surgery or taking certain drugs.

Chapter 3: Hair growth: General components and action mechanisms

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for hair growth contain various vitamins, minerals, plant extracts and other substances that are believed to contribute to hair growth and improve their quality. It is important to note that the effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, the causes of hair loss and the composition of the additive. It is necessary to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any diseases or take other medicines.

General components of dietary supplements for hair growth and their mechanisms of action:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): It plays an important role in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates necessary for cell growth, including the cells of the hair follicles. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails.
• B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12): Participate in various metabolic processes necessary for the health of the hair. For example, vitamin B3 (niacin) improves blood circulation in the scalp, and vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) helps to moisturize the hair.
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): An antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage by free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of hair.
• Vitamin D: He plays a role in the regulation of hair growth. The low level of vitamin D can be associated with hair loss.
• Vitamin E: An antioxidant that improves blood circulation in the scalp and protects the hair from damage.
• Iron: It is necessary to transport oxygen to hair follicles. Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss, especially in women.
• Zinc: Participates in the synthesis of protein and cell division necessary for hair growth. It also has antioxidant properties.
• Selenium: An antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage. It is also necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays a role in hair growth.
• Copper: It is necessary for the synthesis of melanin, pigment, which gives the hair color. The deficit of copper can lead to premature hairline.
• Silicon: An important structural component of the hair that contributes to their strength and elasticity.
• Amino acids (L-cysteine, L-lisine, L-metionine): Building blocks of the protein made of which the hair consists of.
• Collagen: Protein that gives hair strength and elasticity.
• MSM (methyl sulfonylmetatan): The source of the sulfur necessary for the synthesis of collagen and keratin, the main protein of the hair.
• SAW Palmetto palm extract: Inhibitor 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that turns testosterone into DGT. It is believed that it can help reduce hair loss caused by DGT.
• Green tea extract: Contains antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage.
• Extract of grape seeds: Contains antioxidants that improve blood circulation in the scalp and protect the hair from damage.
• Bioperin (black pepper extract): Improves the absorption of other nutrients.

Chapter 4: Hair growth for men: specific components and strategies

Bades for hair growth intended for men often contain components aimed at combating androgenic alopecia and supporting the health of the prostate.

• SAW Palmetto palm extract: The key component used to block 5-alpha reductase and reduce the level of DGT. Studies show that it can be effective for slowing the hair loss caused by DGT. The dosage varies, but usually ranges from 160 to 320 mg per day.
• Piguum African: It is also considered an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase.
• Zinc: It is important for the health of the prostate and can help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to hair loss.
• Liquopin: An antioxidant that can protect prostate cells from damage.
• Dioecious nettle extract: It can help reduce the level of DGT.
• Pumpkin oil: Contains phytosterols that can block 5-alpha reductase.

Strategies:

• Inhibition of DGT: The main strategy is to block the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which turns testosterone into DGT. Serene palm extract and other plant components indicated above are used for this purpose.
• Improving blood circulation in the scalp: Some dietary supplements contain components that improve blood circulation in the scalp, which ensures the flow of more nutrients to hair follicles. For example, niacin (vitamin B3) has a vasodilating effect.
• Prostate health support: Prostate health is closely associated with a hormonal balance that affects hair growth.

Chapter 5: Hair growth for women: specific components and strategies

Bades for hair growth intended for women often contain components aimed at eliminating the deficiency of nutrients, supporting hormonal balance and reducing stress.

• Iron: An extremely important component for women, especially for those who have abundant menstruation or who adhere to a strict vegetarian diet. Before taking iron preparations, it is necessary to take a blood test in order to determine the level of ferritin (iron reserves).
• Biotin: It is important for the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates necessary for hair growth.
• Vitamin D: The low level of vitamin D is often found in women with hair loss.
• Collagen: Improves the strength and elasticity of the hair.
• Horsetail extract of the field: Contains silicon, which helps to strengthen hair.
• L-Lisin: The amino acid necessary for the synthesis of collagen and keratin.
• Inositol (Vitamin B8): It can help improve hormonal balance, especially in women with PCOS.
• Ashwaganda: Adaptogen, which helps to reduce stress and improve hormonal balance.
• Melatonin: The hormone that regulates sleep and can have an antioxidant effect on the hair follicles. Consultation with a doctor before taking.

Strategies:

• Elimination of nutrient deficiency: The main strategy is to replenish the deficiency of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for the health of hair.
• Hormonal balance support: Some dietary supplements contain components that help regulate the hormonal balance, especially in women with hormonal disorders, such as PCU.
• Reducing stress: Chronic stress can lead to hair loss. Adaptogens, such as Ashvaganda, can help reduce stress and improve the general health.
• Improving microcirculation in the scalp: Some dietary supplements contain components that improve blood circulation in the scalp, which ensures the flow of more nutrients to hair follicles.

Chapter 6: Additional factors affecting the effectiveness of dietary supplements

The effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth can vary depending on many factors:

• The cause of hair loss: Bades are most effective in cases where hair loss is caused by a deficiency of nutrients or hormonal imbalance. In cases where hair loss is caused by genetic factors (for example, androgenic alopecia), dietary supplements can help slow down the falling process, but not stop it completely.
• Quality and composition of the dietary supplement: It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers that guarantee the quality and cleanliness of the ingredients. The composition of the dietary supplement must comply with your individual needs.
• Individual characteristics of the body: The reaction to dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, such as age, state of health, metabolism and genetic predisposition.
• Dosage and duration of the reception: It is important to observe the recommended dosage and duration of the reception indicated on the package of the dietary supplement. The effect of taking dietary supplements is usually not immediately manifested, but after a few months.
• A combination with other treatment methods: Bades can be more effective if they are combined with other treatment methods, such as minoxidal, finsteride (for men), PRP therapy (plasmolifting) and laser therapy.
• Life: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and stress control, can significantly improve the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth.
• The presence of concomitant diseases: Some diseases, such as thyroid diseases and autoimmune diseases, can affect the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Taking other drugs: Some drugs can interact with dietary supplements and influence their effectiveness or cause side effects.

Chapter 7: possible side effects and contraindications

Although hair growth dietary supplements are usually considered safe, some people may have side effects.

• Biotin: In high doses, false positive results of tests for thyroid hormones.
• Iron: It can cause constipation, nausea and abdominal pain.
• Zinc: In high doses can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
• Serene palm extract: It can cause stomach disorder, headache and libido decrease.
• Ashwaganda: It can cause drowsiness and disorder of the stomach.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergies to certain components of dietary supplements.

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Some dietary supplements can be dangerous for pregnant and lactating women.
• Kidney and liver diseases: Some dietary supplements can provide a load on the kidneys and liver.
• Taking drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs.
• Individual intolerance: Some people may have individual intolerance to certain components of dietary supplements.

Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take other medicines.

Chapter 8: Clinical research and evidence base

The evidence base for the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth varies depending on the component. Some components have more scientific data confirming their effectiveness than others.

• Biotin: Studies show that biotin is effective for the treatment of hair loss caused by biotin deficiency. However, a biotin deficiency is relatively rare.
• Iron: Studies show that iron additives are effective for the treatment of hair loss caused by iron deficiency.
• Serene palm extract: Some studies show that the Extract of the Palm Cerenia can be effective for slowing the hair loss caused by DHT. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
• Vitamin D: Some studies show the relationship between the low level of vitamin D and hair loss. However, additional studies are needed to determine whether the techniques of vitamin D can stop hair loss.
• Collagen: Some studies show that the intake of collagen can improve the strength and elasticity of the hair. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

It is important to note that many studies on the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth have a small number of participants and a short duration. Larger and long -term studies are needed to get more convincing results.

Chapter 9: Alternative methods of treating hair loss

In addition to dietary supplements, there are other methods of treating hair loss, which can be more effective in some cases.

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): The drug for external use, which stimulates hair growth. Effective for both men and women.
• Finasteride (Propecia): The drug for oral administration, which blocks 5-alpha reductase and reduces the level of DGT. Designed only for men.
• Laser therapy (LLLT): Low -intensity laser therapy can stimulate hair growth.
• PRP therapy (plasmolifting): Plasma injections enriched with platelets in the scalp can stimulate hair growth.
• Hair transplant: The surgical procedure in which hair follicles are transplanted from the donor zone to the baldness zone.

Chapter 10: Recommendations for the choice of dietary supplements and consultations with a doctor

• Determine the cause of hair loss: Before you start taking any dietary supplements, it is important to determine the cause of hair loss. Contact a trichologist or dermatologist for diagnosis.
• Study the composition of the dietary supplement: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains components that can be effective for your specific reason for hair loss.
• Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers: Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers that guarantee the quality and cleanliness of the ingredients.
• Follow the recommended dosage: Follow the recommended dosage and duration of the reception indicated on the package of dietary supplements.
• Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take other medicines.
• Be realistic: Bades can help slow down hair loss and improve their quality, but they are not a miraculous tool. The effect of taking dietary supplements is usually not immediately manifested, but after a few months.
• Do not self -medicate: Self -medication can be dangerous for your health. Contact the doctor to receive qualified assistance.
• Combine dietary supplements with other treatment methods: Bades can be more effective if they are combined with other treatment methods, such as minoxidal, finsteride (for men), PRP therapy (plasmolifting) and laser therapy.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and stress control, can significantly improve the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth.

In conclusion, it is important to note that the choice of dietary supplements for hair growth is an individual process. It is necessary to take into account the reason for the hair loss, the composition of the dietary supplement, the individual characteristics of the body and consult a doctor to receive qualified assistance.