Hair Loss Solutions for Young Men

By Corey F Will

Many men start balding at a young age. This can be very detrimental for ones confidence and self-esteem. That is why it is important to learn about hair loss solutions for young men. This article will go over four different methods to helps prevent further hair fall.

Hair Loss Solutions for Young Men - 4 Tips

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Many men don't understand how important it is to live healthy in order to keep hair healthy. Having a diet consisting of cigarettes, caffeine, and refined carbohydrates will destroy your hair follicles over time. However, exercising and taking in essential vitamins can help prevent hair fall. Try to get your daily dose of essential B vitamins. Also, foods such as eggs, spinach, chicken, and nuts contain Biotin, a vitamin which helps hair growth.

Try a Hair Loss Treatment

There are all sorts of hair regrowth treatments. Some treatments are completely natural while others contain chemicals which help follicle help. Some of the most popular treatments contain Minoxidil while others contain Biotin, Saw Palmetto, and other ingredients to help grow hair. The most important thing is to find a treatment that you will stick to and use regularly. Missing treatments can keep hair from growing and make your hair regrowth journey that much harder.

Two products I have personally had success with are Provillus and Bosley Revive. Provillus is a product which contains a Minoxidil topical treatment and a natural supplement. Both work together to help add regrowth to my scalp. Bosley Revive is a hair loss shampoo, conditioner, and foam. I use all three at least once daily when I shower and it helps the thickness and health of my hair.

Deal With It

One way to deal with balding is to let it run its course. Many men decide to take this route so you are not alone. However, I have some suggestions in case you were deciding to just go bald. First off, make sure your hair is managed and tidy. Some men who let their hair fall out completely don't shave their heads. Nothing looks worse than a man growing his hair out while suffering from pattern baldness. Everyone can tell and no one thinks it looks good. You would be surprised at how you look bald if you never have been, and it probably is not as bad as you think.

Take Care of Your Hair

Stop using harsh products and gels. Don't pick up that cheap hair spray at the store any longer. If you do not take care of your hair then it will not take care of itself. Focus on using natural hair care products that won't be detrimental to your follicles over time.

These are four hair loss solutions for young men. You can either deal with it or fight it. Personally, I decided to fight my balding with treatments and by changing my lifestyle. It has been working for me so far after two years.

My name is Corey Will and I have been researching hair loss for over two years. My website is http://www.solutionsforhairloss.org and it is about 6 months old. I provide people with information on hair loss solutions and hair growth treatments. My goal is to give the best quality information to my readers absolutely free. Check out my article about Hair Loss Solutions.

Thanks for taking the time to read this article.

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African American Children, Hair Care and Self Esteem - It's A Big Deal!

By Recco Richardson

Self Esteem And Black Hair Care - It's A Big Deal!

Hair is an area that holds special significance for African Americans. Today, myriad styles are prominent. For men, some wear fades, short afros, dreadlocks, French braids, bald heads, etc. For women, there are sister locks, zillions, wigs, weaves, French braids, relaxers, natural hair, finger waves, etc. The style flexibility is incredible. When an African American is having a great hair day, there are lots of smiles.

There is a trend where African American children are being raised by parents or guardians who may not know much about combing curly/kinky hair. First, this can occur if a black child is adopted by a non-black family. Second, if an interracial couple has a child, perhaps the primary caregiver in the relationship knows little about managing curly/kinky hair. Third, a hairstylist I once met said it best: "My mother, who is black, did not know how to comb hair." This hair stylist vowed as a child that she would not embarrass her children by sending them out in public with unkempt hair. Oprah Winfrey has told of the fond childhood memories of her grandmother oiling her scalp.  Yet Oprah now questions whether "oiling the scalp" helps at all.

The result of a lack of skill and knowledge in combing black hair is visible on a daily basis. I have walked past children with African ancestry who had badly damaged hair from too much heat and/or over processing. I have seen children who cut their fifteen inch curly/kinky hair to four inches because they did not know what else to do with it. In addition, I have seen children practically bald at the hairline from braids and ponytails being too tight. Bad hair days can take a toll on a child's self-esteem.

Take a look around and notice the hair of African American or bi-racial children. It's a big deal. To avoid bad hair, seek out a  licensed black hair care professional. Starting early in a child's life with hair maintenance can help adults and children of African ancestry learn how to properly care for curly/kinky hair.

Copyright 2010 All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

Email recco@richardsonsconsulting.com for questions or comments about this article.

Counseling for Adopted Children and Families: http://richardsonsconsulting.com/blog/

Recco S. Richardson holds an earned doctorate and is a Licensed, Board Certified Professional Counselor. Currently he has over 20 years of counseling experience and 10 years of clinical supervision experience. He has a keen eye towards helping individuals remove emotional and social barriers.

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How Fungal Infection Can Cause Hair Loss in Kids

By Brian Alexis

Kids don't usually suffer from hair loss. In fact, kids almost always have the thickest and richest hair; they're walking hallmarks of perfect hair. However, there is one condition wherein kids actually experience complete hair loss in some part of their scalp. When this happens, medical treatment should be carried out immediately.

Common Occurrence

Like other fungal infections, tinea capitis usually affects children that are in close contact with each other. When a space is densely populated by children with variable levels of personal hygiene, the proponent of tinea capitis is often passed on easily from one child to another.

Tinea capitis can also manifest itself in adults. However, the bulk of incidences happen in children who have come into contact with infected individuals.

Symptoms

Tinea capitis is quite unpleasant to look at. The beginning phases of fungal colonization resemble ordinary dandruff. Often, the child's head is covered by a blister-like formation that is painful and itchy to the touch. There is also the presence of flakes. Sections of the scalp are also afflicted with round, bald spots.

When a child is affected by tinea capitis, the lymph nodes also react to the fungal infection. Like cases of severe bacterial infection, the lymph nodes also react to the presence of fungi in the body. Try patting behind the ear to see whether the lymph nodes there are showing signs of inflammation.

Diagnosis

The most efficient way of determining whether a child has a fungal infection or not is by culturing a sample of the affected area. A single culture of infected hair is sufficient to determine whether a child indeed has tinea capitis. When viewed under a microscope, the hair culture would show the distinct fungal formations that are conclusive proof of the presence of fungus in the hair.

Treatment

Just like the treatment for severe toenail fungus, an oral medication is often prescribed to counter the fungal infection in the hair. Unfortunately, the full treatment of tinea capitis would take many months. There might be a chance that the visible infestation would disappear within a few weeks, but the child has to continue taking the oral medication to prevent recurrences.

Notes On The Severity Of The Alopecia

When tinea capitis is diagnosed early enough, the round, bald patches on the scalp of the child will eventually disappear. The hair will gradually re-grow, depending on how well the child responds to the oral antifungal regimen. If however, the child fails to tell his or her parents early enough, the fungal infection might enter a particular dangerous phase of sustained inflammation.

When sustained inflammation sets in, permanent damage might take place in the scalp. If this does happen, you have to be prepared for the possibility that the hair on your child's hair will not grow back anymore.

This is why it's so important to check your children's hair regularly, to avoid any unpleasant, permanent effects of such hair conditions. Tinea capitis is a form of scarring hair loss that may cause large bands of scars to form across the affected areas of the scalp.

Brian Alexis is an online medical researcher on hair and skin. There are 14 effective hair loss treatment products on the market that work well. To learn more visit Brian's site: http://www.hairlosstreatment-s.com/ now.

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Aromatherapy Formulas for Children With Alopecia Areata

By Melanie Vonzabuesnig

Aromatherapy is becoming a well-known and popular treatment for alopecia areata. Because alopecia areata is most prevalent in children, one must ask if these treatments are safe for children. With current treatments producing undesirable side effects and mediocre results, parents looking for alternatives may be tempted to purchase or make an essential oil treatment for their child's hair loss.

One of the most famous formulas is from a study conducted by dermatologists in Scotland. The results were impressive, concluding aromatherapy to be a safe and effective treatment for alopecia areata. This particular formula uses the essential oils of cedarwood, rosemary, lavender and thyme in a solution of grapeseed oil and jojoba.

While lavender oil is safe in small amounts even for very young children, cedarwood, rosemary and thyme are not recommended for children under a certain age. Certain chemo-types and variations of thyme should be avoided completely. As the child progresses in age and size more essential oils can be used safely.

Roman chamomile and lavender oil are generally safe choices for very young children (aged 2 and up). These oils are highly valued for scalp and hair care. They also have the ability to produce a soothing, relaxing effect that can assist a child dealing with the emotional aspects of hair loss. As the child grows in age more essential oils become safe to use. Eventually oil such as rosemary, geranium, marjoram, frankincense, cypress and rosemary can be incorporated in the formulas as long as they are in the proper dilution.

Another consideration is how potent the child's formula should be. Essential oils must be diluted into a carrier oil before they can be applied to the scalp. The younger the child, the more highly diluted the essential oils must be. Choosing the correct base oil is also important. Hazelnut or sweet almond oil are safe and gentle for small children, unless they have a nut allergy. In cases of nut allergies, olive oil can be used.

Extreme care must be taken when using essential oils on children. There is no such thing as a generic one-size-fits-all formula, especially when it comes to children. Safe effective scalp formulas for children can be achieved by using the correct essential oils in the proper dilution ratio. Aromatherapy can provide a safe and effective treatment for children with alopecia areata as long is it is used responsibly and all safety guidelines are adhered to. A trained aromatherapist can assist with creating a safe, effective, age-appropriate formula.

Improved hair growth is not the only benefit of aromatherapy scalp massage. Putting aside the time to massage the scalp of a child with alopecia areata can create a wonderful bonding experience for both the child and the parent. The soothing effects are therapeutic for both child and parent. As the parent gently massages aromatic oils into the child's scalp, a safe, nurturing environment is created. Because scent association and memory are intimately connected, the aroma of the essential oils can strengthen the connection between child and parent for years to come.

Learn to create your own NATURAL HAIR LOSS REMEDIES Detailed information and step-by-step instructions using essential oils and other natural ingredients for safe and effective hair loss treatments.

Melanie Vonzabuesnig used aromatherapy to successfully treat her own hair loss problem. She has become an advocate for women with hair loss issues. For aromatherapy hair loss formulas and information see: VZ BOTANICALS

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Learning How to Manage Your Baby's Hair

By Lori J Walker

Infant Hair Loss

Baby hair can puff out, fall out, get curly, or change colors. Find out ways to easily treat cradle cap, wash a fussy baby's hair, and learn about new ingredients to look for in shampoos. Sometimes it is a surprise to find that your baby, who was born with a full head of hair, is now having some hair loss and thinning. This is something that happens to many babies, although when it happens can be different. "It varies, either before delivery or right after birth during those first few weeks of life," says Dr. Stephen Muething, MD, Associate Director of Clinical Services in General and Community Pediatrics at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center. Why this happens is not really known, although it may have something to do with hormone levels. New hair grows at various times also. "Some babies have a full head of hair shortly after they are born, but usually during the nine- to 12-month range you can begin to see hair grow again. Although, some babies can go until their first birthday and still be bald," says Dr. Muething.

Bald Spots

Bald spots are a relatively new problem pediatricians are seeing. "We are beginning to notice an increase in babies with a rubbing bald spot on the back of their heads from being continually placed on their backs. This type of baldness does not cause any permanent damage, but it can be helped." says Dr. Muething.

Parents have been advised for years now, to always place sleeping babies on their backs to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Doctors are now noticing a flattening of babies' heads and patches of hair loss where babies continually rest their heads. "Now we are also recommending 'tummy-time' when the baby is awake," says Dr. Muething. "This decreases the hair loss and also prevents flattening of the head. It is better to start early, right from the start placing baby on the stomach. Babies then become accustomed to this position and actually enjoy it," Dr. Muething comments.

The Scoop on Cradle Cap

Your baby probably has cradle cap if you notice scaling skin on the scalp that often flakes off. Babies between six and 12 months generally are the most likely to get this condition, which usually is mild and does not cause any harm. You do not really need to do anything. Parents, not babies, are often the most bothered by cradle cap.

There are several simple treatments that can help remove the dryness of cradle cap. Many babies with cradle cap can be helped by simply massaging the scalp, using shampoo before rinsing well, and making sure that the hair is washed at least every other day. Adding mineral oil to the scalp where the cradle cap is, will soften the scaling before the hair is washed. For severe cradle cap, parents should consult with their Pediatrician. Other skin conditions it could be are scalp eczema, or scalp psoriasis.

Still No Hair!

Look to the scalp for answers. If the scalp looks healthy, the hair loss is just a normal part of being a baby. A healthy scalp looks soft, with no scaling, redness, or oozing. If these symptoms occur it is best to discuss them with your Pediatrician who can prescribe a topical ointment. If hair growth is still sparse by age two, a Specialist should look into the cause.

Hair Texture and Color Changes

Genetics play a large role in determining hair texture and color. Think back to your own baby pictures and look at your hair now. You may notice that your hair color is much different than when you were a baby. Usually baby hair curls more easily than adult hair because it is so much thinner and has less weight. The color of both hair and skin often darken during the first two to three years of life.

Hair Washing Made Easier

How can you find an easy way to wash your baby's hair? Distraction! Do not make a big deal out of washing their hair. Let the child play, sing to them, and while they are playing, gently wash and rinse their hair. Bathtub visors can be used to keep the bubbles out of your child's face. Try using a detachable shower head, which a toddler might find fascinating, or a damp cloth rather than running water. Usually, babies do not like to get water in their faces. Set aside enough time for a bath during these fussy stages and try to stay patient. Continuing to talk in a calm, encouraging tone will let your baby feel that there is nothing to be afraid of.

De-tangling Those Curls

Using a hair conditioner is always a good idea after shampooing, because it will be a lot easier to comb or brush the hair without tears. Specially designed kid-friendly, two-in-one shampoo and conditioners are now widely available. However, parents should not overdo washing their child's hair. In general, you should use less soap. Baths can become long play times, and usually parents will wash their children first and then let them play. It is better to have the bath play first and then save using the soap until the end of the bath.

The Best Shampoo for Baby

Shampoos that are designed for babies and children also usually state on the package as "tear-free." These shampoos use a mild detergent that will not sting the eyes. In addition, shampoos are now are being designed with natural ingredients, such as extra-mild botanical compounds and essential oils. Scented shampoos with ingredients like lavender or chamomile have been known to produce a soothing effect on the baby or toddler.

First Haircuts

When should you schedule that first haircut? Whenever you want to! There is really no rush. Cutting it during the first few years will not change the health of the hair, so it is entirely up to the parents. If you do not feel comfortable with scissors and you have a toddler that will not sit still, there are many hair salons that specialize in children's hair styling, with kid-friendly furniture, balloons, and silly themed rooms.

Styling a Little Ones Hair

Occasionally moms try to do certain styles, such as braids and pigtails, that can actually damage the hair. Hair in young children can be very fine and sometimes little ones can get hair loss from hairstyles that pull too tightly or are in place for a long period of time.

Many disorders can result from manipulation of the hair (such as traction Alopecia, in which tight braids or other hair styling can lead to hair loss at the sites of the greatest tension) or treatment with chemicals. Children should have simple styles and avoid excessive manipulation or treatments until they are older.

Lori J Walker writes articles relating to Babies and Parenting such as "Where Do I Start" Guide, "What's Hot in Nursery Decor" "10 Ways To Soothe A Fussy Baby" and more.

If you need a special Newborn Gift, you will find many things to look at, such as Baby Slings, Organic Blankets, Personalized Baby Keepsake Gifts, New Baby Gift Baskets, Nursery Music and other unique and affordable items. Most of her items are made in the USA. Please come by and visit [http://www.bestbabythings.com].

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What Causes Hair Loss Among Children?

By Aasheesh Jain

Hair loss is not only restricted to people of middle age or old age, it may even strike children. Although percentage of children suffering from loss of hair is comparatively very less than adults afflicted with it, an incredible number of American kids are facing trauma of untimely hair loss from scalp. And this number is increasing day by day.

Like adults even children suffer hair fall due to varied reasons. There are three or four types of probable reasons that contribute to hair loss among children. However a child's hair loss could be successfully treated provided dermatologist is successful in ascertaining the reason behind the loss.

Alopecia of kids is primary reason of hair fall in children. In United States itself around two million kids are afflicted with Alopecia. Although a good chunk of kids could be treated successfully, many kids are unable to re-grow hair and that make them live with the life time embarrassment and agony of not having hair on their scalp.

Following are the major causes responsible for hair fall among children:

1. Telogen Effluvium of kids: A severe shock, trauma and emotional distress can cause loss of hair among children. Though this is usually a temporary loss of hair. Even very high fever could contribute to this type of hair loss. Although follicles prove resilient when Telogen Effluvium strikes, the follicle's efficiency to regenerate hair get affected permanently. And in the long run, it facilitates permanent hair loss with aging.

2. Trichotillomania of kids: Well, this condition results in partial hair fall. This type of hair loss is unevenly spread over the scalp. It may also affect eye brows. The disease is defined as constant urge of kids to pull their own hair. This habit is usually an outcome of fear psychosis. So the root cause of problem needs to be addressed to cure Trichotillomania.

3. Tinea Capitis- The disease is also known as ringworm of scalps. This fungus propelled hair fall complication is a major contributor of hair fall among kids. It's a transmissible disease. Kids suffer from this type of hair loss but hardly realize that their scalp is afflicted with this fungus. Till the time parents notice it, the damage to follicles is already done. However this type of hair fall is curable and kids below ten must be saved against it.

4. Traction Alopecia of kids: Kids happen to be very careless and negligent towards hair and they put hair to various types of physical damage that could be a cause of hair fall among kids.

These are some important hair loss complications in kids. As a parent, it's your duty to provide your kids with enough hair safety so that they could not suffer hair fall.

Read More About Other Topics Like Acne Skin Care and Acne Rosacea

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Hair Loss in Children - Causes and Treatments

By Jessica Tanady

The problem of loss of hair isn't something that only happens to grown ups, because hair loss in children is also a possibility. The fact that it gets little attention from parents and most pediatricians does make the problem feel less exposed. Though there's a general feeling that children can't suffer from loss of hair, surveys shown that at least 3 percent of visits made to pediatric clinic involve cases of hair loss in children.

There are a number of medical conditions that can cause hair loss in children. Though most children can recover well without needing any medical treatment, some may require medical attention in order to reduce the hair loss and to promote hair growth back.

The most common cause for hair loss in children is the tinea capitis, which is also known as the ringworm of the scalp. This fungal infection affects not only the scalps area, but also the eyebrows and eyelashes. Attacking the hair shafts and follicles, this fungus can cause quite significant loss of hair in children.

There are some medications that can be administered to treat this type of parasite, one of which is the use anti-fungal medicine. The most widely used is the griseoulvin, an oral medicine that will need to be taken for two months for maximum result. In addition to taking the oral medicine, using anti-fungal shampoo such as Nizoral will also help.

The other cause of loss of hair in children is the autoimmune condition known as alopecia areata. It is a condition that occurs when the body's own immune system starts attacking the hair follicles, which will result in hair loss. Bald patches will occur all over the head within a couple of days. If left untreated for too long, a complete loss of hair may occur. Unfortunately, no effective medical treatment can be prescribed to treat the condition for now. Though doctors may prescribe some drugs that can lessen the effect instead and promote hair growth, the hair loss can recur anytime after the treatment.

Another common cause of hair loss in children is telogen effluvium. It occurs when some of the hair follicles are unable to give out new hair. This could be trigger by high fever, injuries, surgery, stress and more. Since the effect is temporary, no specific medication is required. The hair will resume normal growth after the successful treatment of the underlying cause.

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Hair Fall in Children

By Dr Mosaraf Ali

Question:

Over the past two years, my 19-year-old daughter has lost 50 per cent of her hair. A year ago I took her to see a trichologist who suggested that the pressure of exams was causing stress-related hair loss. She gave us hair treatments, none of which has worked. My daughter is now happily settled at university, but her hair looks worse. Is there anything you can suggest? I read that stress leads to increased levels of testosterone, which can cause hair loss.

Answer:

It's rare for a 19-year-old to lose so much hair unless she has had major nutritional or hormonal problems, or both. The most common cause of hair loss is poor nutrition.

The hair roots are 'alive' and their follicles are fed by tiny blood vessels that facilitate the hair growth. Without good nutrition, this growth is impossible. Protein is the building block for any growth. A strict vegan or vegetarian diet may lead to a deficiency of protein. Also, the vital oxygen supply to the hair roots may be seriously impaired by anaemia or extremely low blood pressure; both these conditions are characterised by chronic fatigue, dizziness, cold hands and feet, extreme paleness and easy bruising. Anaemia is often linked to heavy bleeding during periods and bad gastritis, which impairs iron absorption in the gut. Without oxygen, the roots will wither away and grows and/or repair activities in the body will stop.

The root cause of anaemia is that there are not enough red blood cells or that they are smaller than normal. This means they have less haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the tissues and removes the waste carbon dioxide. The number of red blood cells in blood depends on the bone marrow, which manufactures them, the iron level, the cobalt level, which is an essential part of haemoglobin, in the amount of protein (globulin).

You mention testosterone, which is principally thought of as the male reproductive hormone. Everyone has a balance between testosterone and oestrogen (one of the two female reproductive hormones, the other is progesterone). In women, oestrogen is predominant But there are situations in which the oestrogen level falls, so the ratio of testosterone to oestrogen becomes comparatively greater. This happens at menopause (obviously not your daughter's problem) and with conditions such as polycystic ovaries. In this situation, cysts destroy healthy ovary tissue so that the body's capacity to ovulate and produce oestrogen is drastically reduced. Oestrogen is directly linked to smooth skin and thick hair. If there is a deficiency of oestrogen and a rise in testosterone, it may affect hair growth.

Additionally, if the pituitary gland in the brain is impaired, oestrogen production may be reduced. The pituitary gland governs most of the hormones in the body. A trauma at birth or an), injury to the head and neck (including chronic problems caused by driving or sitting at a computer) may compromise the blood flow to the pituitary gland through the vertebral arteries which travel up the neck from the body to the head.

Another possibility is that the hair follicles are being attacked by a fungus and, because the roots are damaged, the hair falls out.

Your daughter should follow this programme carefully:

* Avoid yeast and fungal products (such as bread, pizza, cheese, mushrooms, vinegar, wine, beer).

* Avoid citrus fruits because acid makes the skin very sensitive and prevents iron absorption in the stomach.

* Avoid coffee, which constricts the blood vessels.

* Eat a good quantity of protein (eggs, chicken, meat, including liver, all organic if possible).

* Eat spinach, almonds that have been soaked in water, red apples, carrots and pomegranates, which contain cobalt.

* Take a multivitamin and mineral supplement such as One A Day Multi Vitamins and Minerals (tablets) for three months to ensure there is no deficiency.

* Massage the neck and shoulders with Lifestyle Oil or two drops of lavender essential oil mixed with one tablespoonful of sweet almond oil, focusing on the sides of the neck.

* Use Bhringraj oil, an Ayurvedic oil that provides optimal growing conditions for hair. Pour one tablespoonful on top of the head, pat gently into the scalp and allow it to spread gradually through the hair. Use finger tips to massage the scalp gently for five minutes until the oil is absorbed. Sleep with the oil in (put an old towel on the pillow). Next morning, wash the hair with simple shampoo. Gently work into a lather, wait for two minutes, then rinse with tepid water.

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Children's Hair Loss - Types of Hair Loss in Infants and Children

By Melanie Vonzabuesnig

It's natural for parents to become alarmed when they see locks of their babies hair falling out. Almost all newborns lose some (or all) of their hair during the first six months of life. This is a normal process. In most cases the hair eventually grows back, although the new hair may be a completely different color and texture than at birth!

A common condition, that may cause hair loss in infants is cradle cap. Cradle cap mainly affects infants between the ages of two to six months; causing a crusty, scaling scalp rash. Left untreated, cradle cap often clears up within several months. In severe cases it can cause itching and hair loss, and may also spread to other areas of the body.

Other forms of hair loss affecting infants are rare. They are often congenital in nature and may include hair shaft defects. As the child gets older they become more susceptible to various types of hair loss. After discussing the rare forms of hair loss which can affect infants and children, the more common forms will be addressed.

Congenital Atrichia

With congenital atrichia a child could be born with apparently normal hair; but once it enters the first resting period the hair falls out, and the entire growth process shuts down. In order for hair to grow, certain cells must stay in close contact with each other to transmit and receive signals necessary to keep the hair growth cycle functioning. With this condition the cellular communication gets disconnected, deactivating the hair growth cycle.

Loose Anagen Syndrome

This type of hair loss is most typical in small children with sparse fine hair that can easily be pulled out. It mostly affects girls with light hair. The hair usually does not grow past the nape of the neck. Under a microscope the hairs appear to lack an inner and outer root sheath and have a ruffled cuticle.

Triangular Alopecia

This is a pattern of hair loss that occurs in the temporal area on one or both sides and is usually in a triangular shape. The absence of hair in this area is present at birth or just after. It is permanent and irreversible but is not progressive. The shape and size of the bald area remains the same throughout lifetime.

Pili Torti

This condition can be congenital or acquired. It is most common in girls who have thin blonde hair. There is a rigid twisting of the hair fibers which leads to fractures in the cuticle and internal cortex layer of the hair shaft. The hair is dry and brittle and may stand out from the scalp. It breaks off at varying lengths.

Monilethrix

This is a rare condition that begins in infancy. Although the infant is born with what appears to be normal vellus hair, it is soon replaced with dry, brittle hair that has a beaded appearance. The hair often breaks off even with the scalp and seldom grows longer than 2.5 cm.

Uncombable Hair Syndrome

Children with this syndrome usually have silvery blonde glass-like hair that is unruly and won't lie flat. It is difficult or impossible to comb. Because of its appearance it is also called "spun-glass hair." The hair stands away from the scalp in a disorderly fashion. Microscopic evaluation reveals a triangular (or kidney bean) shaped hair shaft with longitudinal grooving. Spontaneous improvement is often seen in later in adolescence.

The following types of hair loss are common in children aged four and older.

Ringworm

Contrary to its name ringworm does not come from a worm but is caused by a type of fungus called dermatophyte. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through other people or animals. It is mostly seen on children between 4 and 11 years old. It usually begins as a small pimple that becomes larger, leaving scaly patches of baldness with an outline shaped like a ring. The hair often becomes brittle and breaks off very close to the scalp causing what is referred to as "black dot alopecia." Ringworm is also referred to as tinea capitis.

Alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder which causes the hair to fall out in patches with well defined margins. The onset of alopecia areata is most common in children between four and seven years old but it can strike anybody at anytime. Alopecia areata can progress to alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis affecting total scalp and body hair.

Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia occurs from sustained tension on the scalp due to tightly pulled hairstyles. Prolonged traction causes hair to loosen from its follicular roots. Cheerleaders, dancers and other children who routinely wear these types of hairstyles are at risk. Also at risk are those who wear hair extensions-which are becoming consistently more popular. Prolonged persistent traction can cause permanent hair loss.

Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania can be translated from Greek to mean a "manic desire to pluck out one's own hair." It is an impulse control disorder that often starts in childhood. A person with this disorder will feel an overwhelming urge to pull out his or her hair. This urge causes an extreme amount of tension which continues to build until the hair is pulled.

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium, also known as diffuse hair loss causes more hair than usual to retreat into the resting phase. This can be a reaction to any disturbance in the body as hair is very sensitive to changes. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and easily corrected once the problem is identified and addressed. Any type of illness, surgery or trauma can cause temporary diffuse hair loss.

Medications

Any medication can cause hair loss, even if it is not listed as a symptom. Psychopharmaceutical medications which are becoming more commonly prescribed to adolescents are known to cause hair loss in some people. Acne medications derived from vitamin A can cause hair loss. Some anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory medicines list hair loss as a side effect. Any hormonal medication such as birth control pills or steroids can cause hair loss.

Bacterial Infections

Certain bacteria and other microorganism can infect the scalp causing inflammation and hair loss. Hair loss from scalp infections may be temporary or permanent depending on the degree of damage.

Eating Disorders

Hair loss can be a symptom of any eating disorder such as anorexia nervous or bulimia.

Puberty

Hair loss often occurs during times of hormonal changes. Some hair loss may occur during puberty.

Immunizations

There have been reports of hair loss as an adverse side effect of vaccinations, mostly associated with the hepatitis B vaccine and mostly affecting females.

If you enjoyed this article and would like more information on the topic, Please visit VZ BOTANICALS Melanie Vonzabuesnig is the author of Hair Loss in Women...Getting to the Root of the Problem and Aroma Hair...Aromatherapy Formulas for Healthy Hair.

Melanie Vonzabuesnig has researched every aspect of female hair loss in order to help other women experiencing hair loss. She used aromatherapy for her own hair loss.

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Children's Hair Loss Problems

By Danny Grant

Alopecia areata is the group name for the disease and within that group other names are used to describe the extent of the loss, yet it is the same underlying problem: The immune system that has attacked the hair follicle.

Alopecia areata need not just develop on the scalp. It can start off in the eyebrows for example or eye lashes.

What can a parent do?

Parents often try to look for what triggered the problem, where in reality no one actually knows and the treatment options remain the same. The usual starting place is taking the child to a doctor to establish what is wrong. In most cases this is done just by looking at the pattern of hair loss. A punch biopsy in the region of loss is the only fool-proof method of confirming a definite diagnosis. Parents and doctors alike usually avoid putting a child through this because it is upsetting to the child.

Doctors usually refer the child to a dermatologist and this is where we often see a lot of anxiety. Most dermatologists can not be seen immediately and often the parent will see the problem get worse while they await the appointment.

A high percentage of children's hair loss cases get better on their own without treatment. However because some progress through to a stage where all scalp and facial is lost permanently, parents quite rightly are rather anxious. A dermatologist will not be able to predict the outcome of the child's alopecia.

Treatment

The most common treatment we see for alopecia areata is that of suppressing the immune system with topical steroid creams or injections. As steroids are known to cause some side effects and are not normally safe to use for long periods of time, many doctors will often avoid using them to see if the problem clears up on its own.

To the parent, this adds to their anxiety: In many cases it has taken many weeks to get to see a dermatologist only to be told that there will be no treatment available at that point. Other parents are prescribed steroids, but when they read the list of side effects they are then too nervous to start using them.

Where to turn to for support

That is why we find so many parents turning to the internet for support and advice. It is much easier to come to terms with the disease if you know other parents have been through the emotions you are experiencing and you can learn from their experience in beating the hair loss.

An example of this is that when hair does begin to regrow, it is usually very fine and without pigmentation. Any mother that has seen a child recover from alopecia areata knows that this baby fine hair is actually a very good sign: It may be of limited value cosmetically, however it means that the immune system has stopped attacking the keratinocytes (building blocks of the hair) and it will just be a matter of time for the melanocytes (these are like little colour factories ) to recover from the immune assault.

However as around only 1% of the hair is actually comprised of melanin (coloured portion) it means that you are 99% on the way to recovering from the problem.

Similarly when hair is lost from the entire scalp ( alopecia totalis ) you usually see a recovery on the very top of the scalp first and the sides and nape of the neck often take a little longer. It follows that knowing this and being able to see pictures of similar recovery patterns helps to put ones mind at rest. Knowing what to expect and that you are on track that what really matters the most.

The final piece that it is useful to know, is that often a patch will start to regrow and other new ones form or new ones form before all the patches recover. This can happen if the child is being treated or not. It is very easy to panic if you see the problem appearing to get worse and jump to another treatment option rather than hold steadfast.

20 years ago we started to research everything we could on alopecia areata. There reason: we were losing our own hair and hated it. Having solved our own problems, we started to help others and soon the media focused on the work that we were doing to help childrens hair loss. Our website grew out of that work and now acts as a resource centre for those with different forms of hair loss.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danny_Grant

How to Prevent Hair Loss in Children

By Eric Tokar

Millions of men and women in the United States suffer from hair loss, some excessive. Although it does not cause pain, can be a devastating condition to have. Worse yet, if you are a parent, you might fear that your child will suffer the same fate. In fact, you may start to panic if you notice that your child is losing a few strands of hair. A few strands of hair is nothing to panic about. In fact it is quite normal, but is there anything that you can do to prevent your child from losing their hair?

There are many different reasons for hair loss. According to FamilyDoctor.org, common causes in children include hormone imbalances, ringworm of the scalp, alopecia areata, trichotillomania, and cancer treatments. Alopecia areata is when the body's immune system attacks hair follicles. This condition is known to be hereditary, meaning there is nothing you can do, but, luckily, most kids grow their hair back. Trichotillomania is the medical name for the pulling of hair. You might be surprised to hear that some kids feel the uncontrollable urge to pull their hair when stressed. With stress management, this condition can be treated. 

Although the above mentioned causes are a few of the most common medical causes of hair loss in kids, there are other culprits. These are very easy to control and avoid. Hair will fall out when it is damaged beyond repair. That is why children and teenagers should avoid harsh chemicals, such as hair dye. The chemicals used to perm and straighten hairs can cause harm too. Avoiding harsh chemicals may not be a problem for your six-year-old, but it will be another story for your fashion conscious sixteen-year-old.

Other ways that you as a parent can help prevent your child from hair loss is by being careful when styling their hair. For teenagers, encourage them to practice hair-friendly styles. Hair follicles are sensitive. With too much pulling and tugging, they will come out. That is why it is important to brush the hair slowly and softly. Don't discourage your daughter from wearing ponytails, but know they can cause temporary hair loss. Your daughter's hair may get tangled in with the holder. When she goes to pull it out, hair will come with it.

As you can see, there are ways to prevent hair loss in children. If a medical condition is the cause, professional treatment should be sought. Most importantly, remember that hair loss in children is almost always temporary. Don't panic if your child loses small amount of hair. They aren't necessarily destined to have the same fate as you. It will likely grow back.

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