Women's Hair Loss

Hair Loss in Women

Hair Loss in Women

Why do Women lose their hair?

Women can lose hair for many reasons. In the case of pregnancy, changes in hormone levels can produce hair loss. Stress and anxiety can also cause hair follicles to cease production. In some cases, a vitamin deficiency can cause hair loss. Certain medications can lead to hair falling out, too. But in all the aforementioned cases, the hair loss is only temporary for most people. Once the condition causing the hair loss stops, whether naturally or through intervention; the hair follicles will "rejuvinate" and begin producing hair once again.

There are two conditions in which hair loss is irreversible. The first is from the condition known as Alopecia Universalis. Very few people are afflicted with Alopecia Universalis, but those who are facing the devastating effects of this condition are faced with a situation in which all hair production ceases on their body and they actually produce no hair at all, from their head to their toes. The condition is believed to be caused by a virus and there is no known "cure" for it.

The overwhelming majority of women suffer from what is known as androgenic hair loss. This is caused by hormonal changes. It was mentioned previously that pregnant women can experience hair loss due to changes in hormone levels. With androgenic hair loss, the principle is the same but the cause is different.

Both men and women have hormones related to the opposite sex. Men have levels of estrogen in their body, just as women have levels of testosterone. In women, the cause of what is known as female pattern baldness is the testosterone hormone. Women with hair loss do not have abnormal levels of testosterone in their body. These women are just unable to "process” testosterone properly.

There is much testosterone found in a person's scalp. If the hormone does not break down properly as it ages and is ready to be disposed of as waste, a by-product formed with the enzyme alpha-5 reductase known as Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) exists

When too much DHT accumulates in the scalp, hair follicles are affected. They begin to atrophy. The hair being produced miniaturizes, becomes weaker in structure, and lighter in color. Finally, the hair follicle enters a permanent dormant state and no hair is produced at all. In most cases, there is no way to induce the hair follicle to produce normal, healthy hair again. The follicle is essentially dead.

What is Androgenetic Alopecia?

Female Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia) is an emotionally devastating condition. Unfortunately, 50% of women will experience some degree of hair loss by the age of 60.

The most common form of hair loss in women (Androgenetic Alopecia also known as Female Pattern Hair Loss) occurs in women that are genetically predisposed.

Like any medical condition, early detection is the best practice for prevention.

Unlike Male Pattern Hair Loss, "pattern distribution" is not typical for most women with Androgenetic Alopecia. In most cases, for women thinning occurs diffusely without a pattern. Often the frontal hair line is left intact, but behind this the scalp becomes visible in the midline. Progressive thinning over time may extend back to the crown area, and often impacts areas on the sides and back of the head, leaving the scalp covered with diffusely thinning hair, but usually no bare areas. Figure illustrates hair loss in women due to Female Pattern Hair Loss (as measured by the Ludwig Scale).

Because of this lack of a defined pattern one cannot distinguish Female Pattern Hair Loss from other causes of hair loss just by looking at it.

It is important to exclude other causes of hair thinning which can mimic Androgenetic Alopecia in women.

Most women will come to their diagnosis after excluding medically treatable causes such as anemia, thyroid disease, fatty acid deficiency, medication side effects, heavy metal exposure (lead, arsenic, mercury) just to name a few. There are also dermatologic conditions that can look like Androgenetic Alopecia, but require different treatment approaches, so an accurate diagnosis is important.

Proper early prediction and diagnosis of female hair loss is paramount to saving your hair.

                                                                               

Men's Hair Loss

Hair Loss in Men

    Hair Loss in Men

About Men’s Hair Loss

Like many male hair loss clients, yours probably began in early adulthood. Although your family and close friends probably told you it didn't matter, you really hated losing your hair. After all, it makes you look and feel much older before your time.

Today’s world is youth oriented and competition is tough in both our business and personal lives. A young virile appearance is very important. It gives a person the confidence to get out there and win. There's no doubt that hard work and a good personality are keys to success. However, the hard truth is if you look older than your years, you're going to lose that added edge. It's hard to admit, but looking good can be almost as important as being good!

For many men, the decision to do something about their hair loss is a major psychological step. Often the stumbling block comes in deciding which hair restoration method is best for each individual's personal lifestyle.

By using today’s contemporary and most sophisticated techniques there are no risks of looking unnatural or artificial. Still, of course, you can choose to do nothing at all and continue losing more hair. It's your own, very personal decision, but it's important to remember that your hair loss could be affecting your self-confidence and general outlook on life.

Today is the day you can stop being a victim of hair loss. Our services offer you an effective way to return to your natural good looks, without the fear of "instant hair". You have discovered a hair restoration that will put an end to you looking less than your best, and the results will give you the self-confidence of looking and feeling younger and more active. Call us today 210-858-8554!

What is Androgenetic Alopecia?

Male Pattern Hair Loss (Anderogenetic Alopecia) is an emotionally devastating condition. Unfortunately, 50% of men will experience some degree of hair loss by the age of 50.

Male pattern baldness is the number one cause of alopecia, or hair loss, in men. As suggested by its more technical name, Androgenetic Alopecia, the condition results from certain hormones Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which are collectively known as androgens, and genes that influence how hair responds to androgens. Most men are genetically predisposed to developing pattern hair loss because they inherit genes for the trait. This form of hair loss typically occurs between the ages of 20 and 45 in the majority of patients, but can occur at a very young age and may continue throughout one’s life. Male pattern baldness generally starts with a receding hairline and a thinning crown, and can range from partial loss to a horseshoe-shaped area of hair remaining only at the sides and back of the head.

(See Hamilton-Norwood Scale)

 

If hair loss is influenced by natural hormones, you may be wondering why some people are more inclined toward male pattern baldness than others. Both men and women produce androgens, and the hormone testosterone is actually a precursor to the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Testosterone is converted to DHT by an enzyme known as Alpha-5 reductase, in the hair follicles, adrenal glands, and the male prostate and testes. In addition to the prostate and testes’ role in increasing DHT levels, men also have a greater number of androgen receptors in their dermal papillae than women. These factors combine to make this form of hair loss more common and more severe among men. The reason the amount of hair loss is not equal among men is because those with the genetic predisposition for male pattern baldness have a greater number of androgen receptors for DHT to contact.

Proper early prediction and diagnosis of Men's Hair Loss and Men's Hair Restoration is key to saving your hair.

                                                                               

Multi-Therapy Approach

Multi-Therapy Approach

  Multi-Therapy Approach
Hair restoration includes various methods of treatment for hair loss, including non-surgical (which we practice here at Trinity Lace Wigs Restoration Studio).     Since hair loss is individual we apply individual treatment services for our clientele.

We MAXIMIZE RESULTS with our unique treatment programs which are designed to synergistically combine our laser services with products (including oral and topical) to yield the best possible results for each individual.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Frequently Asked Questions

Laser Hair Therapy FAQ

 Laser Hair Treatment Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does hair fall out?

A: One reason is because of Dihydrotestosterone, otherwise known as DHT.   DHT causes hair follicles to stop producing the thick, healthy hair we once had. Follicles become more clogged with unhealthy debris and nutrient clogging cellular waste products. Hair falls out and fails to grow back naturally. If left untreated, the follicles will close completely, but if caught in enough time, the process can be reversed.

Q: How does the laser program work?

A: The Laser Hair Program involves a select treatment process specific to your condition to take control of your hair loss.

Q: Are there any side effects?

 A: No. There are no short or long term side effects with the Laser Hair Therapy Class IIIA laser unit; it is FDA approved for cosmetic use, as is the topical activator solution.

Q: Does it hurt?

A: No. There is no pain associated with any aspect of the program. The laser is a Low Level Diode Laser, without a thermal component. A tingling sensation of the scalp may be noticed during use due to an increase in blood and nutrient flow in the scalp and hair follicles. 

Q: How long has this treatment been on the market?

A: This program was introduced to the United States about five years ago; however, individuals in Europe have been using low level lasers for over a decade.

Q: How is the program administered?

A: A certified technician specialized in Trichology (the study of the hair and scalp) will follow your progress throughout the course of the program, making any necessary changes and/or recommendations that aretailored to fit your individual needs.

Q: How soon will I begin to see results?

A: In two to four months you will begin to see a noticeable improvement. Each person's response varies on an individual basis, depending on their personal hair loss history.

Q: Will it work for me?

A: LLLT works for many users. It may work for you as well. A complete medical history, along with an in-depth consultation, will help determine if you are a good candidate.

Q: How can I find out if I am a good candidate?

A: Call 1-210-858-8554 today. Space is limited, in that the center can only service a set number of clients per year. Call the center to learn more.

Q: What is the difference between hot and cold lasers?

A: Quite simply, hot lasers and high energy lasers have a thermal component, while cold lasers do not, and therefore, cannot burn, cut or vaporize tissue.

Q: What separates one hair laser from another?

A: Just as location, location, location is critical when investing in a home; quality, quality, quality is critical when investing in a laser hair therapy device. The quality of the components that go into the device will determine the quality of the results that come out. This is particularly true when applied to the laser diodes that distribute energy to the tissues of the scalp. Output power should be consistent and the nanometer (wavelength) of the laser diodes must be accurate and precisely targeted in order to stimulate maximum cellular activity.

Q: Does it make a difference whether a laser diode has a glass or a plastic lens?

A: Good question, and yes it does. Glass provides a more effective prism through which laser light can be transmitted. Plastic does not transmit as well or last longer.

Q: Are the smaller, hand-held lasers effective?

A: Yes. The technology, though on a smaller scale, has earned a place of respect in any treatment program. Once again though, you should invest in quality.

Q: What is the future of Laser Hair Therapy?

A: As bright as a laser light itself. Laser hair therapy will continue to offer a viable, effective therapeutic alternative to hair loss. 

Nature's Sunshine

Nature's Sunshine Products

Nature’s Sunshine is the highest quality herbal, vitamin and nutritional supplements worldwide.
If your body is deficient in one or more nutrients, you may experience hair loss or scalp disorders. To determine which body system needs nutritional support, click on Nature Sunshine link below, when it opens to the home page, click on the Brilliant Body and take the Brilliant Body assessment (it’s free!!!). It will indicate which supplements your body is deficient. Order these supplements and take for them for 90 days. Retake the assessment in 90 days and repeat.

Nature's Sunshine Products (NSP) are the world's finest supplements:

•           NSP Scientists have 600+ tests at their disposal to insure the purity, potency and safety of our products

•           Unbeatable selection with 600+ nutritional products to choose from (including hundreds of unique formulas.  Not a better selection of natural health products anywhere!

• Membership has benefits - saves up to 45% off retail.  Get a free one-year membership with a simple order of $40 worth of product (members pay direct cost, savings of 30-45% off suggested retail prices).

Have a question? Contact Stephanie Anderson, NSP Independent Distributor  or call (210) 858-8554.

     

What do you have to lose... but more hair???

Visit Nature's Sunshine website for a health assessment

Hair Restoration

Hair Restoration

 What is Hair Restoration?

Hair restoration includes the medical and surgical treatment of various forms of hair loss, including non-surgical (which we practice here at Trinity Lace Wigs Restoration Studio). The most common cause of hair loss is Androgentic Alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness.

Androgenic alopecia (also known as androgenetic alopecia, alopecia androgenetica, male pattern baldness) is hair loss that occurs due to an underlying susceptibility of hair follicles to androgenic miniaturization. It is the most common cause of hair loss and will affect up to 70% of men and 40% of women at some point in their lifetime. Men typically present with hairline recession at the temples and vertex balding while women normally diffusely thin over the top of their scalps^. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role, and many etiologies remain unknown.

Classic androgenic hair loss in males begins above the temples and vertex, or calvaria, of the scalp. As it progresses, a rim of hair at the sides and rear of the head remains. This has been referred to as a 'Hippocratic wreath', and rarely progresses to complete baldness. The Hamilton-Norwood scale has been developed to grade androgenic alopecia in males.

Female androgenic alopecia has been colloquially referred to as 'female pattern baldness', although its characteristics can occur in males as well. It more often causes diffuse thinning without hairline recession, and like its male counterpart rarely leads to total hair loss. The Ludwig scale grades severity of androgenic alopecia in females.

Medical Insurance Claims/Reimbursements

TrinityLacewigs.Com (TLC) premium quality hair replacement units are designed to meet the specific needs of anyone suffering from hair loss. We provide full cranial prosthesis (full lace units) for those suffering from permanent hair loss due to a medical condition: chemotherapy, alopecia or many other medical conditions.
 

Heath Insurance Coverage:  Many insurance companies will cover between 80-100% of the cost for your full cranial prosthesis. However, if you request coverage for a “wig”, there are good chances that your claim will be denied. So please make sure you request a "full cranial prosthesis".
 

Disclaimer:  TrinityLacewigs.Com does not claim to be a Medical or Health Care Provider. Neither, do we process medical or insurance claims, or accept prescriptions. We have researched and gathered information that we hope to be useful to you in obtaining possible reimbursement from your medical insurance carrier. For more detailed information, please contact us at: customercare@trinitylacewigs.com or call 210-858-8554.
Your full cranial prosthesis may also be a tax deductible medical expense.


Helpful Information: 

Applying for a Grant or Voucher to Cover your Full Cranial Prosthesis (full lace wigs): American Cancer Society has a program available to those who qualify to assist you in purchasing a wig. If your insurance does not cover the full cost of your wig or only covers partial cost of your wig, you may quality for an allotment through the American Cancer Society.

The American Cancer Society will issue you a voucher up to $75 to help cover the cost of your wig. You must meet certain financial guidelines. You MUST apply for this voucher BEFORE you purchase a wig. It will not be awarded for purchases made in advance. To inquire about getting financial assistance for your wig purchase, you can contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345. Ask to speak to a representative in regards to: Financial Assistance for a Wig Purchase.
 

The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF): NAAF has established the Ascot Fund. This special pre-purchase program provides financial assistance toward the purchase of a hairpiece to individuals who have alopecia areata and are struggling financially. To find out if you qualify, please contact them at:

National Alopecia Areata Foundation
14 Mitchell Blvd. San Rafael, CA 94903

OR

PO Box 150760
San Rafael, CA 94915-0760
Phone: 415-472-3780 Fax: 415-472-5343
E-mail: info@naaf.org Web site: http://www.naaf.org/

Guidelines for Filing Initial Insurance Claims: 

1. Most insurance policies cover "Prescribed Cranial Prosthesis" but do not cover wigs.
2. The Insurance C.P.T code most commonly used is CPT-ORN-1.
3. Get a letter and/or prescription from your doctor.
4. Make sure that the letter or prescription is for "Prescribed Cranial Prosthesis"
5. It should not say wig-if it does, have it redone, otherwise your claim will most likely be refused.
6. Have a receipt from the person performing the service (from whom you purchase the Cranial Prosthesis). Make sure it says "Prescribed Cranial Prosthesis."
7. Have the person who performed the service signoff on your claim; i.e. the Physician’s "Dr.’s" portion of your claim form.

Waiting for your claim to be processed - prepare yourself for having your claim denied:

1. Know your rights as the insured party.
2. Obtain a copy of your FULL contract with your carrier (most of us only have a "Summary of Benefits" provided by the employer).
3. Read and know your contract.
   A . Pay attention to the "exclusions" Wigs are excluded for cosmetics reasons.
   B.  Pay special attention to Prosthesis coverage. Most policies do not spell out exclusions under Prosthesis, and this is how you are likely to have your claim accepted.
    

Submitting your appeal - (after denial of claim as not a covered benefit)   

1. Write asking for a review by the Medical Review Board.
2. Attach copy of original claims.
3. In your letter, inform them of the difference between a wig and Prosthesis. (A wig is a fashion item and not a necessity. Prosthesis is a necessity comparable to plastic surgery for a burn victim).
4. Ask for a written reply. (Companies try to avoid putting anything in writing).
5. Address your letter to a supervisor in the Claim Department.

Please contact us at 210-858-8554 if you have any questions.