Types of Hair Loss or Alopecia:
Androgenetic Alopecia
This hereditary type of hair loss may occur in both men and women. It is associated with shrinkage of the hair follicles and shortening of the hair follicle’s active growth phase (anagen phase). In men, androgenetic alopecia is characterized by hair loss on the crown and temples. In women, the frontal hairline is preserved, but there is diffuse thinning of the crown. Hair loss in androgenetic alopecia is not inevitable. Dr. Tareen provides cutting-edge treatments with oral and topical medications and laser treatments.
Alopecia Areata
This is spontaneous hair loss, typically in circular patches. It most commonly occurs on the scalp and beard but may occur anywhere. It is a benign condition, and typically, the hair re-grows on its own over time. Alopecia areata is caused by the immune system attacking the hair follicles. Stress and other traumatic events can often bring this on. Dr. Tareen may treat alopecia areata with small cortisone injections into the skin to suppress the overactive immune system locally and to promote hair re-growth.
Patient Testimonials
“As a 37-year-old retired NHL hockey player, I thought it was too late to look into hair loss treatments. I have a family history of hair loss on both sides of my family and thought it was my fate to lose all of my hair. My wife told me to check out hair loss treatment options, and I am so glad I did with Tareen Dermatology. I was seen by medical to deduce what type of hair loss I was suffering from and immediately started on topical medication and PRP injections. After a few months of treatment, I noticed new baby hairs growing. After a year of treatment, I can say that my hair is continuing to regrow and I am so happy and more confident. When I was playing hockey, my head was always covered with a helmet and I never prioritized taking care of my scalp and hair. Now my scalp and hair health is a huge priority for me knowing I have seen such great results.” – Casey
FAQS
More information on female pattern hair loss:
Some women may feel ashamed or embarrassed by hair loss – Dr. Tareen would like you to know that she has personally suffered from androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss) since her early 20s. Female pattern hair loss can occur in isolation or may be attributed to hormonal imbalances. Tareen Dermatology will provide a comprehensive and compassionate analysis and will provide you with solutions to help prevent and re-grow hair! Female hair loss is often due to a hormone known as DHT. This hormone miniaturizes hair follicles, slowly shrinking. This results in shorter and finer hair until the hair growth stops completely.
Some options for female pattern hair loss include biotin, Viviscal, scalp massage, and the prescription medications spironolactone, finasteride, and dutasteride. In our office, we will personalize a regimen for you to restore your hair to its best.
Information on some of the medications offered:
1. Biotin: this is an over-the-counter B vitamin. It is water soluble (meaning that it DOES NOT) concentrate in your fat cells. It is very safe with minimal side effects.
2. Viviscal: This over-the-counter supplement has been shown to strengthen and regrow hair. Dr. Tareen herself takes Viviscal and thoroughly believes in it. A lower-strength Viviscal is available at drugstores, and a professional grade Viviscal is only available through hair loss experts such as Tareen Dermatology in Minnesota.
3. Minoxidil/ Rogaine: These topical medications prolong the hair growth cycle. They are safe to use with minimal side effects. However, once started, if these medications are stopped, the new hair growth will be shed. Dr. Tareen has used these medications for over ten years with fantastic results!
4. Spironolactone: this is an oral medication that was initially used for blood pressure management. Dermatologists use this medication off-label to help women with hormonal acne and hormonal hair loss. Dr. Tareen took this medication for over five years with excellent results. This medication is not to be used if planning pregnancy or pregnancy as it interferes with hormones (this is why Dr. Tareen stopped it). Spironolactone has side effects, so it should be carefully discussed with your doctor. In some rat studies, the incidence of breast cancer was higher in the rats treated with spironolactone. Dr. Tareen and her colleagues will determine if spironolactone is right for you.
5. Finasteride/ Dutasteride: These medications inhibit an enzyme that breaks down testosterone into DHT (the main culprit behind female pattern thinning). An easy DNA test called HairDx can determine whether these medications suit you. You may see more hair shedding with this medication before hair regrowth occurs. Typically, it takes six months to 1 year to see the regrowth of hair. Women of childbearing age should avoid these therapies as they harm fetal growth. Unfortunately, as these are used off-label, insurance typically does not cover these medications.
