Effective Treatments for Gray Hair and Hair Loss: Your Questions Answered

Treatment for gray hair and hair loss?

Hello Doctor, my wife and I are both 40 years old.
Over the past year, I've noticed an increasing number of white hairs (about several dozen), although I had some since high school.
I once saw a health program on television that suggested taking mulberry leaf powder combined with black sesame powder (the ground black sesame seeds sold in the market) to improve this condition.
I've been taking it for over six months, but it seems to have little effect.
I would like to know if consuming these supplements is truly beneficial? Currently, I take them once a day; is that not enough?
My second question is related to family genetics.
Over the past two years, I've noticed signs of thinning hair starting from my hairline.
I purchased Minoxidil 5% for maintenance and have been applying it for almost a year, but the results seem minimal (I think a few new hairs have grown).
Does this indicate that other hair follicles may have already died and are beyond recovery, which is why the regrowth is not significant?
I would appreciate your advice on these two questions.
Thank you!

Lin Sen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/03

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! For hair-related issues, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist.
The effectiveness of nutritional supplements varies from person to person, making it difficult to provide specific advice.
Please seek a dermatological diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible!

Reply Date: 2020/03/03

More Info

When it comes to addressing concerns about gray hair and hair loss, it's important to understand the underlying causes and the effectiveness of various treatments. Let's break down your questions and provide some insights based on current medical knowledge.

1. Effectiveness of Dietary Supplements for Gray Hair
You mentioned consuming mulberry leaf powder and black sesame powder in hopes of reversing or preventing gray hair. While these supplements are popular in some cultures and are believed to have health benefits, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness in reversing gray hair is limited. The graying of hair is primarily influenced by genetics, age, and the reduction of melanin production in hair follicles.
Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of your hair, and as we age, the melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin) gradually decrease in number and activity. While a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall hair health, there is no conclusive evidence that specific foods or supplements can reverse gray hair once it has occurred.
If you are considering continuing with these supplements, ensure you are consuming them in adequate amounts, but also be aware that results may vary, and it might take longer than six months to see any noticeable changes, if at all. Consulting with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist could provide personalized advice based on your dietary needs.

2. Concerns About Hair Loss and Minoxidil (Rogaine)
Regarding your use of Minoxidil (Rogaine) for hair loss, it’s important to understand that while this topical treatment can be effective for many individuals, results can vary significantly. Minoxidil works by stimulating hair follicles and increasing blood flow to the scalp, which can promote hair growth in some users. However, it is not a guaranteed solution for everyone, especially if hair follicles have already undergone significant damage or miniaturization due to genetic factors.

If you have been using Minoxidil for nearly a year and have only seen minimal results, it could indicate that some of your hair follicles may be too far gone to respond to treatment. The effectiveness of Minoxidil is often best when used in the early stages of hair loss, and it may not be as effective for advanced hair loss or baldness.

Additional Considerations
1. Genetic Factors: Since you mentioned a family history of hair loss, it’s likely that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in your situation. Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is hereditary and can lead to progressive hair loss.

2. Other Treatment Options: If Minoxidil is not yielding the desired results, you might want to discuss other treatment options with a dermatologist. Finasteride (Propecia) is another FDA-approved medication for male pattern baldness that works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.
3. Hair Restoration Procedures: For individuals with significant hair loss, hair transplant surgery may be an option worth considering. This involves relocating hair follicles from areas of the scalp with dense hair to balding areas.

4. Lifestyle Factors: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hair treatments can also contribute to better hair health.
5. Consultation with a Specialist: Given the complexity of hair loss and graying, consulting with a dermatologist or a trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp health) can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific condition.

In summary, while dietary supplements may not have a significant impact on gray hair, addressing hair loss may require a multifaceted approach, including topical treatments, oral medications, and possibly surgical options. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health needs.

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