A Holistic Approach to Hair Loss

A Holistic Approach to Hair Loss

Hair loss affects millions of people, and it can be a challenging experience for women and men of all ages. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) could be a viable option, especially for those experiencing hair loss due to emotional stress and nutrient deficiencies. According to TCM, the scalp and hair condition is a reflection of internal balance and overall health. If there is unexplained hair loss, there is imbalance or disharmony within the body. The primary focus of treating hair loss with Traditional Chinese Medicine is to correct imbalances or disharmonies within the body that can affect overall health. These imbalances differ significantly from one person to another. Therefore, individual evaluations of current physical and psychological health are necessary. 

The primary focus of treating hair loss with Traditional Chinese Medicine is to correct imbalances or disharmonies within the body that can affect overall health. These imbalances differ significantly from one person to another. Therefore, individual evaluations of current physical and psychological health are necessary. 

Hair loss affects millions of people, and it can be a challenging experience for women and men of all ages. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) could be a viable option, especially for those experiencing hair loss due to emotional stress and nutrient deficiencies. According to TCM, the scalp and hair condition is a reflection of internal balance and overall health. If there is unexplained hair loss, there is imbalance or disharmony within the body. The primary focus of treating hair loss with Traditional Chinese Medicine is to correct imbalances or disharmonies within the body that can affect overall health. These imbalances differ significantly from one person to another. Therefore, individual evaluations of current physical and psychological health are necessary. 

Acupuncture uses hair-thin, filiform needles inserted into specific acupuncture points to excite neurohumoral and endocrine system reactions and initiates recovery of sebaceous gland functioning, which is essential for hair health. The needles also cause an increase in circulation and blood flow to the scalp. The most effective acupuncture technique is Qi Xing, which enhances filiform acupuncture treatment to produce greater positive hair regrowth outcomes. Acupuncture for alopecia is most effective when used together with herbal treatment and scalp massage or stimulation.  

In addition to weekly acupuncture appointments, herbs, and massage, a diet high in protein and Biotin is equally essential. Hair is mainly composed of a tough protein called keratin and is anchored into the skin by hair follicles. Blood vessels nourish the hair follicles and carry hormones that are responsible for hair growth, so sufficient blood circulation to the scalp is critical. Emotional health can influence hair growth just as much as diet does. Therefore, emotions such as anger and fear may cause an increase in stress and anxiety, which ultimately cause hormone disruptions that can lead to hair loss. Acupuncture can be implemented to support the release of these unhealthy emotions, regulate hormones and the nervous system to restore health, and reverse the cycle of unnecessary hair loss. 

Hydrafacial Keravive is another option for hair growth that targets the scalp to create the optimal environment for the healthiest hair. It’s a three-step process that cleanses, nourishes, and hydrates the scalp. 

The cleansing process uses Hydrafacial’s Vortex Fusion technology to deeply cleanse and exfoliate the areas of hair loss while infusing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a lipophilic (attracted to oil) exfoliating acid that penetrates the oily hair follicle to push out excess sebum and sticky skin cells that weighs down hair. This helps reduce the appearance of oily hair and removes build-up to prepare the scalp for the second step.  

The second part of Keravive infuses a solution containing growth factors that mimic the body’s natural functions. Collagen loss and poor circulation are two significant factors that lead to hair loss. The goal is to increase collagen production, improve circulation, increase epidermal cell growth and promote the formation of new blood vessels by combining seven different growth factors infused into the areas of concern. 

The third step of Keravive comes in the form of a hair treatment that is used at home. The same growth factors are used in the Keravive hair spray to maintain and improve the results of the service. 

Both acupuncture and Keravive are non-invasive methods of promoting hair growth. The combination of both services will work synergistically to achieve the best results possible. The goal of each service is the same; however, the journey is different depending on individual needs. Whether a combination of the two or just one service is needed can be determined during a professional consultation. 

- Dr. Karen Williams & Alexander Scrivo