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How Far Away Is a Cure For Baldness?
by April Maguire
According to recent numbers, roughly 70% of men and 40% of women suffer from some degree of hair loss. Given the prevalence of this problem, it’s no surprise that scientists have been working for years to develop a surefire cure, but so far all we have are imperfect, stopgap solutions. So how close are we to having a viable cure for baldness?
What Causes Hair Loss?
Each hair on your head spends about four years growing out of a follicle. Once a hair's life cycle is complete, the follicle shuts down for a few months. Then the existing hair is shed and a new one begins to grow in its place. Generally, hair loss occurs when a follicle shuts down permanently, which can happen when the immune system mistakenly attacks the follicle, resulting in alopecia areata, or when the body's androgen level is too high, leading to male- or female-pattern baldness.
A Stem Cell Cure
The best hair loss cure on the horizon revolves around using stem cell therapy. Basically, stem cells are nascent human cells capable of becoming any type of cell within the human body. In the past, stem cells have been discussed as a possible means for regenerating all kinds of body tissue, such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. If stem cells can be used to grow other body parts, then why can't they be used to regrow hair?
Currently, there are several studies underway examining this line of research. Although early results have been positive, the science is still years away from being implemented. So what can people suffering from hair loss do in the meantime?
Today's Hair Loss Solutions
Even though a permanent cure for hair loss is still only theoretical, there are plenty of products and services already on the market that can help to stem the tide of baldness. For over-the-counter help, Rogaine and Propecia are safe, effective solutions. Both products have been proven to stop hair loss, and in some cases they've even been known to spur the growth of new hair.
For a more drastic solution, some people turn to hair transplantation. During this procedure, healthy follicles from the head or other parts of the body are implanted into bald patches on the head. In years past, hair transplantation could sometimes result in a patchy, unnatural-looking head of hair, but the procedure has become much more effective as of late.
While none of these options is a perfect solution, they can help while scientists develop a permanent hair loss treatment. If you're interested in exploring your hair loss treatment options, then be sure to talk to your doctor about what's right for you.
If you or someone you know would like more information about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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