Hair loss is defined by multiple factors from genetics to environment, stress to bad diet. Holistic approach takes all of this into account: our environments, our habits, our dietary choices, and all of the different treatments we can undergo, from diet to injections to surgeries. It combines all of these to slow down hair loss and to regain hair and self-confidence. 5 ‘S’ approach includes a graded approach to hair problems which includes Stress management, Supplements, Stimulators, Self- factors and Surgery.

STRESS MANAGEMENT

PROBLEM: Stress can be a major factor leading to hair loss and can be associated with these conditions

• Telogen effluvium – Stress can lead to losing hair even with simple washing or combing of hair in this condition as large numbers of hair follicles enter the resting phase.
• Trichotillomania – Stress can lead to irresistible urge to pull out hair from scalp leading to hair loss.
• Alopecia areata – Excessive stress can induce auto immune response which can damage hair follicles.

SOLUTION:

• DOs – Yoga, Meditation, Assertive, Hobby, Exercise, Positive attitude
• DON’Ts - Negative attitude, Aggressive, Addiction

SUPPLEMENTS

PROBLEM: Unbalanced diet or less nutritious diet can lead to hair loss.

• Multivitamins – A multivitamin does play a role in growth cycle of hair follicle. B-vitamins, zinc and at least 1,000 international units of vitamin D in a tablet daily can be helpful.
• Iron – Anaemia can lead to hair loss, so incorporating an iron supplement can help with hair problems.
• Biotin – Post lunch dose of 5 milligrams daily can help.
• Zinc – Post breakfast can improve hair health.

STIMULATORS

MINOXIDIL: in a foam or solution is an effective way to regrow hair on head but can lead to hair growth on on face due to field effect. Also pregnant woman or breastfeeding is a contraindication.
ROSEMARY OIL: In a study it has been found as effective as Minoxidil but without side effect of scalp itching. Leaving it in for at least 10 minutes before washing it out with shampoo can help improve hair health.
LOW LASER LIGHT THERAPY: when hair follicles absorb laser light at a certain level, it stimulates hair to grow. But there’s not enough evidence that any of these devices restore hair or prevent balding.
MESOTHERAPY: It uses a variety of substances in form of injections, including herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals, hormones, enzymes, and prescription medications. Because there’s no standard mixture or method, there’s variability to when the results show up.

SELF-FACTORS

Self-factors or growth factors like PRP has proven role in helping with hair loss. PRP contains high concentrations of over 20 growth factors that are actively secreted from the α-granules of platelets. PRP has been found to be effective for both age-related hair loss and alopecia areata. It’s also safe, inexpensive, and less invasive. A minimum of 3 sessions at 1-month intervals are recommended.

SURGERY

When there is large patch of baldness, it requires hair transplant surgery. Follicular unit transplantation (FUT) / strip surgery hair transplant, or follicular unit extraction (FUE). With the FUT method, hair follicles are taken from the back or sides of the head by removing a strip of skin and hair. With FUE, individual hair follicles are removed from the donor site with a small punch, one by one, and transplanted in the recipient area. The trend off late has been towards FUE but it is important to be well versed in FUT too. In some patients a combined approach can give great results. In conclusion, a holistic approach of non- surgical to surgical treatment options should be provided to the patient. A graded and customized approach works best for the patient dealing with hair problems.