Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, but when it becomes excessive, it can cause distress and anxiety. Hair experts known as trichologists are trained to understand the scalp and hair, diagnosing problems and offering solutions to manage shedding effectively. The Best Trichologists in Dubai follow a comprehensive, science-based, and individualized approach to handle hair shedding by focusing on underlying causes, tailored treatments, and long-term scalp health strategies.
Understanding Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss
Before taking any action, top trichologists differentiate between hair shedding and hair loss. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different phenomena:
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Hair shedding is a normal part of the hair’s life cycle. On average, a person sheds 50 to 100 hairs a day as strands enter the telogen (resting) phase.
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Hair loss, or alopecia, indicates that hair is not growing back properly, often pointing to a disruption in the hair cycle or follicle damage.
In-Depth Scalp and Hair Analysis
Top trichologists begin with a comprehensive scalp examination using various diagnostic tools, such as:
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Trichoscopy: A digital microscope that magnifies the scalp and hair shaft, allowing the trichologist to view follicular density, miniaturization, and scalp health.
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Pull test: Helps measure active shedding. By gently tugging a small section of hair, the number of strands released gives insight into the severity of the issue.
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Wash test: Tracks the number of hairs shed during washing to help estimate overall loss.
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Photographic records: High-resolution photos taken over time track changes and improvements.
Root Cause Identification
Hair shedding can be triggered by numerous factors. The best trichologists perform a detailed medical and lifestyle history to uncover root causes. This includes examining:
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Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin D, biotin, or protein can impair hair health.
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Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and post-pregnancy changes can all trigger excessive shedding.
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Stress and emotional trauma: Psychological stress is a leading cause of telogen effluvium (a temporary shedding condition).
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Medication side effects: Some drugs, like antidepressants or blood thinners, may impact the hair cycle.
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Recent illnesses or surgeries: The body may shift resources away from hair production during recovery periods.
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Hair care habits: Overuse of heat, chemicals, or tight hairstyles can lead to shedding through physical damage.
Addressing Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium (TE) is one of the most common causes of hair shedding and is characterized by sudden, diffuse hair loss. It occurs when a large number of hairs prematurely enter the telogen phase due to shock or stress.
Best practices by trichologists to handle TE include:
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Identifying and removing the trigger: Whether it’s emotional stress, illness, or nutritional deficiency, managing the source allows hair to return to its normal growth pattern.
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Nutritional support: Recommending iron-rich foods, B-complex vitamins, and amino acids to nourish follicles.
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Topical treatments: Mild anti-inflammatory agents like caffeine lotions or peptide serums to support scalp health.
Promoting a Healthy Hair Growth Environment
Managing shedding involves not just stopping hair fall but also stimulating regrowth. This is where top trichologists shine. They built a program to optimize scalp health and support the anagen (growth) phase.
Some common strategies include:
Scalp Exfoliation and Detox
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Removes dead skin cells and buildup that can block follicles.
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Encourages better blood circulation to nourish roots.
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Trichologists may use salicylic acid-based products, gentle scrubs, or professional steam therapy.
Laser Therapy
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Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is FDA-approved and used to stimulate follicles.
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Trichologists often recommend it for chronic shedding or recovery from TE.
Microneedling
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This involves tiny needles creating micro-injuries on the scalp, boosting collagen and growth factor release.
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Often paired with growth serums to enhance penetration and efficacy.
Scalp Massage Techniques
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Stimulates blood flow and relaxes tension in the scalp muscles.
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Some trichologists teach clients how to self-massage for 5–10 minutes a day.
Nutritional & Lifestyle Modifications
Hair is a non-essential tissue, meaning the body deprioritizes it during periods of nutritional deficiency or chronic stress. The best trichologists integrate holistic adjustments:
Nutrition:
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Recommending a balanced diet rich in omega-3s, lean proteins, and antioxidant-packed vegetables.
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Suggesting supplements where appropriate, especially iron (ferritin levels are key), zinc, and vitamin D.
Stress Management:
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Encouraging mindfulness, yoga, or therapy for clients undergoing chronic stress.
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Cortisol management directly affects hair shedding severity.
Sleep & Hydration:
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Adequate sleep boosts repair mechanisms.
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Proper hydration ensures nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Final Thoughts
Hair shedding can be alarming, but with the right expert guidance, it’s a manageable condition. The best trichologists approach it through a methodical process: thorough assessment, identifying the cause, personalized treatment, and holistic health strategies. Whether the issue is due to temporary stress, a nutritional deficiency, or hormonal shifts, these specialists know how to bring the hair back into harmony.
