PODCAST: Hair Loss Expert Dr. Alan Bauman Chats Hair Transplant w/ Dr. Peter Attia
Renowned longevity physician, Peter Attia MD, a Stanford, Johns Hopkins and NIH-trained physician, interviews top hair restoration physician, Alan J Bauman MD, in his popular weekly podcast, “The Drive,” which focuses on maximizing lifespan, healthspan, and well-being, optimizing cognitive, physical and emotional health.
#43 – Alan Bauman, M.D.: The science of male and female hair restoration – how to protect, enhance, and restore the appearance and health of the hair and scalp
“When [a patient] looks in the mirror and sees that hairline growing back in and says, ‘I would never have thought I would see my hairline again. I never thought I’d cover that bald spot.’ I mean, that’s the exciting thing that keeps me going every day.” —Alan Bauman MD
In this episode, Alan Bauman, MD, ABHRS-certified hair transplantation surgeon, and hair restoration expert, discusses both male and female pattern hair loss, the science behind what drives it, and what that tells us about prevention and restoration. Having treated over 20,000 patients, Alan shares his invaluable insights into what works and what doesn’t in terms of the non-surgical treatment options from compounded prescriptions like 82M minoxidil, FinPlus finasteride, laser therapy, cell therapy, etc. We also go into great detail about the more invasive approaches like PRP, and of course, hair transplantation, a procedure which Alan has refined over the years into a proprietary method that seems to produce unbelievable results. Additionally, Alan provides tips for maintaining scalp health, which is vital for hair growth, as well as the importance of choosing a hair specialist who has the tools, expertise, and patience to develop a compassionate and encompassing approach to hair restoration.
We discuss:
Alan’s unique path, and how he became interested in hair transplantation [7:15];
The prevalence of hair loss, types of hair loss, and the different patterns in men vs. women [15:45];
The role of genetics in hair loss, and when does it start [19:00];
Female hair loss: the role of hormones, pregnancy-related hair loss, and what it means to have thinning and shedding [22:30];
Primary drivers of male hair loss, finasteride as a treatment, and the potential side effects [26:15];
Common treatments – Proscar, Propecia, Rogaine, and more – how they all came about and what you need to know [29:45];
Primary drivers of female hair loss, potential treatments, and the different types of hair follicles [33:15];
What are some of the unproven/snake oil methods of hair treatments being pushed to the public? [37:15];
Preventative steps to take if you’re worried about future hair loss [42:00];
Medications that may negatively affect hair quality [45:30];
The importance of seeing a hair specialist [47:15];
Impact of scalp health and inflammation on hair growth, how to pick and apply shampoo and conditioner, and how to avoid and treat hair breakage [50:15];
Treatment options – finasteride, minoxidil, laser caps – how they work and what you need to know [57:15];
PRP treatment: How it works, details of the procedure, and Alan’s proprietary protocol [1:11:45];
The hair transplant procedure [1:29:30];
Risks involved with a hair transplant procedure [1:44:00];
Is a donor hair susceptible to the forces of the implant site that caused the hair loss? Can a hair follicle grow anywhere on the body? [1:47:45];
Age appropriate procedures, how far the field has come, and why Alan loves his work [1:51:45]; and
More.
Who is Peter Attia, MD?
[From PetterAttiaMD.com]
Peter is the founder of Attia Medical, a medical practice with offices in San Diego and New York City, focusing on the applied science of longevity. The practice applies nutritional biochemistry, exercise physiology, sleep physiology, techniques to increase distress tolerance, lipidology, pharmacology, and four-system endocrinology to increase lifespan (delaying the onset of chronic disease), while simultaneously improving healthspan (quality of life).
Peter trained for five years at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in general surgery, where he was the recipient of several prestigious awards, including resident of the year, and the author of a comprehensive review of general surgery. He also spent two years at NIH as a surgical oncology fellow at the National Cancer Institute where his research focused on immune-based therapies for melanoma. He has since been mentored by some of the most experienced and innovative lipidologists, endocrinologists, gynecologists, sleep physiologists, and longevity scientists in the United States and Canada.
Peter earned his M.D. from Stanford University and holds a B.Sc. in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. He is licensed in California (A96452) and New York (281406-1).
According to the CDC, more than 99% of sexually active women between the ages of 15 and 44 have used at least one form of birth control. For a little more than 25% of these women, oral contraceptive pill is their method of choice, with 10% using an IUD.
Similar to any medication, birth control can cause unwanted side effects. Many women complain that hair thinning, shedding, receding, as well as other hair loss symptoms and changes in hair quality occur while taking the pill. Others may notice increased hair loss when stopping the pill. For some, hair loss from birth control is a temporary side effect that is not concerning, for others it becomes the “trigger” that reveals an underlying, unwanted, distressing tendency toward thinning/shedding hair, receding hairlines/temples, and-or other hair loss issues that is known to run in the family.
More hair shed in the shower, brush or bedding, loss of hair volume, widening part-lines, receding hairlines, hair breakage, oily/dull/dry/limp/frizzy hair, and-or more scalp shining through the frontal or crown areas are all common hair loss symptoms that can be caused or exacerbated by changes in hormones related to birth control.
At Bauman Medical, each year we see a large number of women seeking evaluation and treatment who are concerned about birth control related hair loss.
If you think your hair loss symptoms might a side effect related to starting or stopping birth control, learn more about your hair loss risks and what can be done about birth control-related hair loss. Birth control pills alter your body’s natural hormone levels and this can become a problem for hair growth in patients who are sensitive to changes in hormones. The use of birth control, stopping birth control, giving birth, peri-menopause, menopause and having a hysterectomy are all associated with changes in hormone levels that may trigger or exacerbate hair loss, shedding and hair thinning in women as well as other hair quality changes.
Erivedge or visomodegib capsule is a prescription oral chemotherapy medication for adults with basal cell carcinoma skin cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or that has come back after surgery or cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. At Bauman Medical, chemo hair loss expert Dr. Alan Bauman has examined, evaluated and successfully treated patients who have experienced hair loss, baldness, hair thinning and-or alopecia from Erivedge (vismodegib).
What is the Mechanism of Erivedge – vismodegib?
Vismodegib is a Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitor. By disrupting the hedgehog pathway signal which drives cancer cell growth, Erivedge prevents the cancer from growing. Hedgehog pathways may also be responsible for many of the side effects of Erivedge. For example, Sonic Hedgehog signaling is required for hair follicle development in a fetus and for regulating hair follicle growth and cycling in the adult.
What are some known side effects of Erivedge visomodegib?
In addition to loss of taste, muscle pain, muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting, birth defects, fetal death, diarrhea and fatigue, Hair Loss, alopecia, and-or thinning of scalp and body hair is a known side effect of Erivedge visomodegib. Your hair may become thin, brittle, or may fall out when taking Erivedge. This means that hair breakage, shedding and changes in texture of your hair are possible side effects. In addition to scalp hair loss, Erivedge can cause loss of any body hair, including pubic, underarm, legs/arms, eyelashes, eyebrows and nose hairs. It is assumed that interruption of the Hedgehog pathway is a possible cause of changes in hair follicle function and hair fiber production in those taking the cancer drug Erivedge visomodegib.
Hair Loss and Erivedge Medication for Cancer
Hair Loss is the second side effect listed in the FDA-approved label for Erivedge and seems to be one of the more common side effects of this chemotherapy drug.
Is vismodegib hair loss permanent?
All of the details of hair loss due to Erivedge vismodegib are not known. Hair usually starts to regrow after the treatment is completed, but could take months or longer to fully regrow. Accounts of incomplete or partial hair regrowth have been reported.
What can be done about temporary hair loss or alopecia with Erivedge?
If vismodegib is causing temporary alopecia or hair loss, the use of a 3D-Printed Cranial Prosthesis or non-surgical medical-grade hair replacement system may be an excellent option. A CNC hair prosthesis functions beyond a typical medical wig or hair replacement system.
What should I do if I have hair loss related to Erivedge?
First, notify your prescribing doctor immediately of any side effects with Erivedge. If hair loss side effects occur, seek out a qualified, credentialed (ABHRS, FISHRS, IAHRS) and experienced Hair Restoration Physician. Seek out an MD who has the ability to scientifically evaluate, measure and monitor your hair loss and hair regrowth and has access to the best treatments available. Bottom line, ask an expert. You may ask Dr. Alan Bauman a question about Erivedge hair loss and receive information about what to do if you experience hair loss with Erivedge vismodegib.
What kind of treatments will help hair regrowth after Erivedge vismodegib?
As long as hair follicles remain viable and not permanently damaged, treatments such as laser therapy (LaserCap 224 or CapillusRX), PRP Platelet Rich Plasma, Topical Formula 82M Minoxidil as well as nutritionals/supplements for hair support (Viviscal Pro, Nutrafol) may be good options. If some hair follicles are irreversibly damaged in small areas, FUE hair transplantation with SmartGraft, NeoGraft or ARTAS robotic-system may be required to restore coverage. If large numbers of hair follicles over a large area of scalp are damaged and do not respond to therapy, non-surgical hair replacement with CNC 3D-printed hair prosthesis may be an option.
Is Taxotere Linked to Permanent Hair Loss and Baldness?
For more than 20 years, at Bauman Medical we’ve treated men and women who have suffered from hair loss due to hereditary conditions, illness, injury, trauma as well as medications such as chemotherapy. While all these hair loss conditions are different, what they have in common is when someone loses their hair, we know it can have significant effects on their self-esteem, self-confidence and psychological well-being. We all know that hair is important for self-expression. Our hair is a reflection of how we view ourselves and important for how others perceive us. Hair is a sign of beauty, health and youth that is recognizable from across the room. When hair is lost, whether it be a little or a lot, it can have deep and long lasting psychological effects.
Chemotherapy and Hair Loss
The psychological effects of hair loss often surprise many people and may even prevent cancer patients from seeking the proper lifesaving treatment. Recently, well-known Rolling Stone guitarist Ronnie Wood declined chemotherapy for his lung cancer, not because he didn’t think it wouldn’t work, but because he didn’t want to lose his hair!
Thankfully for most cancer patients who receive chemotherapy, their hair returns to its normal state after the drug has been withdrawn. For others, changes in texture, color, curl and coverage are lingering problems that can be dealt with in terms of styling, hair replacement, and-or doctor-directed hair regrowth treatment options, if desired. However, when hair growth does not return after chemotherapy, especially when this happens unexpectedly, permanent baldness becomes more of a significant, long-term disfiguring burden to bear.
Breast Cancer, Taxotere and Hair Loss
It has been reported that more than 1,600 breast cancer survivors treated with Taoxtere or docataxel (Sanofi-Aventis) have experienced alopecia or permanent baldness with little to no hair regrowth after stopping the drug. From our Taxotere hair loss patients we’ve learned that this unexpected hair loss situation is a continuous and unwelcome reminder of the disease they worked so hard to defeat. The impact of this type of unexpected long-term hair loss cannot be underestimated and our hearts are heavy whenever these brave survivors seek our help.
Years into their remission, and even though they’re feeling physically well, these survivors are still treated as “sick” by those unfamiliar with their condition. They avoid family photos for years and must answer questions from their kids about why their mom didn’t get her hair back and others with a similar condition did. It can affect their personal life as well as their professional one–where in today’s job market, your professional image and first impression matter.
Should You Be Grateful Chemo Saved Your Life?
The now well-known story of Ami Dodson, a frustrated breast cancer survivor who is now living with chemo-induced alopecia said, “I should not be permanently disfigured.” She goes on to describe that she gets told all the time, “‘Well, you’re not dead. Shouldn’t you be grateful the chemo saved your life?’ No, I should be alive and also have hair. Disfigurement is not something we should accept as something that’s part for the course.” It should be noted that Dodson has gone on to file a lawsuit against Sanofi-Aventis regarding her permanent hair loss which she believes is related to her chemotherapy.
And Dodson, now in her 40’s, is not alone in her frustration. Her story is similar to countless others who have turned to Dr. Alan Bauman and Bauman Medical for help. When Dodson was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer in 2010 at age 35, doctors used Taxotere (docataxel) to treat her cancer. Later, when her hair did not return or regrow, she was diagnosed with permanent chemo-induced alopecia for which there is currently no known cure.
Taxotere and Chemo-induced Alopecia
At Bauman Medical, we’ve been seeing a significant increase in chemo-induced alopecia cases over the years. These brave survivors are healthy and certainly happy to be in remission. What they are not so happy about is the permanent hair loss that they deal with daily. The traditional wigs and weaves are uncomfortable, itchy and not particularly suited for an active lifestyle–especially here in Florida and across the United States. They also don’t like the idea of having to shave what little hair they have.
The good news is that new hair replacement technology recently brought to the United States from Bologna, Italy is an excellent solution. The new “CNC” Hair Prosthesis by Cesare Ragazzi Laboratories is created with a combination of 3D-printing and old-world craftsmanship. Once the scalp mould and template is sent to Cesare Ragazzi in Bologna, the 39-step / 240+ man-hour process is begun. The breathable, dermato-compatible “second skin” is matched with proper texture and complexion color. Then, up to 100,000 unprocessed human hair strands are meticulously blended and matched to the patient’s specifications. These hair strands are delicately sewn strand-by-strand into the “second skin” of the prosthetic’s medical-grade polymeric base with an incredible attention to artistry and detail–the angle, orientation and position of each hair is designed to be virtually identical to mother nature’s patterns.
When the CNC Hair Prosthesis for chemo is applied to the woman with severe chemotherapy hair loss and styled, the end result is a hair replacement system like no other in terms of naturalness, beauty and durability and unmatched in the freedom of lifestyle provided. Swim, shampoo, shower, dance, curl and style… all as if it was your own natural head of hair.
The Bauman Certified HairCoach Program is the brainchild of board-certified Hair Restoration Physician, Dr. Alan J. Bauman, M.D. of Boca Raton, Florida.For over two decades, he’s dedicated his entire professional career to helping those with hair loss. In addition, he’s been a champion of educating professionals and the general public interested in learning more about the causes of hair loss, effective treatments as well as the latest medical and surgical procedures in the fast changing and often confusing field of Hair Restoration.
Hair loss is a common concern for millions of men and women, but yet there are limited resources available to patients and professionals alike when it comes to effective treatments and procedures and a multitude of myths, misconceptions and misinformation. The HairCoach program was “born” out of Dr. Bauman’s well-wrought results-oriented "Bauman Protocols" which include scientifically rigorous hair loss evaluations, diagnosis, advanced treatments, obsessive follow-ups/results tracking and more.
What kind of topics are covered in HairCoach certification?
HairCoach offers information on male and female pattern hereditary hair loss and other alopecias such as traction alopecia, scarring types of alopecia, baldness prevention and more, common scalp problems like dandruff, itching, flaking, oily or dry scalp, PRP Platelet Rich Plasma hair regrowth preparation and application protocols, hair growth diagnosis and tracking with HairCheck trichometry and HairCam dermoscopy, hair restoration basics, FDA-approved and compounded medical therapies, non-chemical treatments like Low Level Laser Therapy, nutrition and nutraceuticals, proper hair care and scalp care and trichology principles, diagnostic tools and therapeutic regimens included in Scientific Scalp Makeovers™, cranial prosthetic devices, hair transplantation using NeoGraft FUE and the ARTAS robotic-assisted FUE system and much more. Future therapies such as stem cell treatments, Autologous Lipocyte Micronized Injection (ALMI Hair Regrowth), growth factors, cell therapy, hair follicle cloning or rejuvenation will be discussed.
No one in the world expects that you can become fully versed in the evaluation and treatment of hair loss in one simple workshop or seminar. However, whether you are just starting your journey towards helping those struggling with hair loss, or you want to refine your skills in the latest techniques and technology, Dr. Bauman’s HairCoach Program has proven again and again to be a valuable investment.As a Certified HairCoach (or C.H.C.), a multitude of personnel, resources and training opportunities will be available for you over the long-run to ensure your success, including additional training, online resources, priority access to Dr. Bauman and his knowledgeable staff, published research, webinars and much more.
Who should consider HairCoach training and certification?
Professionals in the beauty, aesthetic, cosmetic and anti-aging industry looking for the latest information on hair loss in men and women, diagnosis and evaluation methods, effective treatment protocols, the latest most advanced procedures, common “pearls and pitfalls,” etc., can all benefit from HairCoach program. HairCoach attendees have included physicians, surgeons, aestheticians, hairdressers, cosmetologists, registered nurses and nurse practitioners, medical assistants, physician assistants, clinic managers and many others in the health and beauty industries.
What educational resources are available through HairCoach?
While there is a robust self-study online component to HairCoach, the distillation of key points, tips, techniques and more come together in the hands-on experience at Dr. Bauman’s more than 11,000 square foot “Hair Hospital” facility in Boca Raton, FL. The jewel of the hair restoration industry, Dr. Bauman’s comprehensive and state-of-the-art facility is unmatched in its ability to help those with hair loss.Taught by renowned hair transplant surgeon and board certified Hair Restoration Physician, Dr. Alan J. Bauman himself, the HairCoach program “comes alive” for those limited number of participants who can attend the small programs, presentations and hands-on training.
What do past participants say about HairCoach?
Listen to what some HairCoach attendees have to say about the program:
More HairCoach program reviews, ratings, feedback and testimonials are available!
For more information on upcoming HairCoach class dates and registration, please visit http://www.HairCoach.net
"If a follicle can be encouraged to produce a thicker hair, often pigment will also ramp up," says Alan J. Bauman, MD, of an unexpected—but welcome—side effect of stimulating hair growth. "Using minoxidil can make more pigment deep in the hair fiber. It's not going to reverse completely gray hair, but hair can get thicker and darker."
When a hair follicle is weakened by age, heredity and other risk factors, the fiber diameter, length and pigmentation can diminish. Using treatments like Formula 82M minoxidil, Laser Therapy or PRP can help improve the follicle function and hair regrowth, producing a thicker, longer, more pigmented hair over time. --Dr. Alan Bauman - Bauman Medical Group - Formula 82M Minoxidil
Chemotherapy is designed to target fast growing cancer cells in your body. Unfortunately, chemotherapy drugs don’t distinguish between cancer cells and other rapidly growing cells your body such as those found in hair follicles. While every cancer drug is different and has different effects on different people, chemotherapy drugs may cause significant hair loss on your scalp as well as the rest of your body.
Hair follicles that produce your hair contain some of the fastest growing cells in your body. These rapidly growing cells are found in the proliferative matrix of the dermal papilla or root of the hair follicle. Hair loss in the form of sudden significant shedding can occur within a few weeks of starting chemotherapy.
Whether your hair remains “normal” during treatment, gets weaker over time, or sheds out completely depends on the type and dosage of your chemotherapy. Most chemotherapy causes temporary hair loss, but some chemotherapy medications are known to cause more hair loss more quickly and can also have a high likelihood of causing permanent damage to your hair follicles. Some patients report that after chemotherapy has stopped, their hair growth resumes but in a different volume, texture and curl. In some patients, hair regrowth may be significantly delayed or not regrow at all. If you are concerned, ask your oncologist about hair loss associated with the chemotherapy drugs he or she is prescribing and what options there are.
The thought of losing hair can be disturbing. But the good news is that you can absolutely “be prepared” for the worst-case hair loss scenario! For many chemo patients, they are focused on the treatment of their cancer—and rightly so. However, many want to continue to live a ‘normal’ life and not ‘give a face to the disease’—meaning, they want to maintain a healthy appearance to their coworkers, family, friends or others, and not necessarily discuss their health situation. Your health is your business, so you should have the option of discussing it (or not) with whom you choose. Today’s modern hair restoration and hair replacement options like "CNC" 3D-printed cranial prosthetics are significantly different than the medical wigs of the past. Many cranial prosthetics can be totally or partially covered by your insurance.
At SalonB at Bauman Medical Group, our team of professionals, led by hair loss expert Dr. Alan Bauman, can help you determine what is the best course of action to take regarding your chemotherapy hair loss situation. We work closely with many oncologists, cancer teams and social workers from around the country to help patients with chemotherapy-induced hair loss. After treating over 18,000 hair loss sufferers since 1997, we know every single hair loss patient is different, and we are here to offer help and compassionate support.
Do you want to discuss your hair loss situation with a professional, or simply be connected to others who are dealing with a similar hair loss situation from chemotherapy? Contact the experts Bauman Medical Group today at 561-394-0024. www.salonbboca.com
Roughly 80 million men and women in the U.S. suffer from hair loss. This may sound like a daunting figure, but in reality most hair loss cases today are treatable - thanks to several decades of advanced medical research and high-tech treatment development.
However, the most important weapon in the battle against baldness is a relatively simple one - early detection.
By the time hair loss becomes noticeable to the naked eye, science tells us that about 50% of the hair follicles responsible for producing hair have already shut down. The earlier patients can get started on preventive or restorative therapies, the better their odds are for retaining a full and healthy-looking head of hair.
Since August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, it’s a good opportunity for all of us - men and women, old and young - to learn more about the early signs of hair loss and the treatment options available.
Detecting Hair Loss
A common mistake with detecting hair loss is to rely on the “mirror test” before taking action. That is, most people wait until their hair loss becomes readily noticeable - perhaps it’s diffuse thinning up top for men and women, or a receding hairline.
However, relying on this type of visual cue puts you at a disadvantage because as noted above, by the time hair loss is visible half of your hair in that area may be already gone.
Some people think that a better way to check for early signs of hair loss is to examine how much hair is being shed each day. This also can by tricky because a typical healthy head of hair will lose approximately 100 hair strands per day due to natural hair follicle cycling. If you’re noticing an excessive number of hairs on the pillow in the morning, at the bottom of the shower or in the comb, you may be in the active stages of hereditary hair loss.What’s tricky about that?Well, excessive shedding doesn’t always mean you have male or female pattern hair loss--it could be a sign of an underlying health problem or even a scalp issue, which results in temporary shedding of hair called telogen effluvium.
Further, patients put themselves at another disadvantage when they tell themselves that their hair loss has stopped.Studies show us that left untreated, hair loss will always get worse over time even though visually it appears to have stopped.
For these reasons, it is important to schedule a visit with an experienced, board-certified hair restoration physician when these symptoms are observed. He or she will be able to run the proper tests to determine the true cause of your hair loss, and what types of treatments might be needed. A hair restoration physician can also run tests that will help predict the likelihood of future hair loss.
Diagnosing the Problem
Aside from blood work and other traditional tests, Hair restoration physicians have several tools at their disposal to gauge a person’s risk of hair loss, and the rate at which active hair loss is progressing.
These include:
Genetic tests - While the results are a little more complicated than a “yes” or “no”, a new genetic test by HairDX can accurately determine a man’s (and woman’s) risk for losing their hair, so they can begin preventive treatments early. The test uses a simple cheek swab and can determine the genetic risk of developing male and female pattern hair loss. There are also genetic tests that can determine how well you are likely to respond to certain medical treatments. For example, the HairDX Genetic Test for androgen sensitivity can help predict your response to certain types of medical treatment (such as finasteride or Propecia). This information helps the physician tailor a treatment regimen specific to the patient’s genetics and therefore patients avoid spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a treatment that may not be effective for them.
Hair density measurements - The HairCheck® device is a highly sensitive hand-held ‘trichometer,’ which measures hair caliber and hair density together, and expresses them as a single number known as the Hair Mass Index (HMI), or "Hair Number.”Doctors can use this number to accurately assess hair loss, growth and breakage on any area of the scalp. By tracking these numbers, a physician can determine the extent and rate of the patient's hair loss and/or breakage, and inform them of any changes over time. This information also helps monitor and track the efficacy of their treatment regimen in case modifications are needed. This type of testingworks for both men and women.
Scalp exams - Newly developed “Trico-Tests” are highly effective at determining if an underlying problem with the scalp is the root cause of a hair disorder. Patients are evaluated with non-invasive, pain-free skin diagnostic tests that check the scalp’s pH, sebum and hydration levels to determine if there are any abnormalities. A magnified videoscopic examination of the scalp is also performed to examine any signs of scalp flaking or dandruff, excess sebum production, identify bacterial or fungal colonies and assess overall hair follicle health and function. Depending on the patient’s symptoms, hair strand cortisol level testing may also be administered (for example: Bauman Medical’s “sTRESS Test”). Scalp testing is available for both men and women.
Effective Treatment Options
Once the cause of the hair loss has been determined, an effective treatment program can be developed. This is likely to include a multi-therapy approach, and certain lifestyle changes may also be recommended.
Today, there are a variety of effective treatment options available for both men and women:
Topical and Oral Treatments: In addition to the over-the-counter minoxidil-containing Rogaine, and Rogaine for Women, topical treatments include compounded topical minoxidil Formula 82M and Latisse/Bimatoprost or other prostaglandin analogs. Currently, there is only one FDA-approved oral medication, (finasteride, brand name Propecia).
Low Level Laser Therapy: In recent years, low-level laser therapy has become a key element of the multi-therapy hair restoration regimen. Thanks to continued device approvals from the FDA specifically for hair regrowth, and a wide array of devices, including in-office laser ‘hoods’, at-home handheld units, hats, and brushes, more patients and doctors are utilizing phototherapy as an effective treatment option.
Nutritionals: Many hair loss patients benefit from the addition of nutritional supplementation in their treatment regimen. Hair vitamins and supplements, like Viviscal Pro and “SuperBiotin” are specially-formulated to nourish thinning hair, while also creating a healthy environment for existing hair and hair follicles.
Scalp Makeover: During a scalp makeover, the patient undergoes a simple skin diagnostic test to see if their sebum, pH, hydration, toxin and cortisol levels are imbalanced, and then depending on the results, a variety of scalp therapies are provided. Treatments for the scalp range from sebum-regulating topical serums (as well as hydration, anti-DHT and blood microcirculation stimulants) to scalp steaming, scalp massage, electrotherapy stimulation, hair boosting dermal patches and laser therapy. A scalp makeover can help overcome common hair problems, including hair thinning, excessive shedding and breakage.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy, or PRP: The use of autologous PRP (platelet rich plasma) for wound healing after hair transplants and as a stand-alone treatment for enhancing hair growth has become a promising new treatment for both men and women. The application of PRP to the scalp requires short outpatient visits which can normally be done over a lunch hour.
Hair Transplant Robotics: The first robot designed to perform part of the hair transplant recently became available. Called the ARTAS System, it’s an image-guided robot that harvests up to 1,000 hair grafts in a single hour – which has made hair transplant surgery even more accurate and efficient and leaves no linear scar.
NeoGraft FUE: Less invasive hair transplants allow for the transplantation of hair without the ‘telltale’ signs of old-style hair transplantation such as the linear scar on the back of the head. The NeoGraft device helps the surgeon extracts hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp individually without the need for scalpel or stitches, leaving no linear scar. Recovery is faster, more comfortable and less restrictive. Artistic hairline design and single-follicle transplantation techniques create hair transplant results that truly defy detection.
3D Printed Hair: For male or female hair loss patients suffering from severe or extensive hair loss, or those looking for an alternative to hair transplantation, “3D-Printed Hair” is the latest breakthrough in hair replacement. New non-surgical medical-grade hair and scalp prosthesis, like the CNC Hair Replacement System, offers a customized, natural hair replacement option for a complete return to an active lifestyle, without compromise! The 3D printed hair system can be shampooed, dried and styled as your own hair. With monthly maintenance and proper care, the prosthesis can last up to 4-5 years - much longer than traditional wigs or hairpieces.
Visit http://www.baumanmedical.com for an overview of these treatment options.
Seeing It Through
Treatment programs should be customized for the individual patient, and based on a full examination of the person’s genetic factors, health history, hair loss progression and lifestyle issues. Routine follow-ups are also important in order to determine how well the follicles are responding to the treatments, and to see if changes should be made in the therapy regimen.
One of the hardest parts of treating hair loss is helping the patient understand that it is a long-term investment and process. Just like hair loss, initial changes in hair regrowth take time and can be subtle before they are noticeable to the naked eye.
When one starts to actually treat their hair loss, it is important to keep in mind that it can take more than a year to see the full, final results from treatment. This is longer than many other treatments or procedures that patients have experience with so many patients are tempted to end their hair treatments too soon.Ending treatment prematurely disrupts any progress that had been made. Regular follow-ups should be performed every 90 days as this helps to reconfirm to the patient that they are responding to their treatment regimen and getting the best results possible. If they are not responding, adjustments to treatments can be made expeditiously.
Hair loss is a treatable condition, but the earlier the problem is detected and treatment started, the better your chances are of keeping your hair and re-growing what has been diminished.
Tips on Finding a Hair Restoration Physician
A hair restoration physician is someone who specializes exclusively in the medical diagnosis, treatment and tracking of hair loss and its treatment.
Look for physicians who are board-certified in hair restoration by the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, accepted members of the International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons and recommended by the American Hair Loss Association.
Due to the limited number of board-certified hair restoration physicians worldwide, prospective patients should be prepared to travel and consult long-distance.
Before choosing your doctor, visit the clinic, read reviews, ask for before-and-after pictures and, most importantly, ask questions.
Medical doctors who do not specialize in hair restoration (general practitioners, dermatologists, etc.) may not be up to date on the latest treatment methods and technologies. This can lead to subpar results and, in some cases, treatment complications.
Visit http://www.baumanmedical.com to start a consultation with hair loss expert and board-certified hair restoration physician, Dr. Alan J. Bauman.
Among the six treatments for hair loss recommended in the Today.com story are compounded minoxidil (rogaine alternatives), nutritionals like Viviscal Pro, laser therapy with LaserCap, PRP Platelet Rich Plasma. Other therapies used by full time hair restoration physicians include no-scalpel, no-stitch Hair Transplantation with NeoGraft or using the the ARTAS robotic system.
For women, the most common triggers are hormonal (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome) or hereditary, but autoimmune conditions and nutritional deficiencies can also be to blame. And unlike men, we tend to lose hair gradually and all over the head, so it can take longer to detect. "Many of my patients notice a change in the shape of their face as the temples recede, a widening of their part line or that their ponytail is smaller in diameter," says hair restoration specialist Dr. Alan Bauman, who heads the Bauman Medical Group in Boca Raton, Florida.
Luckily, there's a lot that can be done, from lasers to lotions and everything in between. And you'll be rewarded for treating it early. "I liken it to sun damage — it's never too late to address the problem, but it will get worse with time if you don't slow the progression," says Bauman. Here, the best, doctor-approved treatments from easy-peasy to full-on offense.
Check out at-home lasers.
Discreet enough to fit under a cute cloche, the Laser Cap is a powerful (but pricey) way to increase hair mass. "We've had excellent results using laser therapy in-office for several years, but now most patients are treating themselves out of the office," says Bauman. "The device emits low-level laser light treatment proven to enhance growth while you go about your day. It's painless, chemical-free, has no side effects and you see results in 90 days." (And it's a great excuse to expand your hat collection.)
Investigate PRP.
Ready for the big guns? "Platelet-rich plasma is the newest frontier," says Bauman. "It allows us to exploit your body's own pharmacy of growth factors. It isn't an overnight cure, but we can clinically measure improvements in several weeks, and they're noticeable to the naked eye after six months." Here's how it works: A small sample of the patient's blood is processed to separate out the platelets and stem-cell-rich plasma. In some cases, additional "bioscaffolding" — sometimes placental tissue from screened donors — is blended in to improve the effects. Then, the custom cocktail is shallowly injected under the scalp under local anesthesia. Sounds intense, but "it's comfortable, takes less than an hour and there is no recovery phase," promises Bauman.
The key is accurate diagnosis, effective prescription treatments and proper routine follow-up HairCheck measurements. For more info about board certified hair restoration physician, Dr. Alan Bauman, visit http://www.baumanmedical.com
Medical Grade Hair and Scalp Prosthetic Made with 3D-Printing for Dr. Alan J. Bauman’s Hair Transplant Patient Unveiled at CARF Alopecia Conference
Top hair loss doctors, researchers and over 150 patients met and spoke with Cicatricial Alopecia patient ‘Ivory’ who underwent an innovative hair restoration method by Dr. Bauman combining the latest permanent FUE/FUT hair transplantation procedure with a custom 3D-printed hair and scalp prosthetic device.
Internationally recognized hair loss expert, Dr. Alan J. Bauman, recently teamed up with the Cicatricial Alopecia Research Foundation or CARF to raise awareness on scarring alopecia as well as educate patients, researchers and physicians on some of the new options available for this currently incurable condition.
"This year's conference was a huge success, and allowed us to further CARF's mission to provide education and patient support, raise public awareness, and advance and promote research. It truly was a collaborative team effort, and we are so thankful to have the support from Dr. Bauman, and others in the hair restoration community, who are helping to improve the care of patients with scarring alopecia," said Nicole Rogers, MD, FAAD and Conference Chair. Dr. Bauman was invited by Dr. Rogers and CARF to be a featured speaker at their 7th International Patient-Doctor Conference, June 3-5, in New Orleans, #CARF2016. His presentation, “The Best of All Worlds,” was focused on the combined use of a medical grade 3D printed hair and scalp prosthetic along with hair transplantation in a patient with traction alopecia and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia. Dr. Bauman and his patient, “Ivory,” were in attendance at the conference to discuss her experience with cicatricial alopecia and her treatment, which included hair transplantation and a custom CRLab CNC hair replacement system made in Bologna, Italy.
“Cicatricial alopecia affected my self-confidence and has been self-limiting for me. I refused to see a new hair stylist, as I was afraid they would be shocked or ask numerous questions. I was afraid and ashamed to seek help. I also avoided activities, such as swimming or simply riding in a convertible,” said Dr. Bauman’s patient Ivory. “Now, my results are permanent and I feel 100% more confident. Dr. Bauman and my new CNC system have given me a new outlook for managing and coping with my hair loss.”
Some of the experts who were in attendance to present and participate in the panel discussions along with Dr. Alan Bauman include Dr. Antonella Tosti, Dr. Yolanda Lenzy, Dr. Melissa Piliang, Dr. Lady Dy, Dr. Lynne Goldberg, Dr. Erin Boh, Dr. Marc Avram, Dr. Patricia Farris, Dr. Kate Holcomb, Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, Dr. Maria Hordinsky, Dr. Fonda Farah, Ms. Rita Wanser, Ms. Elayne Kuehler, Ms. Debbie Guastella and Dr. Jeff Donovan. This event was sponsored in part by Procter & Gamble, Lifes2Good (makers of Viviscal) and Cesare Ragazzi Laboratories (makers of the CRLab CNC Hair Replacement System).
“CARF is a truly unique organization that has really grown into a valuable resource for both patients and physicians,” Dr. Bauman commented. To learn more about this condition and request Dr. Bauman’s presentation from the conference visit http://www.alopecia.md To learn more about CARF - the Cicatricial Alopecia Research Foundation, or to make a donation, visit https://www.crowdrise.com/cictricalalopeciares If you or someone you know has hair loss or scalp concerns, schedule either a long-distance phone consultation or an in-person, in-office consultation with Dr. Bauman online at http://www.baumanmedical.com or by calling toll-free 844-GET-HAIR or +1-561-394-0024.
About Dr. Alan J. Bauman: Alan J. Bauman, M.D. is a full-time hair transplant surgeon who has treated over 17,000 patients and performed over 7,000 hair transplant procedures since starting his hair loss practice, Bauman Medical, in 1997 located in Boca Raton, FL. Dr. Bauman received his M.D. degree from New York Medical College and surgical residency training at Mt. Sinai Medical Center and Beth Israel Medical Center in New York. Dr. Bauman is one of approximately 100 physicians worldwide to achieve board certification from the esteemed American and International Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. He is a Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, and is an active participant and lecturer at numerous Annual Scientific Meetings and Live Surgery Workshops. Dr. Alan Bauman has appeared in print, radio and television as a medical expert and successful early-adopter of the most advanced technologies in the treatment of hair loss. Appearances, interviews and profiles include the Today Show, The Early Show, Good Morning America, Extra, Access Hollywood and Dateline NBC among other TV appearances. Newspaper and Magazine articles and feature stories include The New York Times, Newsweek, Cosmo, Vogue, Allure, O – The Oprah Magazine and Men’s Health among others. To learn more about treatment options for cicatricial alopecia visit http://www.BaumanMedical.com
