Dr. Bernstein addresses the common myth that hair loss is inherited exclusively from the mother’s side of the family – and, more specifically, from your mother’s father. While your mother’s (or maternal grandfather’s) genes can be the culprit, the characteristics of your hair are influenced by many different genes that may come from either or both sides of your family.
This is a newly revised edition of the popular Hair Loss & Replacement for Dummies. The 2011 edition, written by internationally-respected hair transplant pioneers Dr. William R. Rassman and Dr. Robert M. Bernstein with contributions from Dr. Jae P. Pak and Dr. Eric S. Schweiger, presents the latest information on a variety of topics of […]
Dr. Bernstein is interviewed on Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil) hair loss medications, which ones are most effective, how they work, and any side effects.
Synopsis: Important information for men and women of virtually all ages anxious to preserve their full head of hair, put the brakes on balding, or explore the safest and most reliable hair replacement techniques currently available. The book offers readers not only the full gamut of modern-day hair-care options, but crucial tips on how to avoid unscrupulous hair transplant doctors and potentially harmful products as well. Purchase at Amazon.com | Podcast Transcript | Press Release
Q: I recently visited my dermatologist regarding my hair loss, and after checking my hair he said I am showing signs of [Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)], and said if I don't treat it, it will progress. From my research on the net, I figured he will put me on Propecia. In fact he put me on Avodart. When I told him it is not FDA-approved for hair loss, and Propecia is, he said Avodart is better and brings DHT down more, and Propecia is nothing next to Avodart. He told me to take it every day for 2 weeks, then every other day from then on as it has a long half life. From researching on the net, many hair restoration doctors, rarely prescribe Avodart for hair loss due to some dangers. What is your opinion on this? -- T.G., Darien, Connecticut A: Although dutasteride (Avodart) can be more effective for male pattern hair loss, I would start with finasteride (Propecia) as many patients do great with it and the safety profile is better. The following are things I would consider before starting dutasteride: As you point out, dutasteride is not FDA-approved for hair loss. There is no data on its…
Hair Loss & Replacement for Dummies is filled with important information for men and women of virtually all ages anxious to preserve their full head of hair, put the brakes on balding, or explore the safest and most reliable hair replacement techniques currently available. The book offers readers not only the full gamut of modern-day hair-care options but crucial tips on how to avoid unscrupulous hair transplant doctors and potentially harmful products as well. Purchase Book on Amazon.com
Synopsis: The discovery of the Androgen Receptor (AR) gene and related genes has expanded our knowledge on the genetics of common baldness (androgenetic alopecia). Recent basic science and clinical studies have lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of hair loss in both men and women. These genetic advances have lead to the development of a new screening test for androgenetic alopecia. In addition to the two currently approved FDA medications (minoxidil and finasteride) the FDA has approved a laser hair comb for the treatment of hair loss. Further studies are needed to verify the accuracy and validity of the genetic screening test and the efficacy of the laser hair comb.
Topical application of the solution containing melatonin, ginkgo biloba and biotin was found to reduce hair loss, and in some cases grow new hair. Incidence of seborrhea was also reduced by the treatment. While the exact mechanism for this result is unknown, if effective, it is likely related to the antioxidative effect of melatonin and/or a melatonin receptor-mediated antiandrogenic effects. More research on melatonin needs to be conducted, but this study acts as a proof of concept for the use of melatonin as a treatment for early hair loss in men and women and potentially as a treatment for seborrhea.
Dr. Bernstein was interviewed for an article in NYCityWoman.com that ran the gamut of available treatments for hair loss in women. Read for some select quotes on a wide range of topics related to hair loss in women and treatments for female patients with androgenetic alopecia (common genetic hair loss).
Q: Can stress accelerate hair loss? I am 25 and there is balding on my dad's side of the family. I never had any thinning or hair loss till this year. I guess you can say I've been under a lot of stress. When I did notice shortly after my 25th birthday I started stressing even more, which led to more hair loss. It is thinner up front and it is thin on top. I have heard of some hair docs mapping your head for miniaturization, do you do this too? -- E.W., Miami, FL A: Yes. The presence of miniaturization (decreased hair diameter) in the areas of thinning allows us to distinguish between hair loss due to heredity (i.e. androgenetic alopecia) -- in which hair progressively decreases in diameter under the influence of DHT -- and other causes. The degree of miniaturization can be assessed using a hand-held instrument called a densitometer. The pattern of hair loss and the family history are also important in the diagnosis. Stress more commonly produces telogen effluvium, a generalized shedding that is not associated with miniaturization and is often reversible without treatment. Read more about the Diagnosis of Hair Loss in Men Read…