Hair Loss FAQs: Real Answers from Dr. Santpal Sangwan
I answer the questions I hear every day in my clinic, from the causes of thinning to distinguishing between normal shedding and permanent balding.
Is daily hair fall the same as hair loss? No, it's not. I explain the natural hair life cycle, where shedding is normal. Hair loss, or baldness, is different, and it's important to know the signs so you can act early.
What are the main causes of hair fall? I break down the most common reasons, from the genetic and hormonal cause of Androgenetic Alopecia to factors like stress, infections, and other medical conditions like thyroid issues or diabetes.
How is hair loss different in men and women? I explain the typical patterns. Men often see a receding hairline or balding at the crown, while women usually experience diffuse thinning. The treatment approach is different for each.
What is Traction Alopecia? This type of hair loss is caused by mechanical force, like tying your hair too tightly. It's common in our Sikh communities, known as 'Turban Alopecia', and also in women who prefer tight hairstyles.
This video explains the difference between Androgenetic Alopecia, which is hormonal, and Traction Alopecia, which is mechanical. In Traction Alopecia, hair thinning is not a primary sign, which helps in differentiating it.
What is the first line of treatment for hair fall? There is no single answer. The first step is to visit a dermatologist to find the asli wajah (real reason). Treatment can range from nutritional therapy and serums to Minoxidil, PRP, or even a transplant if needed.
Can lost hair be regrown? Yes, but with "terms and conditions applied". For early stages, medications and PRP can work wonders. If the hair follicle is gone, then a hair transplant is the only way to bring hair back to that area.
About Aapke Sawal: Your Hair Loss Questions Answered
Most people rush for chemical fixes without understanding if they are dealing with temporary shedding or permanent Androgenetic Alopecia. My first priority is always to conduct a digital trichoscopy to map your hair density and identify the exact root cause, whether it is hormonal, stress-related, or genetic. Only after we pinpoint the reason do we discuss a roadmap, which might involve simple medical management or targeted therapies like GFC, rather than jumping straight to surgery.
Many patients visit me having already tried over the counter gels or oils that promised overnight results. The reality is that hair loss is a process. Whether you are dealing with Androgenetic Alopecia, which is genetically driven, or Traction Alopecia caused by tight hairstyles, there is no one size fits all solution.
Why Assessment Matters
When you come for a consultation, we do not just look at your scalp. We use digital trichoscopy to visualize follicular health. This helps us see if the follicles are dormant but alive, or if they have completely miniaturized. If we catch this early, we can often stop the progression with medications like Minoxidil or therapies like PRP and GFC. These treatments stimulate the root, providing nutrients exactly where they are needed to jumpstart the regrowth phase.
The Truth About Surgery
Surgery is a partner, not a cure-all. I see many men and women worrying about scarring or pain. With the advanced FUE technique, we ensure natural hairline design with minimal discomfort. However, even the best transplant requires your cooperation in the post-op phase. Patience is non-negotiable here, as full results take 9 to 12 months to show. My goal is to equip you with the right knowledge so you can make an informed decision about your hair, rather than guessing what works.
Similar work from other experts
Browse through Curated picks from other experts on mytribe
Expert Hair Advice: Answers to Your Hair Loss Concerns
Hair Loss Myths Debunked: Expert Q&A with Dr. Kunal Singh
Expert Advice on Hair and Scalp Health
Expert Insights on Hair Health and Restoration
Understanding Hair Loss: Expert Guidance on Causes & Care
Hair Care Questions Answered: Science-Backed Truths
More from Non-Surgical Hair Loss Treatments by Santpal Sangwan
More services by Santpal Sangwan