My Story with Hair Shedding.

40% of women will experience hair loss over time and a lot of that can be either genetic hair loss which means you’re naturally predisposed to it, other times can be reactive due to a specific trigger such as stress, hormone imbalance, weight loss or illness or even using harsh chemicals like hair colouring, perming lotions, peroxide etc. Whilst there are some amazing products you can buy over the counter, I think it is definitely worth seeking advice from a professional beforehand as they will investigate and really help you find the cause and direct you to the best treatment tailored to your requirements. Any expert guidance, support and advice through what can be a highly emotional experience is the best way forward.

My story:

2002 was a very difficult year for me, after having years of fertility treatment and lots of change after a breakup and although I can’t be 100% sure if it had an effect on the hair shedding I experienced, I do believe the stress had an impact. Since doing research, I’ve now come to realise that it is so common that people who are going through high levels of stress, do experience hair shedding or hair thinning in various forms. So with the combination of those events, I noticed over time as I would brush my hair, blow dry it or even take out of a hairband from a ponytail, I was seeing lots of strands coming out so easily. It was so scary and even terrifying, especially the unknown of it all, which then in turn makes you more stressed – it’s like the worst snowball effect.

It came to light when I was looking back into my photo gallery to find an image for a brand, I looked at my hair from a picture taken on 2020 (the first two photo’s above) and I just knew there was a significant difference to what it was in that moment (the third photo). I sent all three pics to my Mum and we could both see that change in density and thickness. Having really taken more notice, this made me stress out even more as I wasn’t sure how bad it would continue to shed. It totally knocked my confidence.

I did some research and  booked an appointment at the Belgravia Centre which is a well known Trichology centre which offers a free consultation which was great! The team are so experienced and start with a scalp analysis and take magnifying photos of the scalp to identify the type of hair loss, for both men and women. From there, the experts create bespoke treatments for their clients including hair growth boosters medications, along with lifestyle and nutritional advice. They prescribed me an amazing treatment called Minoxidil which was the first medical hair loss treatment to be proven to reverse male pattern baldness and female hair loss. It essentially increases the blood supply to the area it’s applied and increases the nutrients delivered to the hair follicles. It’s brilliant! I learnt during this process that you can’t use this when undergoing any kind of IVF treatments, pregnancy or post natal. So be mindful that if you are trying to conceive that this is an avenue to avoid. I have discovered an amazing brand which you can use at any time, throughout all health changes or stages of life, it’s called TYPEA. More to follow below…

NIOXIN

I used NIOXIN products last year for a 4 or 5 month period and I have to say I was absolutely over the moon with the results. The Nioxin Night Density Rescue Treatment works its magic while you sleep and is clinically proven to boost hair density in just two months! This leave-in liquid treatment works during your body’s natural regeneration process to fight against hair loss and has a mix of powerful antioxidants to neutralise the scalp and promote a thicker and fuller appearance. I love how it dries in just 5 minutes after application and leaves absolutely no residue on your pillow.

In the morning I then used the Nioxin Anti-Hair Loss Treatment which I just sprayed through the roots and massage evenly across the scalp. Again, you don’t have to rinse and it dries super quick and gives the hair some body, which I love! As much as it is a treatment that is really helping to restore your scalp and strenghten your hair, it really does give, good hair day! These products are so lightweight, non sticky, so easy to apply and smell gorgeous!

TYPEBEA

I’ve recently been using this incredible range of products by TYPEBEA for really effective hair growth. The brand is safe to use through all stages of life. There are a lot of hair growth products that are formulated with hormones meaning they are unsuitable for use when pregnant or breastfeeding, however TYPEBEA are completely clean and safe to use! I’m especially loving the G.1 Overnight Boosting Peptide, it penetrates into the scalp to increase hair thickness and prevents hair loss (by 60%). It promotes hair growth by rejuvenating the hair follicle to help strengthen the strands at the roots, whilst preventing snapping.

I’ve been using this every single day and have definitely noticed a huge difference in my hair!

VIVISCAL HEALTHY HAIR VITAMINS

Scientifically formulated for women and backed by over 25 years of research and development, these Healthy Hair supplements are full of essential vitamins and minerals to help maintain hair growth by nourishing from within! The reviews are incredible with people seeing a difference in hair density and new hair growth within 2 months. The key ingredient of a rich marine collagen complex, blended with other hair health heroes such as Biotin, Zinc, Iron, Vitamin C and Silica are a perfect combination for for maintenance of normal hair growth.

Phillip Kingsley

Phillip Kingsley has such a fabulous range of hair products. I love the Density Range including a Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner, Scalp Masks and Toners and various Booster Supplements.  They are all specifically formulated to help preserve hair density and reduce hair fall. All products work together to provide long-term benefits to both the scalp and hair.

Not only do they provide products for you to use at home, they offer bespoke Treatment and Wellness Plans. You can complete a short online assessment and their incredible team of world-renowned Trichologists can offer advice and ongoing support wherever you need it.

In addition to introducing Nioxin and taking supplements, I have also made a conscious decision to have my hair coloured less and also go for more of a natural blonde shade with a soft smudgy root. This took a while to get used to as I have been platnimum blonde for years! This look is far less maintenance and actually looks a lot more effortless and my hair is gradually thickening up with more density.

I can’t believe this is my hair now and I’m so grateful, for all the help and advice I have been given and to the amazing products I have used.

Feel free to reach out on my DM’s if you are concerned about hair loss/shedding. I’m no expert but after experiencing it myself I will help the best I can.

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