Began experiencing diffuse hair loss after the birth of my first child at age 24. Thyroid levels were borderline, hair follicles looked okay under microscope so dermatologist put me on 6 month regimen of topical Rogaine. It was a prescription back then. It did work. I cut my hair to ~ chin length and used no hair bows, ties etc. Washed with a gentle shampoo and attempted to handle as little as possible. In ~ 3 months my hairdresser informed me she could see "little hairs coming in all over". I literally burst into tears.
Four years later it happened again after the birth of my second child. By this time I had been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and put myself on topical Rogaine. I also took the same measures of hair care and continued consuming prenatal vitamins for ~ 3 months after pregnancy. The hair came back as before but it just didn't seem as thick. Mind you, I have fine hair to begin with, but this seemed like "baby hair", very fine and wispy.
Every time I have had a supper stressful situation occur in my life the hair loss repeats itself. I don't have a great deal of hair and what I have is very fine in texture, so any loss seems traumatic. I went again to the dermatologist and he diagnosed me with "telogan effluvian" and told me I should utilize topical Rogaine, however, if I ever stop using it the hair will fall out. I have used it full time ever since.
Additionally, I take vitamin supplements of biotin, vitamin B, Zinc and vitamin D in the winter when the D level in my body runs low via blood test. I maintain my thyroid medicine and attempt to have lean protein in my diet. My hair is fine, and is a little dry due to the alcohol in the Rogaine and hair coloring. I moisturize and attempt to "baby" my hair but wish for a thicker healthier head of hair.
I went to a free consultation at Hair Club and the follicle analysis showed at least 2 hairs growing out of most follicles with some 3's...just really fine hair. I did not see any "dead" follicle areas which was a relief. The treatment they prescribed doesn't seem that different than what I am doing on my own...similar vitamins, topical minoxidil ....but they utilize the hair wand and hair treatments that supposedly attack DHT. No guarantees of course and a $3,000- $4,000 investment.
I am not opposed to paying the $ for something that honestly works....just wish I knew what that was.
