Combining TCM with Modern Hair and Scalp Therapy

Hair Loss

Hair loss in a hot and humid country like Singapore can be influenced by several factors unique to the environment and lifestyle. Strong UV rays exposure can damage the scalp and hair follicles, weakening them and leading to hair loss. High humidity can contribute to scalp oiliness, clogging hair follicles and hindering hair growth. Excessive rainfall and humidity may also create a breeding ground for fungal infections, which can cause hair loss.

Moreover, the high-stress levels prevalent in urban environments like Singapore can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding and hair loss. Poor sleep habits, often due to late-night activities, can disrupt circadian rhythms and hormonal balance, further exacerbating hair loss.

Frequent hair coloring and styling practices are common in Singapore, but chemical treatments and heat styling tools can damage the hair shaft and weaken hair follicles, leading to breakage and hair loss over time.

Symptoms of early-stage hair loss may include increased shedding, noticeable thinning of the hair, widening of the part line, or receding hairline. People may also observe more hair in the shower drain or on their pillows.

It's crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to visit a dermatologist early. Early intervention is key in managing reversing hair loss. An experienced Hair Consultant or TCM physician can assess the underlying causes of hair loss and recommend appropriate treatments.

Once hair follicles are dead, they can no longer produce hair, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. Delaying treatment may lead to irreversible damage to the hair follicles and permanent hair loss.

Hair Thinning

Hair Thinning can be attributed to several main causes:

Environmental Factors: The tropical climate of Singapore, characterized by high humidity and intense sunlight, can damage hair follicles and lead to hair thinning. Constant exposure to UV rays can weaken the hair shaft and cause breakage, resulting in thinning hair over time.

Excessive Sweating: The hot and humid weather in Singapore often leads to excessive sweating, especially on the scalp. Sweat contains salt and other minerals that can build up on the scalp, clogging hair follicles and hindering healthy hair growth. This can contribute to hair thinning and eventual hair loss.

Humidity-Induced Frizz: High humidity levels can cause hair to become frizzy and unmanageable. Constant friction and tugging on the hair strands can weaken them, leading to breakage and thinning over time, particularly in individuals who frequently tie their hair or use heat styling tools to combat frizz.

Poor Scalp Health: The humid climate in Singapore can exacerbate scalp conditions such as dandruff and fungal infections. These conditions can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair thinning and shedding. Additionally, inadequate scalp hygiene due to sweat and oil buildup can further contribute to hair thinning issues.

Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Stress is a common trigger for hair thinning, and the fast-paced lifestyle in Singapore can lead to high stress levels among individuals in the target age group. Stress-induced hair loss, known as telogen effluvium, can result in significant hair thinning over the scalp.

Genetics and Hormonal Factors: While environmental factors play a significant role, genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances can also contribute to hair thinning in both men and women. Conditions such as androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) may become more pronounced due to the environmental stressors present in a hot and humid climate.

Overall, the combination of environmental factors, poor scalp health, stress, and genetic predisposition contribute to hair thinning.

Male Pattern Balding

Hair loss in men can manifest in various forms, with some of the most common types including:

Male Pattern Baldness (also known as Androgenetic Alopecia), is characterized by a progressive and predictable pattern of hair loss in men. It typically begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually leading to partial or complete baldness. The condition is primarily attributed to genetic factors and hormonal influences, particularly the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT binds to receptors in the scalp, causing hair follicles to shrink over time. This miniaturization process leads to shorter and finer hair until the follicles cease producing hair altogether. Male Pattern Baldness follows a distinct pattern, with the hair loss typically occurring in a specific pattern resembling the shape of an “O", “M", “O” and “M” concurrently, or "U" on the scalp.

Stress related hair loss : Stress can trigger hair loss in men by disrupting the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding. High stress levels elevate cortisol levels, which can disrupt hormonal balance and impede the production of new hair cells. This can result in temporary hair loss conditions such as Telogen Effluvium or exacerbate existing hair loss patterns like Androgenetic Alopecia.

Patchy hair loss (known as Alopecia Areata) occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss in distinct, round patches on the scalp or body. It is believed to be an autoimmune condition triggered by genetic and environmental factors

Causes of hair loss in men vary across different age groups:

Below 30: In younger men, male pattern baldness can still occur, often due to genetic predisposition. Other factors such as stress, poor diet, and lifestyle habits may contribute to early-onset hair loss.

30 to 50 years old: Male pattern baldness tends to be more prevalent in this age group, as genetic factors and DHT sensitivity become more pronounced. Stress, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental factors may also play a role.

Above 50: As men age, hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in testosterone levels, can contribute to hair loss. Additionally, the cumulative effects of genetic predisposition and DHT sensitivity may result in more significant hair thinning or balding.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, hair loss in men is often linked to Kidney deficiency, particularly the Kidney Jing (essence). The Kidneys are considered the foundation of vitality and play a crucial role in nourishing the hair and promoting its growth. Deficiency in Kidney Jing can lead to weakened hair follicles and premature hair loss. TCM treatments for hair loss in men often focus on tonifying the Kidneys and nourishing Blood and Qi (vital energy) to promote hair growth and prevent further loss. Herbs such as He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) are commonly used to support Kidney health and address hair loss from a TCM perspective.

Female Pattern Balding

Hair loss in women can result from various factors, ranging from hormonal changes to external influences like chemical treatments or styling practices. Here are some common types:

Postnatal Hair Loss (Postpartum Alopecia): After childbirth, many women experience temporary hair loss due to hormonal fluctuations. During pregnancy, elevated hormone levels prolong the growth phase of hair, resulting in thicker locks. However, after childbirth, hormone levels drop, leading to increased shedding. This typically occurs 2-4 months post-delivery and resolves within a year.

Postmenopausal Hair Loss: Estrogen levels decline during menopause, affecting hair growth cycles. Hair becomes finer, and the growth phase shortens, leading to increased shedding. This type of hair loss tends to be gradual and progressive.

Hair Loss Due to Excessive Chemical Treatments: Regular use of chemical treatments like hair dyes, perms, or straightening agents can damage the hair shaft, leading to breakage and hair loss. Chemical treatments weaken the hair, making it more prone to damage and thinning over time.

Incorrect or Excessive Use of Styling Products: Overuse of styling products such as hair sprays, gels, or mousses can weigh down the hair, causing breakage and hair loss. Additionally, certain ingredients in styling products may irritate the scalp, leading to inflammation and subsequent hair loss.

Telogen Effluvium:This type of hair loss occurs due to a disruption in the hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding. It can be triggered by various factors such as stress, illness, surgery, or significant weight loss. Telogen effluvium often manifests as diffuse hair thinning rather than bald patches.

Dandruff

Dandruff, a common scalp condition, can arise from various factors including fungal overgrowth, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, or sensitivity to hair care products. It presents as white or yellowish flakes on the scalp and hair, often accompanied by itching and irritation.

The presence of dandruff negatively impacts the scalp by causing inflammation and itching, leading to discomfort and potential skin damage. Continuous scratching can further aggravate the scalp, causing redness and even open sores, making the scalp vulnerable to infections.

Beyond physical discomfort, dandruff can significantly affect a person's confidence and self-esteem. Visible flakes on clothing can be embarrassing and may cause social anxiety, impacting personal and professional interactions. The constant worry about flaking and itching can diminish one's confidence, affecting overall wellbeing.

The appearance of dandruff can also detract from a person's overall look. Flakes may be visible on hair and clothing, giving the impression of poor hygiene or neglect. This can lead to self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with one's appearance.

If left untreated, dandruff can worsen and lead to more severe scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections. Chronic inflammation and irritation may also compromise the scalp's ability to support healthy hair growth.

Dandruff can directly impact new hair growth by disrupting the scalp's environment. Excessive flaking and inflammation can clog hair follicles, hindering the growth of new hair. Additionally, persistent itching and scratching can damage hair follicles, leading to weakened hair and increased hair loss over time.

Ultimately, if dandruff goes unheeded, it can contribute to hair loss. Continuous inflammation, irritation, and follicle blockage can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to thinning hair and eventual hair loss. It's essential to address dandruff promptly through proper scalp care, herbal shampoos, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain scalp health and prevent further hair loss.

Grey Hair

Grey hair in teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged individuals can result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Genetics play a significant role, as premature greying often runs in families. Stress, poor diet, hormonal imbalances, smoking, and vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to premature greying. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases may accelerate the greying process.

Modern lifestyles characterized by high stress levels, pollution, unhealthy diets, and exposure to chemicals in hair care products may contribute to the increasing prevalence of premature greying. Environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation can also damage hair follicles and accelerate greying.

Premature greying can negatively impact confidence regardless of age or gender. Teenagers and young adults may feel self-conscious about standing out from their peers, while middle-aged individuals may associate grey hair with aging, affecting their self-esteem and perceived attractiveness.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), premature greying is often attributed to Kidney and Liver imbalances, which affect the production and circulation of Blood and Qi (vital energy) to the hair follicles. TCM herbs such as He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) are commonly used to treat grey hair. He Shou Wu nourishes the Kidney and Liver, tonifies Blood, and promotes hair growth. It contains compounds that stimulate melanin production, restoring hair color.

He Shou Wu works by replenishing Jing, the essence of life associated with Kidney energy in TCM. By tonifying Kidney and Liver energies, He Shou Wu addresses the root cause of premature greying, promoting healthy hair growth and restoring natural hair color.

Other TCM herbs used for grey hair treatment include Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), Nu Zhen Zi (Ligustrum lucidum), and Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis). These herbs nourish Blood, tonify Yin and Yang energies, and promote circulation to the scalp, supporting overall hair health and color restoration.

By addressing imbalances in the body's energy systems and nourishing the scalp and hair follicles, TCM herbs offer a holistic approach to treating premature greying and promoting healthy, vibrant hair at any age.

Dry Scalp

Dry scalp can arise from various factors, including environmental conditions, improper hair care routines, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms of dry scalp include itching, flakiness, tightness, and sometimes redness or inflammation.

Negatively affecting the scalp and hair follicles, dry scalp leads to irritation and discomfort. It disrupts the scalp's natural moisture balance, causing it to become dry and flaky. This can lead to inflammation and sensitivity, making the scalp more prone to irritation and itching. Dry scalp also compromises the health of hair follicles, potentially leading to weakened hair strands and increased hair shedding.

The quality of the hair is significantly affected by dry scalp. Hair may become brittle, dull, and prone to breakage. Dryness can also affect the elasticity and texture of the hair, making it difficult to style and manage.

If left unheeded, dry scalp can worsen and lead to more severe scalp conditions such as scalp eczema or psoriasis. Chronic dryness and inflammation can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to thinning hair and eventual hair loss.

Dry scalp directly affects new hair growth by creating an unhealthy environment for hair follicles. Dryness and inflammation can impede blood circulation to the scalp, limiting the delivery of nutrients essential for hair growth. Additionally, dry scalp may cause hair follicles to become dormant or damaged, resulting in stunted hair growth and increased hair shedding.

To address dry scalp, it's essential to establish a proper hair care routine, including regular shampooing with a moisturizing or hydrating shampoo, avoiding harsh hair products and heat styling tools, and maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle. Consulting with a experienced Hair Consultant can help identify the underlying causes of dry scalp and develop an effective treatment plan to restore scalp health and prevent further hair loss.