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A Full Guide on Hypotrichosis

Hypotrichosis is a rare condition that causes you to have very little or no hair growth in areas where there would normally be hair growth. In this article, you will read more about what it is, what the symptoms are, what causes this condition and what possible treatments there may be.

A Better Understanding of Hypotrichosis

In humans, the areas affected by Hypotrichosis are usually on the head. This can include your hair, eyebrows and even your lashes on your eyelids. Those areas that are affected by it can also be areas that are quite rough and dry to the touch. Any hair growth that does occur in the area affected by Hypotrichosis, will be very little and the hairs will remain short and frail and susceptible to breakage.

The few hairs that can be found in the areas that are affected by hypotrichosis, tend to be extremely frail and hair breakage in these areas are common. Hair can be very tightly curled in these areas as well and have lighter shades of colour than those hairs in the surrounding areas.

This condition can occur at any age, however, most individuals that do suffer from hypotrichosis, have had it since infancy as the condition is determined by your genetic makeup. The symptoms usually become clearer when the individual is older than two but it is possible to determine whether or not the individual suffers from it while in the womb, with modern genetic testing.

There is, however, no known cure for Hypotrichosis and the condition tends to be chronic. Some individuals undergo hair transplantation surgery or wear artificial hair in order to feel more comfortable and confident while living with this condition. Each person has their own unique way of dealing with the psychological factors that come with it.

Symptoms Of Hypotrichosis

There are multiple markers that can indicate whether or not a person suffering from it. Due to the rarity of the condition, there are other factors that can also cause the body to display the same symptoms as those found in Hypotrichosis, so it is advisable to book a consultation with an expert for an accurate and thorough diagnosis.

Symptoms of Hypotrichosis include the following:

  • Very sparse hairs in areas where there is normally an abundance of hair, for example, on the scalp.
  • Frail hairs that are easily broken
  • Hair tends to be coarse
  • The area affected is dry and rough to the touch
  • Hair tends to be curly and could even be a few shades lighter than any other hair in surrounding areas.
  • Eyebrows and eyelashes are thin and frail

Hypotrichosis Explained​

The Challenges When Living With Hypotrichosis

Hair plays a vital role in our lives. It has an effect on our physical appearance, and our neurological levels and it also affects our lives in a psychological manner. The hair on our bodies has multiple functions and purposes. Hair allows protection for our skin from the environment that we are moving and living in. The hair on our skin plays the following roles in our lives:

  • It helps prevent infection from gaining a foothold within our skin or for bacteria from using our skin as a breeding ground.
  • Protection from skin diseases
  • The nerve root within the hair follicle helps you detect danger and can trigger your flight or fight response.
  • It helps our bodies to maintain a constant body temperature as it can function as an insulator for the body, and when it is warm, the hair follicle pores open up to release sweat to cool down.

Possible Treatment For Hypotrichosis

Those that are affected by Hypotrichosis often have very little hope of ever living a life where this condition does not hold a shadow over them. There is no known cure currently for Hypotrichosis but, due to modern science and advancement in our technology and understanding of skin and hair, there is now a possible solution for those living with Hypotrichosis.

Hair transplantations have taken the world by storm with their solutions to many different conditions that are faced by many individuals across the globe. Many of those that suffer from Hypotrichosis have gone for hair transplantations as it allows them the opportunity of living a normal, confident life.

Those that have gone for hair transplantations because they suffer from Hypotrichosis experience the following changes in their lives:

  • They are more confident
  • They no longer feel isolated from others because of a condition they have no control over
  • Their skin is healthier, smooth and pleasant to the touch
  • Hair is soft, dense and full of volume
  • There body temperature is more constant
  • There is no need for the high maintenance skin routine to prevent skin infections

Individuals who have gone for hair transplantation surgery are extremely pleased with their results and never knew what a great impact it would have on their lives. Should you wish to know more about our hair transplantation services, then please contact us or book a consultation online.

 

Frequently Asked Questions


Are Alopecia and Hypotrichosis the same thing?

No, it is not the same thing. If you suffer from Alopecia, you will have no hair in certain areas of your body where hair can usually be found. Hypotrichosis is when you suffer from very limited hair growth.

Can I prevent Hypotrichosis in any way?

Unfortunately, there is no known way yet to prevent it from affecting you or your offspring. The condition is genetic and passed on between generations.

Can a healthy lifestyle cure my Hypotrichosis?

There is currently no cure for Hypotrichosis. A healthy lifestyle is however recommended if you should suffer from Hypotrichosis, as it will aid your immune system in fighting any and all infections that might develop because of the condition.

What does rare mean in terms of Hypotrichosis? 

The current estimate of individuals that have it is 1 in every 10,000 people.

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Jorn
Jorn
Jorn is a co-founder of IdealofMeD - the #1 hair transplant, dental and beauty treatment destination in Turkey.

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