Your Guide to Hair Restoration & Common Hair Regrowth Terms

There are so many reasons to be interested in hair restoration. Thousands of men experience common hair loss-related conditions such as male-pattern baldness each year. Women are also susceptible to symptoms of female hair loss as a result of hormones, stress, or hereditary conditions like female-pattern baldness.

Whether you have a condition like the ones above, are wondering how much hair loss is normal when washing your hair, or are simply looking for ways to grow thicker, healthier locks, it is time to start your journey. Discover the most common hair regrowth terms, as well as which types of hair therapy are best for your personal hair loss goals.

Androgenetic Alopecia

One of the most common forms of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (AA). For men, it is often referred to as male-pattern baldness. When AA occurs, hair loss develops in a characteristic pattern. For men, it usually begins above both temples and proceeds on to form an “M” shape on the head. In women, AA looks a little different. Instead of receding at the hairline, the hair thins all over the scalp. Most women will never experience complete baldness, but it can occur in men.

There are many ways to treat AA, but it should be done as soon as possible. While the condition can cause changes in your appearance, it has also been associated with medical conditions like heart disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and high blood pressure. If you think you may have male pattern baldness or the female form of AA, talk to your primary care physician. While they check that you are in good health, you can discuss your preferred choices for hair loss treatment.

Vellus Hair

In contrast to the terminal hairs that are on your head, vellus hair is the fine hair that you will find on most of your body. If you experience hair loss on your scalp, you probably will still retain the vellus hair that is growing on areas like your arms, legs, and face. When you experience one of the most common causes of hair loss and seek solutions for hair regrowth, your terminal hair may return as vellus hair first.

While it is possible for your hair to transition back to terminal on its own, you may need hair regrowth treatment to replace fine hairs with thicker, more substantial ones. Feel free to consult with your physician about the best options for your condition. In some cases, vellus hair can turn back to terminal hair in a matter of weeks. Other cases will take several months.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

This androgen, or sex hormone, contributes to the development of what is thought of as “male” sex characteristics in the body. While it gives men a deep voice and an increase in muscle mass, it also includes the growth of male body hair. If you have abnormal DHT levels, you are at an increased risk of developing prostate cancer or seeing a change in your body fat distribution. It is also possible that your hair may fall out earlier in your life, or that strands will fall out quicker than they normally would.

In contrast, high DHT levels can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair’s growth cycle. This can cause hair to look thinner and break more easily as it grows out. It is also possible that it will fall out faster than normal, while new hair will take longer to grow in place of old strands and those that have fallen out of your head. Talk to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of low or high DHT. They will review your medical history and talk about your treatment options.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is the medical or therapeutic application of lasers or light-emitting diodes to the surface of the body. Research shows it is effective in reducing symptoms of chronic musculoskeletal pain. It can also be used to decrease inflammation in the body and regrow terminal hair.

These days, LLLT is referred to as photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). It is a technology used to treat hair thinning and loss. It is even an effective option for those who are suffering from male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss. Wearing one of our Capillus® laser therapy caps for just six minutes per day can help you to grow thicker, healthier hair and improve the health of your hair follicles.