Hair is a symbol of seduction, good health, and strength. We have between 80,000 and 160,000 hairs that renew every 3 to 5 years. We lose 50 to 100 hairs per day. When this physiological loss increases and is not compensated by regrowth, we speak of alopecia.
Alopecia, whether in women or men, is a common hair issue that often impacts quality of life. The most common form is androgenetic alopecia in women and androgenetic alopecia in men. This type of hair loss is mainly caused by hormonal and genetic factors.
To effectively reduce hair loss over time, treatments have been developed to complement possible medication such as Minoxidil and Finasteride. PRP for hair, LED for hair, and hair mesotherapy are methods that improve hair density and stimulate regrowth.
The hair cycle consists of three phases.
During a dermatological examination of the scalp, the analysis of these phases is important to identify a potential cause.
Alopecia may be acute (lasting less than three months) or chronic (lasting more than three months), diffuse or localized.
Causes of acute alopecia include :
Causes of chronic alopecia include :
The most common cause of alopecia is androgenetic alopecia.
Some forms of contraception have beneficial effects on hair, while others weaken it and may cause alopecia.
Hormones are important for the health of the hair. They influence shine, strength, and the tendency to become dry and dull. Hormonal fluctuations can cause hormonal hair loss.
Hormonal contraception has a direct impact on hair appearance. The composition and dosage of hormones depend on the type of pill. That is why some estrogen-progestin pills improve hair quality, while progestin-only pills can lead to deterioration.
Alopecia may be hereditary. The most common form is androgenetic alopecia, which primarily affects men. Contrary to popular belief, it is not only linked to aging and can appear as early as age 20. In men, this type of alopecia generally begins with hair loss at the frontal hairline and temples.
The hereditary factor plays a major role in androgenetic alopecia. However, hormones — especially androgens — are also involved. Androgen receptors in the hair follicle’s dermal papilla disrupt the hair cycle : hair growth accelerates and hairs become increasingly thin before falling out permanently.
Hair loss during menopause is mainly due to hormonal changes that occur during this period. At menopause, levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease, disrupting hormonal balance.
The drop in female hormones causes a relative increase in androgens — male hormones — which can affect hair follicles.
Androgens, in fact, reduce follicle size, slow hair growth, and accelerate shedding.
Other factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medications can also contribute to hair loss during menopause.
Hair loss after pregnancy, also called postpartum hair loss, is a common phenomenon. Around one third of women may be affected. This type of hair loss is hormonal, triggered by the hormonal changes that occur after childbirth.
During pregnancy, future mothers often notice an improvement in hair quality — it becomes shinier, silkier, and grows more under the effect of increased estrogen levels.
After delivery, the rapid drop in this hormone causes hair loss, which may appear dramatic and feel like losing handfuls of hair.
Several other factors can worsen postpartum hair loss : rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies (especially iron), stress, and fatigue.
Scarring alopecia is a localized form of alopecia that, unfortunately, is permanent.
It can be caused by inflammation of the scalp or by trauma, burns, or scalp radiotherapy.
This type of hair loss, also known as postpartum telogen effluvium, is caused by intense physical or emotional stress.
During stressful periods, a larger percentage of hairs prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen) and fall out after a few months.
The phenomenon is often temporary and reversible once the stress factor is removed.
Traction alopecia is a type of alopecia caused by repeated and excessive tension on the hair follicles.
It is often the result of tight hairstyles such as braids, buns, or ponytails.
This constant tension damages the follicles, leading to progressive hair loss.
The first signs of traction alopecia are hair thinning and receding of the frontal hairline.
To prevent and treat this condition, it is recommended to reduce hair tension by avoiding tight hairstyles.
The most common cause of alopecia is androgenetic alopecia of genetic origin, where hair loss is due to the influence of androgens.
This type of alopecia can affect men as early as age 18 and women from their thirties.
We refer to male pattern alopecia and female pattern alopecia.
Two scales are used to classify the progression of the condition : the Hamilton scale for men and the Ludwig scale for women.
Hair loss in women and hair loss in men are frequent reasons for consultation.
Although there are treatments that can reduce hair loss in the long term, regrowth is unpredictable and never spectacular.
Some medical techniques, used alone or in combination, allow patients to regain hair that is denser, stronger, and healthier.
The only possible prevention is treating the underlying cause. However, certain habits can improve hair health.
Before any treatment, it is necessary to identify and treat any potential cause of alopecia. The reference aesthetic treatment is represented by PRP injections.
No preparation is necessary. Before the treatment, Dr Romano carries out an analysis of the scalp to identify the most affected and fragile areas. However, the entire scalp will be treated.
A blood sample is taken and the tube is centrifuged for six minutes to separate the plasma containing platelet growth factors (PRP) from the other components.
The PRP is collected and injected into the scalp using a mesotherapy technique, using a gun, which makes the session painless.
There are no after-effects and normal activities can be resumed immediately. It is recommended not to take anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids in the 48 hours following the session.
For the initial treatment, three sessions spaced three months apart are needed. One annual maintenance session should follow.
Hair mesotherapy involves injecting vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other essential nutrients directly into the scalp. These active ingredients stimulate the hair follicles, improving local blood circulation and promoting cell regeneration.
Mesotherapy also helps slow hair loss by strengthening the follicles and prolonging their growth phase.
Sessions are well tolerated when performed with an injection gun. Manual injections (without a gun) are painful and less effective.
After the treatment, shampooing should be avoided until the next day, and sweating (intensive exercise) of the scalp should be avoided on the same day.
The protocol includes an intensive phase and a maintenance phase.
Intensive phase : six sessions every two weeks, followed by three sessions one month apart.
Maintenance phase : one session every three to six months.
LED therapy (light-emitting diodes) is an innovative and non-invasive technique for treating alopecia, with promising results.
This method uses specific wavelengths to stimulate hair follicles and encourage hair regrowth.
LED light improves blood circulation, increasing the supply of essential nutrients to the hair follicles. It also helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors often associated with hair loss.
LED treatment is painless and requires no downtime.
This treatment can be done alone or in combination with mesotherapy and PRP sessions.
Around twenty sessions are necessary.
Results are visible three months after the start of treatment due to the long hair cycle.
Their extent varies and depends on individual sensitivity.
LED for hair
Hair mesotherapy
PRP for hair (Platelet Rich Plasma)
| Type of consultation | Generally practiced rates |
|---|---|
|
PRP injections
|
600 CHF per session |
|
Hair mesotherapy |
200 CHF per session |
Patients report a noticeable improvement in hair density and quality, and an increase in self-confidence.
They find these treatments accessible because they are non-invasive and require no recovery time.
The combination of these techniques is considered particularly effective.
Patients highlight the importance of consistency to achieve optimal results.
However, as with any medical treatment, results may vary from person to person — it is essential to consult a specialist for personalized care.
The best treatment will depend on the cause of the alopecia, its severity and the patient's gender. A consultation with a specialist will determine the most appropriate treatment.
Yes, hair can grow back after the age of 60, although the density and speed of regrowth are reduced. Treatments such as PRP, mesotherapy and LED therapy stimulate regrowth.
For women, products containing Minoxidil are often recommended. Natural solutions such as essential oils and food supplements can also help.
Yes, hair can grow back after alopecia, especially if it is treated quickly and effectively, but there can be no regrowth in the case of scarring alopecia.
Plants such as saw palmetto are sometimes used as natural alternatives to minoxidil to slow down hair loss. Minoxidil is still more effective than a plant.
Androgenetic alopecia can be curbed by treatments such as Minoxidil, Finasteride (in men), LED therapy, mesotherapy and PRP. A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet are also important.
Cosmetic solutions such as hair powders, wigs, hair extensions or specific hairstyles can be used.
Some forms of alopecia, such as scarring, are irreversible. However, other types, such as androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata, can be treated.
Hair loss during the menopause can be slowed by hormone treatments, dietary supplements rich in vitamins and minerals, and topical treatments such as Minoxidil.
To curb alopecia, you need to follow a suitable treatment: Minoxidil, PRP and mesotherapy. A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and stress reduction are also beneficial.
Yes, Minoxidil is clinically proven to be effective in treating hair loss and stimulating hair regrowth.
Possible side effects of Minoxidil include scalp irritation, itching, the appearance of hair on the face and hands and, rarely, palpitations.
Rosemary essential oil is renowned for its stimulating properties on hair regrowth. Peppermint essential oil and lavender oil are also beneficial.
To thicken fine hair at the menopause, mesotherapy, PRP and Minoxidil are effective. A diet rich in proteins and vitamins is recommended.
A blood test for hair loss should include iron, ferritin, vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, thyroid hormones and androgens.
When daily hair loss exceeds physiological loss, i.e. 50-100 hairs a day, it's time to consult a doctor. Signs that may cause concern include loss of hair density, bald patches, itching or irritation of the scalp.
Certain habits are beneficial for the scalp, but they cannot treat alopecia: scalp massages, application of essential oils to the scalp, food supplements and a healthy diet.
Diet: foods rich in protein, vitamins (biotin, vitamins A, C, D, E) and minerals (iron, zinc, selenium) and good hydration.
Hair care: use gentle hair care products that contain no sulphates, parabens or silicones. Avoid excessive heat (hairdryers, straightening irons) and tight hairstyles.
Medical treatments if prescribed: Minoxidil and Finasteride.
Natural remedies: essential oils such as rosemary oil.
Food supplements containing biotin and vitamins.
PRP hair, mesotherapy hair, LED.
Stress management.
The services described on this website apply to Swiss territory; there are differences between countries.
Contact
Dr Valeria Romano
Pl. du Molard 5, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland
Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 6pm
Dr Valeria Romano - All rights reserved.
