Alopecia and Aging of the Scalp: The causes* A Genetic Cause: Androgenetic alopecia is the primary reason for both female and male hair loss. This condition affects more than half of women over 50 years old and nearly 70% of men. The role of androgens has been well established for a long time. The gene that has an androgen receptor is located on the X chromosome and is indeed one of the genes potentially indicative of alopecia. The genes found on chromosome 20, specifically at 20p 11, are also indicative of a certain prognosis. In men, the increase in the production of 5-alpha-reductase causes a localized rise in dihydrotestosterone levels, which notably contributes to hair weakening. In women, the process remains relatively under-researched; however, the loss of the anti-androgenic action typically performed by estrogens following menopause is often observed.* Environmental Factors :Beyond these hormonal and genetic causes, hair is subjected to a vast number of environmental elements that accelerate their aging. Notably, we can mention the sun, cosmetics, tobacco, manipulation of the scalp, as well as emotional and oxidative stress, among others... The aging of our hair is particularly evident through a decrease in the growth phase, a reduction in the circumference of the hair shaft, whitening, and a drastic decrease in elasticity. * Oxidative stress - primarily genetic cause: Oxidative stress increases this aging by reducing the anagen phase and prematurely triggering the so-called 'catagen' phase, which is characterized by a drop in peri-bulbar vascularization. Additionally, aging is reflected in the decrease in glutathione concentration, the main defense mechanism of the cell against stress in the hair follicle.Alopecia and Aging of the Scalp: How to Act?It is therefore necessary to act on the extrinsic parameters (non-genetic) of alopecia. Indeed, just like the skin on our face, the scalp is affected by aging. Thus, it seems normal to treat and correct it (as much as possible) in the same way we do for the skin: through meso-needling and/or mesotherapy. This process aims to address cellular aging at the level of hair follicles by developing an effective action on the so-called 'environmental' factors of alopecia, particularly oxidative stress, which is the main culprit behind the known phenomena of apoptosis (programmed cell death) and alteration of regular cellular processes leading to poor vascularization of the scalp. Meso-needling is applicable up to stage V in men with noticeable thinning at the vertex and temporal recesses. Indeed, the existence of hair bulbs must remain in order to successfully carry out this treatment.
Alopecia and Aging of the Scalp: The Hair CycleThe hair cycle is divided into three phases: Anagen – Catagen – Telogen. The Anagen phase is the growth stage, which applies to 85% of the hair over an average duration of 3 years. During this period, hair grows by 0.5 - 2 cm each month. The so-called Catagen phase concerns 1% of the hair and lasts for 3 weeks. The so-called Telogen phase represents a resting period followed by shedding. It accounts for 14% of the hair over a duration of 3 months. Therefore, the goal is to prevent the Catagen phase and prolong the Anagen phase.Alopecia and Aging of the Scalp: The Poly-revitalizing SolutionsVery often, classic products do not bear fruit. Then comes the idea of adding a compound of micronutrients and antioxidants that, when combined, helps to prevent the obsolescence of hair follicles and contributes to the improvement of quality and hair regrowth: Vitamins E and C for their antioxidant actions. Glutathione to combat oxidative stress and maintain good microcirculation. The B vitamins required for the perpetuation of the hair follicle and to promote keratin synthesis. Vitamin B3 specifically for its properties allowing good vasodilation. Amino acids and minerals to address deficiencies in the dermis and epidermis. Lastly, hyaluronic acid, for its moisturizing effect and its significant contribution to cellular proliferation and the balance of the dermis.
So what is meso-needling ..? Meso-needling involves absorbing active ingredients through the skin using a roller. This helps to reduce hair loss and increase the vitality of the scalp. Meso-Needling: Testimony of a DermatologistWhat is the benefit of meso-needling? Meso-needling requires the use of a roller to increase the absorption of vital nutrients and antioxidants for hair regrowth. This technique induces 3 effects: 1) First, it enhances the activity of skin cells in the scalp due to the penetration of the needles, thereby stimulating fibroblasts which produce more elastin and collagen. 2) Then, it allows for the creation of micro-channels to improve the absorption of the active ingredients administered. 3) Finally, meso-needling fluidifies the microcirculation of the treated area. Thus, meso-needling is also less painful, therefore less traumatic and less invasive than so-called 'classic' mesotherapy. Because it is performed through multiple injections either by gun or manually. Meso-needling is easier to perform. In what cases have you used it? I have implemented it on two distinct groups of subjects: The first group consists of relatively young patients with limited involvement in the temporal recesses; the second group includes patients presenting authentic androgenetic alopecia of grade III, IV, or even V according to the Hamilton scale. What is the protocol? One session of meso-needling every 2 weeks for 3 months, then once a month. A minimum of 10 sessions should be counted. After 9 months, an assessment is made to determine whether to continue treatment.Based on your own experience, what results can one expect?In my case, the results have been truly satisfactory in all patients. This was illustrated by a increase in capillary density in the temporal recesses. Generally, subjects with localized and early alopecia noticed an improvement in their hair. Subjects with more advanced stages of alopecia were able to observe a clear regrowth of their hair. Meso-needling combined with a nutrient-rich product containing minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. Thanks to this, it brings results both on a preventive and therefore curative level. This technique is a new advancement to stop hair loss and address scalp aging. It enhances the quality of regrowth with increased capillary density. Is maintenance treatment necessary? For cases of androgenetic alopecia, a session every two months yields lasting results. Thus, in cases of early thinning of the temporal recesses, a single session every 3-4 months may suffice.Alopecia and Aging of the Scalp: Our OpinionPaul LORHO (Manager of Centrale Fillers) : Our selection focused on a well-known product in French pharmacies: The Meso Needling from Filorga laboratories. Thus, Filorga, a pioneer in this field, offers a guarantee of quality as all its products are designed by world-renowned experts (doctors, pharmacists, biologists, cosmetologists) gathered within a scientific committee and are manufactured in France. Alopecia - The Roller from the Filorga Pack is the Perfect Tool Equipped with a cylindrical head with 600 ultra-fine needles, mounted on a dozen independent discs. There are two distinct widths of rollers marketed by the Filorga laboratory. For extensive balding areas, the widest size will be used to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. As for the areas scattered with hair, the narrowest roller will allow for precise action, strand by strand. In practice, it is necessary to thoroughly disinfect the skin using chlorhexidine. Only then will the treatment solution be applied directly to the surface of the scalp. Only then should the roller be applied with a light pressure following so-called 'multidirectional' movements. Thus, it is recommended to perform up to 6 passes for each area to be treated. Source: C. Le Bihan – Androgenetic Alopecia New treatment strategies through meso-needling. Information provided by the Laboratories Filorga. |
12 April 2023
