Understanding Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and How TCM Can Help

By TLC Medicine  

Everyone experiences the occasional few hair strands on their comb or pillow. However, when those occasional strands turn into clumps, it can cause significant concern. Hair loss is a multifaceted issue that many people grapple with globally. It has a variety of underlying causes, ranging from genetic variables, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, to certain medications.

Common Causes of Hair Loss

Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Androgenetic alopecia: Known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, this typically inherited condition manifests as a receding hairline and bald spots in men, or thinning hair in women.
  • Stress and traumatic events: Physical or emotional stress can stimulate a type of temporary hair loss known as telogen effluvium.
  • Alopecia areata: In this autoimmune disorder, the immune system attacks hair follicles, often resulting in hair loss.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Insufficient intake of proteins, biotin, iron, and other essential vitamins can contribute to hair loss.
  • Postpartum hair loss: This is a normal, temporary phase of hair loss that many women experience after pregnancy due to hormonal changes. However, if you notice significant hair loss that lasts longer than 6 months, it may be due to a different cause.

Traditional Treatments for Hair Loss

Conventional hair loss treatments often include topical treatments like Minoxidil (Rogaine), oral medications such as Finasteride (Propecia), and surgical procedures like hair transplantation. However, these methods can come with side effects, may not be effective for everyone, and can be invasive or costly.

Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and LED Light Therapy for Hair Loss

At TLC Medicine, we offer a comprehensive, holistic approach to treating hair loss that incorporates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, and modern therapies such as LED light therapy.

Acupuncture stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing the hair follicles. By inserting thin needles into strategic points on the body, acupuncture can help balance the energy pathways, or Qi (pronounced “Chee”), and remove blockages that disrupt hair growth.

Chinese Herbal Medicine utilizes natural herbs that are known to restore hair health and correct imbalances in the body that lead to hair loss.

In addition to these, we have incorporated LED light therapy into our treatments. This modern therapy uses low-level light to stimulate follicle cells, promoting hair regrowth. Clinical studies have shown it to be an effective, non-invasive treatment for hair loss.

These combined therapies aim to optimize your overall health, reduce stress, and encourage healthy hair growth by tackling the root causes of hair loss.

How TLC Medicine Can Help

At TLC Medicine, we’re committed to guiding and supporting you on your journey to overall well-being and recovery from hair loss. Our Registered Acupuncturist and TCM Practitioner, Teresa Lau, uses her vast experience to identify the root cause of your symptoms and restore balance to your system.

Whether you’re dealing with postpartum hair loss, chronic hair loss, or experiencing hair thinning, we’re here to help. Reach out to us for a consultation, and let us guide you on your path to healthier hair and overall wellness.

Turn your hair loss around with TLC Medicine – we’re with you at every step of your recovery journey.