Is your child experiencing hair loss? Now is the right time to begin treatment to help eliminate the problem. The causes of hair loss in children and adolescents are many. A specialist at OT.CO Clinic will take a holistic approach to your child’s case, aiming not only to address the causes of hair loss but also to provide effective treatment. The problem should not be ignored, as it will worsen over time and may significantly affect the child’s mental well-being. Peer groups can often be harsh, leading to disrupted relationships and a lack of empathy.
Causes of hair loss in children
Excessive hair loss can even occur in children. Alopecia may affect a specific area or the entire body. In some cases, hair loss in children is linked to genetics or may be acquired as a result of illnesses that developed during the child’s life. For example, weakened hair can appear as a result of scalp fungal infections.
Experiencing severe stress or vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to hair weakness and loss. Children may also suffer from alopecia areata, which is caused by an unstable immune system. The body attacks its own hair follicles, weakening them and delaying hair growth. Everyday styling, such as braiding or tight hairstyles, can significantly weaken hair follicles.
Causes of hair loss in teenagers
More and more teenagers in puberty are seeking help at OT.CO Clinic. Hormonal changes can weaken the body and lead to hair loss. Another common cause is the use of various medications by young people, particularly antibiotics and other strong substances such as hormonal or contraceptive drugs.
Chronic stress and improper hair care also weaken hair follicles. Hair loss in adolescents may also have genetic origins or be linked to coexisting medical conditions. Lifestyle factors, such as insufficient sleep, can weaken the body. An improper diet — eating sweets and fast food — may contribute to excessive hair loss, just like restrictive diets aimed at weight reduction.
Diagnosis of hair loss and effective treatment
Hair loss in children should not be underestimated, as every disorder has its cause. Treatment at our clinic begins with identifying that cause. Our specialist may order additional tests, such as hormone levels, and conduct a thorough interview regarding the child’s lifestyle, eating habits, and medical history (both personal and family). Based on this, the doctor can determine whether the issue has a deeper root or is simply a response to certain behaviors and habits.
The doctor may also perform trichoscopy, which allows for an assessment of hair structure and a closer look at the hair follicles.
Treatment of hair loss in children and adolescents
Treatment of alopecia varies depending on the cause of the problem. In some cases, treating the underlying disease — for example, scalp ringworm — may resolve the issue. In cases of hormonal imbalance, the doctor will regulate hormone levels. For alopecia areata, topical ointments or creams may be prescribed. Treatment may also include injections of anti-inflammatory agents directly into the scalp.
Minoxidil may also be helpful, as it stimulates hair follicles. Throughout therapy, parental and peer support plays a crucial role. At our clinic, the doctor will ensure a comprehensive approach to solving the problem.
Hair transplant in children and adolescents
A hair transplant involves transferring the patient’s own follicles from one area of the body to another. Using the patient’s own material eliminates the risk of rejection or allergic reaction. Our clinic offers FUE hair transplantation, which involves harvesting individual follicles with a fine metal punch that leaves no scars. Our specialist selects the highest-quality follicles and places them in the recipient area. The success of the procedure largely depends on the doctor’s expertise.
Who is a candidate for a hair transplant? The procedure is recommended for patients suffering from alopecia or thinning hair. Those experiencing discomfort due to hair loss can come to our clinic. The method is minimally invasive, making it suitable even for young patients.
Is the procedure repeatable? In most cases, one session is sufficient to transplant a large number of follicles. In patients with advanced alopecia, a single procedure may not be enough. Transplanted follicles (provided proper care is maintained) will grow as expected.
The results are often spectacular! The regrowing follicles will be strong, as they are carefully selected by the doctor. Results can typically be evaluated after six months during a follow-up visit. At that time, the doctor will assess the condition of the transplanted follicles and, if necessary, recommend additional care.
The procedure should not be performed in patients with blood clotting disorders. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also not suitable candidates. During the initial consultation, the doctor will review the patient’s overall health and decide on eligibility.
How to prepare for the procedure? The patient should complete the tests ordered by the doctor to assess their current health. Several weeks before surgery, blood-thinning medications should be avoided. On the day of the procedure, the patient should not drink coffee and should eat only a light breakfast. It is advisable to bring a hoodie or a loose hat to protect the scalp from external factors after leaving the clinic. After the procedure, the patient must carefully follow the doctor’s recommendations.
