Thursday, August 28, 2014

Hair & Scalp and Your Health 

There are many medical conditions and prescriptions that can affect our hair, but sometimes what someone might think is a problem, could just be that they need a little help taking care of their hair and/or scalp.

Shedding
Some experts estimate that we may shed a hundred or more hairs a day. Usually this is nothing to be concerned about and it usually does not mean that we are going bald. About 90% of our hair follicles are producing hair at any given time, while the other 10% are in a resting phase. The hair falls out after a few months but then it is normally replaced by new hair, and then the cycle starts all over again. However, certain shocks to our system such as surgery, childbirth, medications, diets, severe stress, and thyroid problems, can push more hair into resting than normal. After a few months of this, people may notice that their hair is falling out and thinning more than it should. This is a condition called “Telogen Effluvium” which is sometimes described as hair "coming out in handfuls." In most cases, new hair will start to grow back to replace the hair that has been lost, but not always. This is when a person should seek a consultation with a trained professional to see what can be done to get that hair to grow back before it becomes a problem

Dandruff
Dandruff appears to be messy and sometimes embarrassing and bothersome to people, but it isn’t contagious and normally isn’t a cause for alarm. There are many theories about how people get it including an overgrowth of a fungus and from risk factors such as oily skin, stress, obesity, cold and dry weather, and Eczema or Psoriasis. To help fight dandruff, try using an anti-dandruff shampoo such as “Mint BlueShampoo” from New England Associates®. If the dandruff flakes are greasy and yellow, it may be from an inflammatory skin condition called “Seborrheic Dermatitis”, which can occur where there are lots of oil glands such as the scalp and the face. Seborrheic Dermatitis can be indicative of a medical condition but it is treated the same as dandruff, although more severe cases may need HairStart® Dexpanthenol™ or a prescription medication. If it seems that there may be some hair loss or shedding occurring from dandruff, contact the hair experts at New England Associates for a free hair and scalp examination to be sure that there isn’t a problem.

Alopecia Areata
“Alopecia Areata” is when someone’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out. This sometimes happens suddenly. Most sufferers will have one or two bald patches, but in some cases all of their body hair falls out. Alopecia Areata isn't harmful or contagious, but it can be very tough to deal with emotionally. Hair may grow back on its own and there are treatments which may help it grow back more quickly. Some people may experience Alopecia Areata more than just once.

Traction Alopecia
Pulling hair too tight with ponytails, braids, cornrows, etc., can damage hair follicles and cause hair to break or fall out. This is known as “Traction Alopecia”. Some hair extensions can also cause it because of the extra weight pulling on existing hair. A different hairstyle can cause less pulling and may let hair grow back, but pulling on hair for a long time can lead to permanent hair loss which can lead to emotional concerns.The hair loss professionals at New England Associates® can assess any damage and provide options to overcome it.

Too Much Styling Hurts Hair
Blow drying, using a flat iron, coloring, bleaching, and over-brushing can all cause damage to the cuticle (the outer layer) of our hair. Although, it doesn't cause any permanent health damage, when the inner core of hair is exposed hair becomes dry and dull.

Premature Gray Hair
Gray hair isn't always related to aging. People under 40 years old who get gray hair probably have it running in their family, although medical conditions such as Anemia, thyroid issues, certain vitamin deficiencies and Vitiligo can cause premature graying. A common solution is to highlight or color hair to cover the gray, but some people are sensitive to such chemicals leading to itching and burning on the scalp, and too much of the chemicals can have the same effects as over styling hair.

Female Hair Loss
Hair loss in women may include thinning hair all over the head, but is usually most common on top of the head. Contrary to some beliefs, longer hair won't necessarily put a strain on the roots of the hair and cause more to fall out. Shampooing shouldn’t pull hair out either, but people notice more of the hair that was falling out already anyway. Minoxidil and HairStart® Essentials™ are among some of the things that can help hair growth and slow the thinning. You can read more facts about women’s hair loss here.

Male Hair Loss
Most hair loss in men is caused through genetics but there are many other causes as well. So-called “Male-Pattern Baldness” often starts with receding hair at the temples, then on the crown leaving a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair around the sides of the head. Medications to slow typical hair loss in men include Minoxidil and HairStart® Essentials™, which is an herbal alternative to Propecia (finasteride). You can read more facts about men’s hair loss here.

Sun Damage
Too much sun can cause hair to be brittle and split easily. When a person has fine or thinning hair, there is more risk of a sunburn on the scalp (and that can be quite painful!).Here are some tips to help keep hair healthy in the sun and to help minimize summer hair loss.

Hairand Heart-Healthy Diet
Hair needs protein and iron to stay healthy.You can help keep your hair shiny by eating things like salmon and walnuts for omega-3 fatty acids, Brazil nuts for selenium, oysters and cashews for zinc, and spinach and carrots for vitamin A (but not too much vitamin A because that can promote hair loss in some cases). All of these foods help maintain good scalp and hair health and they are also good for your heart. Very low-calorie diets can be bad for hair because they lack sufficient nutrients and can leave hair dull and limp, as well as stunt hair growth or even cause hair loss. HairStart® Vitamin Plus Conditioning Treatment and HairStart® vitamins can help restore nutrients to the hair, especially when used under the direction of the professionals at New England Associates®,who can help identify problems and offer solutions.

Scalp Massage
There's no medical proof that a scalp massage will affect hair loss or improve any scalp conditions, but it can help to relieve stress and tension because the scalp is covered with nerve endings that make it sensitive to touch. Scalp massages may also trigger the release of “feel-good hormones” like dopamine and serotonin.

If you are interested in discussing more with an expert, contact New England Associates® today. At New England Associates®, how you feel about your hair loss and making the right choice to solve it, matters. We encourage you to take the time and review the possibilities and come in for a no cost, no obligation private hair loss consultation.

Keep in mind, if you’re experiencing symptoms associated hair loss, you should not diagnose yourself. The best thing to do is contact an expert who has been specifically trained in hair loss. The professionals at New England Associates® will provide a physical examination of your hair and scalp to identify the cause of your symptoms and help you review your options and solutions.

Look as Good as You Feel!™
Make New England Associates® Your First Step to a Better Looking Future!™
Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants, and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair.



Research from WebMD

Tips for Removing Gum without Cutting Hair


If chewing gum gets stuck in your hair or in your child’s hair, there is no need to worry about cutting any hair off! Simply follow these steps and you should be fine:

  1. Get some creamy peanut butter or a vegetable oil such as olive oil (vegetable oil is best for removing gum from eyebrows or eyelashes).
  2. Cover the gum completely with the peanut butter or the oil. You can use your fingers or an old toothbrush.
  3. Wait a few minutes for the gum to become stiff and less sticky.
  4. Remove the gum from the hair.
  5. Wash the hair to eliminate the food odors.

If you have already cut off some hair and find that it has grown back abnormally, you can see a hair expert at New England Associates® to be sure that there is no long-term damage and to find out what can be done in case there is a problem. The professionals at New England Associates® will correctly identify the reason for your symptoms and help you review your options and solutions.


Look as Good as You Feel!™
Make New England Associates® Your First Step to a Better Looking Future!™



Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants, and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair.


References: American Academy of Dermatology

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Summer Hair Loss


Do you notice more hair falling out this summer? Hair loss in summer is quite common but it can often be controlled if cared for properly. Here are some things that you can try to help minimize summer hair loss:

• Do not expose your scalp to too much harsh sunlight. A loosely-wrapped scarf can be one of the best ways to help keep some damaging UV rays away. While it isn't a good idea to wear tight-fitting hats because they can lead to poor blood circulation which deprives hair of proper nutrition, loose clean hats may not be bad in moderation.

• Drink plenty of water. People tend to become dehydrated quickly during the summer. When water is absorbed and properly circulated throughout the body and scalp, it helps keep hair follicles moist and flexible, improving texture of the hair. Water also flushes toxins out of the body which can lead to problems with hair.

• Consider your diet. A healthy diet is essential for hair growth because hair needs protein, calcium and minerals. Certain nuts can help promote hair growth, while green leafy vegetables can help promote thicker hair.

• Limit chemical-use on your hair and use top quality hair care items that are rich in nutrition.

• After swimming in a pool, make sure to shampoo your hair as soon as possible to remove any chlorine residue because chlorine is extremely damaging to the hair and scalp.

• Use a wide-toothed comb. Tight brushes can pull your hair too hard.

• Warm oil massages a few times a week work as natural conditioners to help the roots of your hair become stronger which can prevent some hair loss. Among the best oils to use are coconut oil, almond oil and olive oil.

If you feel that your hair shedding may be too much or may be abnormal, you can see a hair expert at New England Associates® and have a free examination of your hair and scalp to be sure that there is no damage and to find out what can be done in case there is a problem. The professionals at New England Associates® will correctly identify the reason for your symptoms and help you review your options and solutions.
Look as Good as You Feel!™


Make New England Associates® Your First Step to a Better Looking Future!™

Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants, and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair.

Friday, August 8, 2014

Hair Loss Treatments for Men


            New England Associates® has been in business since 1982 helping men and women with their hair loss needs. At NEA there are a few different hair loss treatment options for men and women you can choose from. For the men, we offer Follicular Unit Hair Transplants as well as Non-Surgical Hair Grafting and Laser Hair Therapy.


           Each procedure is effective in its own way. A Follicular Unit Hair Transplant is a great surgical option that may be the most effective option for you if it is performed by a trusted surgeon.


            If you prefer a non-surgical option then you may be interested in trying Non-Surgical Hair Grafting. Utilizing your growing hair, hair grafting is a great alternative to thinning hair. With New England Associates' non-surgical Hair Over Time™, very subtle changes are made during each visit until you eventually have the hair you desire, without dramatic changes in your appearance. What a great hair restoration option! Hair Over Time™ is only available at New England Associates.


            Another hair loss treatment option is Laser Hair Therapy. Laser Hair Therapy bathes your hair root with a nourishing light and is designed to energize your hair. The hair laser at NEA has 135 laser diodes, more than any other clinical laser in New England that we know of! 


With all of the hair loss solutions all in one place, why not call New England Associates® for your FREE hair loss consultation to find out which treatment option is right for you.


“Look as Good as You Feel!”
Call New England Associates® today. Make New England Associates® Your First Step To A Better Looking Future!
Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair. 

Friday, August 1, 2014

Hair Loss in New Mothers


A lot of new mothers notice some hair loss after having their baby. This is normal and it may not be a permanent condition. It may be a case of shedding caused by lowered estrogen levels and sometimes does not require anything to fix it. Shedding is often at its worst about four months after giving birth. If it lasts longer than that or if it becomes excessive, a hair loss specialist should be consulted with to be sure there will not be any long-term effects which may become more difficult to solve as time passes by. Also, because hair loss can be the result of many factors, it's important to be sure of what is causing the loss.

Here are some tips that can help your hair look a little fuller for those first few months after childbirth:

  • Use a volumizing shampoo that contains ingredients such as protein which coats the hair and makes it appear fuller.
  • Avoid shampoos labeled “conditioning shampoo” as they may contain heavy conditioners that weigh down the hair.
  • Avoid conditioners labeled “intensive conditioners” because these too are heavy on the hair.
  • Use conditioners for "fine" hair because these are lighter on the hair.
  • Use conditioner primarily on the ends of your hair to keep from weighing it down.

Finding the best shampoo and conditioner for you is often going to be trial and error. At New England Associates®, we have created a line of such products based on our 32+ years of experience in helping people with their hair. Shop for our products at http://newenglandassociates.com/cubecart/search.html?_a=category&search%5Bkeywords%5D=conditioner+shampoo&sort%5Bprice%5D=ASC&page=all.


In addition to trying different shampoos and conditioners, you can also try a new hairstyle which can help make your hair look a little fuller. Many new mothers prefer short hair because a shorter style can make hair appear fuller and it can be easier to manage after having a baby. An experienced hair stylist can tell you what hairstyles may work for you or you can contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our stylists who specialize in thinning hair.


Keep in mind, if you’re experiencing hair loss, never diagnose yourself. The best thing you can do is see a hair expert. If you’re interested in discussing more of this with an expert, contact New England Associates® today. At New England Associates®, how you feel about your hair loss and making the right choice to solve it matters. We encourage you to take the time and review your options then come in for a no cost, no obligation private hair loss consultation.


Look as Good as You Feel!™
Make New England Associates® Your First Step to a Better Looking Future!™
Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants, and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair.



References: American Academy of Dermatology.