How does hair growth stimulation work?
There are various methods to stimulate hair growth. Taking supplements that provide essential vitamins and minerals is one approach, while men often find that regular use of finasteride effectively halts hair loss. However, like any medicine, finasteride may have side effects, which we can discuss in detail in a one-to-one consultation at our practice by Lake Zurich.
Another established method is the consistent application of Minoxidil, which can help prevent further hair loss.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections are a highly effective treatment. This method involves preparing the body’s own blood, isolating the valuable blood components, and injecting them into areas affected by hair loss. This “autologous blood therapy” strengthens hair roots and stimulates growth.
For patients who do not respond to these treatments, hair transplantation remains an option. We can refer you to specialist colleagues in Switzerland who focus on this method for addressing thinning hair or gaps in hair.
In addition to growth factors and cytokines, the body’s own blood plasma contains a high concentration of platelets and micronutrients. Treatment using this plasma can effectively slow down or even stop hair loss in both men and women. The plasma concentrate supports healthy hair growth on the head by stimulating the hair follicles to renew cells and by providing essential nutrients. We inject the platelet-rich plasma directly into the scalp to ensure targeted action.
This method of harvesting the patient’s own blood plasma for aesthetic treatment purposes is also known as autologous blood therapy, and it is also used in a procedure known as a “vampire facial”.
From a specialist medical perspective, the treatment can be highly effective for many individuals, but some may see only limited benefits. Combining this treatment with a diet rich in minerals and vitamins is always recommended. However, it is not possible to predict how successful the treatment will be in advance.
The standard treatment protocol for PRP treatment involves at least four sessions, spaced three to five weeks apart. After evaluating the initial results with you, we typically recommend maintenance treatments every three months to achieve lasting effects.
Why does hair loss happen?
There are many reasons for hair loss. One of the most common causes in both men an women is genetic predisposition, such as in the case of androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss). Genetics play a decisive role in this condition.
Hormonal changes or fluctuations can also lead to hair loss. In men, an excess of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) often causes hair loss, while women may experience hair loss due to hormone fluctuations during pregnancy, after childbirth, or during menopause. Evaluating hormone levels is highly recommended as a first step in diagnosis.
Stress can also disrupt the normal hair cycle, accelerating the transition from the growth phase to the resting phase, which can lead to premature hair loss.
Various diseases, both chronic and acute, along with medical treatments, can result in unexpected hair loss. Thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, or cancer are common culprits. Additionally, the autoimmune condition alopecia areata can cause circular hair loss, while infectious or non-infectious skin diseases, such as fungal infections or lichen planus, can also lead to hair loss.
Medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy also often cause premature hair loss.
An unbalanced diet, poor diet or malnutrition can contribute to hair loss and affect hair structure in the long-term. Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins, can lead to hair loss.
Many medications also cause hair loss as a side effect. There are too many to list them individually, but broadly speaking, they include medications used to treat high blood pressure, depression, heart problems, and arthritis.
Chemical treatments and excessive use of hair products and hair styling, such as frequent dyeing, bleaching, perming, or applying heat, can damage the hair and promote hair loss.
Age-related changes also contribute to decreased hair density and quality as the hair cycle slows and hair follicles may shrink.
Given the diverse causes of hair loss, careful diagnosis is crucial before starting treatment to determine the most effective approach, tailored to the individual’s needs.
What kind of hair loss can you actually counteract effectively?
There are various therapies to treat different forms of hair loss or thinning scalp hair.
For some patients, adjusting their diet and taking targeted nutritional supplements regularly can promote stronger and healthier hair growth. Others may benefit from medication specifically designed to stimulate hair growth. Such medication may be oral or topical,
PRP treatment also provides substantial benefits for many.
What kind of results can be achieved with scalp hair growth stimulation?
My patients often want their “old” hair back. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple, because the ageing process gives us all thinner, lighter, structurally weaker hair. And yet: I can help many people increase the volume and fullness of their hair.
It is very important to have a consultation beforehand so we can discuss the reasons for the changes to your hair together, especially if the hair loss is very noticeable.
Dr Susanne Kristof
SK-AESTHETICS, Rapperswil-Jona
What are the risks and side effects?
The hair loss and growth stimulation therapies we use at SK-AESTHETICS have been extensively tested over many years and generally carry only a minimal risk of side effects.
If you opt for medication, before starting it, we will review any potential side effects or interactions with other treatments you may be having. Some of the solutions we use may make your hair appear greasy. After PRP treatment, you might experience slight swelling or redness in the treated areas, though these effects typically subside quickly. Minor bruising or small bruises at the injection sites can also occur but usually resolve swiftly.
You may feel a slight pressure on your head temporarily. To ensure the best results, avoid saunas, hot baths, sunbathing, or intense heat sources for at least 24 hours after treatment. You can wash your hair or take a shower the day after the procedure. In any case, everything will be explained to you in detail in a consultation at our practice by Lake Zurich.
Trust us, we get it. A full head of healthy-looking hair is so important to so many people. Given the many potential causes of hair loss, I recommend starting with a thorough analysis. For instance, determining hormone levels in women can help identify the appropriate therapy and potentially lead to great results with the right combination of treatments.
If you are experiencing hair loss in areas such as the eyelashes or eyebrows, a medical examination is essential to uncover the underlying causes and address them effectively.
Are hair transplants also available for women?
Yes, there are highly specialised clinics that do this. However, for women, the process is generally more complex than for men because it often requires shaving the entire scalp prior to the hair transplant.
Can the different treatment options be combined?
Yes, and I often recommend this. Sudden hair loss can be very distressing, especially for women. In these cases, I suggest using all available methods to address the issue: for example, applying Minoxidil twice daily, undergoing regular PRP treatments, and taking supplements with vitamins, trace elements, and minerals essential for hair growth.
Can I get back a full head of hair like I used to have?
Our first, most realistic goal will be to halt hair loss. In some cases, combining different treatment approaches can lead to fuller hair.
| Per treatment | CHF 425.00 |
| Package of 4 treatments | CHF 1,600.00 |
