The Haunting Effects of Stress on Your Skin: Halloween Edition

As the Halloween season approaches, we’re all too familiar with the spine-tingling excitement and the rush to get costumes and decorations just right. But lurking in the shadows is a sinister visitor that can wreak havoc on your skin – stress. In this Halloween edition blog post, we’ll explore the frightening ways stress can impact your skin and offer practical tips for managing stress while maintaining a healthy complexion throughout the spooky season and into the upcoming holidays.The Scary Connection Between Stress and Skin:
  • Breakouts and Acne: When stress takes hold, it triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which can lead to increased oil production and inflammation in the skin. This, in turn, can result in breakouts and exacerbate existing acne issues.
  • Dryness and Sensitivity: Stress can disrupt the skin’s moisture balance, leaving it dry, flaky, and prone to sensitivity. Dry skin is more susceptible to irritation and redness, making it essential to keep stress in check.
  • Premature Aging: Chronic stress accelerates the aging process. The cortisol released during stressful times can break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin – making you look older than you are.
  • Exacerbation of Skin Conditions: If you already have skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, stress can exacerbate these conditions, leading to more frequent and severe flare-ups.
Tips for Managing Stress and Maintaining Healthy Skin:
  • Self-Care Rituals: Prioritize self-care to alleviate stress. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Taking time for yourself can calm your mind and improve your skin’s overall health.
  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers. Aim for regular exercise to keep stress levels in check and promote healthy blood circulation, which benefits the skin.
  • Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods containing essential fatty acids like omega-3s. Avoid excessive caffeine, sugar, and processed foods that can exacerbate stress and lead to skin issues.
  • Adequate Sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for both stress management and skin health. Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night to allow your skin to regenerate.
  • Skincare Routine: Stick to a consistent skincare routine with gentle, hydrating products suitable for your skin type. Avoid harsh treatments or over-cleansing, which can worsen skin problems when you’re stressed.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin. Drink plenty of water to maintain skin elasticity and help flush toxins from your body.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if stress becomes overwhelming. Talking about your concerns can alleviate emotional burdens and reduce stress-related skin issues.
This Halloween season, as the stress levels rise with party preparations and holiday planning, remember that your skin is a reflection of your overall well-being. By managing stress through self-care, a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support when needed, you can ensure that your skin remains beautiful and healthy not only during Halloween but throughout the entire holiday season. So, take a deep breath, relax, and let your radiant skin be the treat that lasts long after the Halloween tricks are over.
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Scary skincare

Scary Skincare Myths: Debunking Common Halloween Skin Fears 

Halloween is the season for thrills and chills, but your skincare routine shouldn’t be a source of fright. In this blog post, we’re shedding light on some of the most common skincare myths that can be as spine-tingling as any ghost story. While these myths might seem terrifying at first glance, we’re here to debunk them with evidence-based advice to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant throughout the Halloween season and beyond.

Myth #1: “Popping Pimples Makes Them Disappear Faster”

One of the most pervasive skincare myths is the belief that squeezing or popping pimples will make them vanish overnight. In reality, this can lead to inflammation, scarring, and even more breakouts. Picking at your skin can introduce bacteria, causing further infection. Instead, opt for spot treatments containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide and allow the pimple to heal naturally.

Myth #2: “You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days”

The spooky overcast skies on Halloween might tempt you to leave your sunscreen behind, but this is a dangerous myth. UV rays can penetrate clouds, causing skin damage and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Always wear sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, even on cloudy days, to safeguard your skin.

Myth #3: “Natural Ingredients Are Always Safe for Your Skin”

While natural ingredients can be beneficial, not all of them are gentle on the skin. Poison ivy, for instance, is a prime example of a natural substance that can cause severe dermatological issues. Always research and patch-test new natural skincare products, and consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure about their safety.

Myth #4: “Tanning Beds Are Safer Than Sun Exposure”

Some believe that tanning beds provide a safer alternative to sunbathing, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Tanning beds emit intense UV radiation, significantly increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Instead, consider self-tanners or spray tans for a safer, sun-kissed glow.

Myth #5: “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizing”

People with oily skin often skip moisturizers, fearing they’ll exacerbate their oiliness. However, skipping moisturizer can lead to the skin producing even more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin balanced and healthy.

Myth #6: “Acne Is Only a Teenager’s Problem”

Acne doesn’t discriminate by age. It can affect people of all ages, including adults. Hormonal changes, stress, and dietary factors can trigger breakouts at any stage of life. Consult a dermatologist for personalized acne management and treatment options.

Don’t let these skincare myths haunt you this Halloween season. Armed with evidence-based knowledge, you can confidently care for your skin and enjoy the festivities without fear. Remember that consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice is always a smart choice when addressing any skin concerns. By debunking these myths, you can ensure your skin remains beautiful and healthy, no matter the season. Happy Halloween and happy, healthy skin!

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Escape From Eczema

October is National Eczema Awareness Month. Eczema affects a whopping 30 percent of children and 15 percent of adults. So, it’s likely that eczema will affect you or someone you know at some point. But you and your loved ones don’t have to suffer from eczema because it’s treatable. Read on to learn how you can escape from eczema.

What is Eczema

Eczema is a red, itchy rash. It can range from mild to severe. It is not contagious, and you can’t get it from somebody.

Researchers Don’t Know What Causes Eczema. 

Eczema could be the result of an overactive immune system. Researchers think a combination of genetics and environmental factors triggers inflammation. People with eczema might have a gene variation that makes their skin more susceptible to allergens and irritants in the environment.

The Different Types of Eczema

Not all eczema is alike—there are seven different types. They affect different parts of the body and can look different from each other. What they all have in common is that they tend to be inflamed, red, and itchy. The seven different types of eczema include:

  • contact dermatitis
  • atopic dermatitis
  • dyshidrotic
  • neurodermatitis
  • nummular
  • seborrheic dermatitis
  • stasis

The Most Common Form of Eczema

Contact dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It’s a delayed allergic reaction that appears a day or two after the skin is exposed to an irritant. People with sensitive skin do best with scent-free products like soaps and laundry detergents that help them avoid irritation.

How To Treat Eczema Topically

You can treat eczema topically with triamcinolone and hydrocortisone. These medications reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. They can be used alone or with other treatments and come in spray and lotion forms.

Eczema Can Be Treated Internally

You can treat eczema internally with oral or injected medications like cyclosporine and methotrexate. They encourage the immune system to reduce inflammation but are only recommended for short periods.

Treat Eczema with Biologics 

Biologics target the overactive immune system and decrease inflammation. One example is Interleukin inhibitors, which are injectable.

The “Itch, Scratch, Repeat” Cycle 

Eczema can keep you awake at night in a cycle of itching and scratching. People of all ages, including children, can get caught in the “itch, scratch, repeat” cycle that can make for poor sleep.

When It’s Time to See A Dermatologist

It’s time to see a dermatologist if eczema is affecting your quality of life. This means that you aren’t able to sleep because it’s itchy. It can also mean that you are bothered by the way the rash looks. You must see a doctor if you see red streaks in your skin. The same is true if your eczema scabs or becomes filled with pus.

National Eczema Awareness Month reminds us that eczema is a common skin condition that will likely affect you or someone you know. But you and your loved ones can “escape from eczema” because it’s treatable. If you think you have eczema, contact one of our board-certified dermatologists today to schedule an assessment.

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Why TikTok & Reddit Might Not be the Best Dermatologists

Almost every viral skincare trend has a legion of enthusiastic – though sometimes anonymous – advocates. However, do any of the hottest skincare hacks have a solid scientific foundation or are they just shortcuts that could have potentially serious consequences? Let’s take a closer look.

Glass skin, cloud skin, and Jell-O skin are all viral terms describing the ideal complexion. Skin as smooth and clear as glass, as matte and luminous as a cloud, and as bouncy with collagen as Jell-O might be within your reach with a few home tricks and tips! At least, according to TikTok and Reddit users.

There’s something comforting about crowd-sourced skincare tips and tricks. After all, these are posted by regular people who’ve struggled with common skin issues; they’re not some huge corporate brand making promises their products will never fulfill, are they?

While some social media influencers or gurus operate in good faith and provide information and advice that they themselves follow, DIY skincare isn’t necessarily a viable solution for what could be legitimate medical issues. Here is a look at a few of the most popular viral skincare trends that might not be worth the hype.

Slugging

Slugging skincare is possibly the most popular and widely adopted DIY skincare trend. It involves applying an occlusive layer – petroleum jelly, most commonly – to the skin after cleansing to prevent trans epidermal water loss and keep the skin hydrated. This strategy is supposed to effectively seal in moisture, prevent dryness, and achieve smooth, glowing skin.

But what is causing your dry skin? 

Slugging doesn’t address the root causes of xeroderma, the clinical term for dry skin; it simply prevents additional water loss. Many people experience dry skin when the weather turns cold or because their skin doesn’t produce sufficient sebum to retain moisture. Others have dry skin because of an underlying medical issue, like eczema. It’s possible to experience dry skin as a response to a cosmetic or cleansing product.

Applying a layer of petroleum jelly to your skin after a cleansing routine that might contribute to dryness will trap the irritant next to the skin, exacerbating the problem and potentially causing breakouts.

And speaking of breakouts, this strategy is DEFINITELY NOT for people with acne-prone skin.

Slugging might benefit people whose dry skin is not caused by any external irritant or internal health concern. However, if you experience even the occasional breakout, have combination skin (both oily and dry), or have sensitive dry skin that becomes irritated or inflamed, consult a dermatologist for appropriate solutions.

Home Extractions/Popping

The home extractions trend is among the more troubling DIY skincare phenomena. Home pore extractions – manually removing debris from pores using an extraction tool or other implement – can lead to scarring, pockmarks, inflammation, and even infections.

In addition to potentially worsening existing acne and creating permanent scars, home extractions do not address the factors that contribute to the development of blackheads.

Home extractions are particularly dangerous when they are performed on cysts, which must always be evaluated by a medical professional before removal. The only safe way to undergo a pore extraction is to have one performed by a trained and certified dermatologist.

Face Taping to Prevent Wrinkles 

For decades, movie stars and entertainers have used face taping to draw back loose facial skin before filming or performing. Even non-entertainers use tape along the jawline and the temples as an instant, temporary facelift before a special event.

However, face taping has also recently become an online trend that supposedly inhibits the development of wrinkles. The theory behind overnight face taping is that the tape discourages the use of facial muscles during sleep, preserving the skin and preventing dynamic wrinkles.

Unfortunately, there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that facial taping has any long-term effect on existing or developing wrinkles. Moreover, using overnight tape could cause skin irritation and clogged pores.

Laser therapy, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and Botox are among the most effective treatments available for fine lines and wrinkles.

If you want to address signs of aging, skin clarity, or any other skin concern, it’s always best to consult with a trained dermatologist.

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Your #NoFilterNeeded Routine for Flawless Skin: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the age of Instagram and Snapchat filters, the pursuit of flawless skin has never been more popular. But what if we told you that you can achieve a #NoFilterNeeded look with the right skincare routine? It’s not about hiding imperfections; it’s about nourishing your skin to reveal its natural radiance. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the correct order for applying skincare products and the perfect amount to achieve that coveted flawless glow. 

Step 1: Cleansing 

The foundation of any successful skincare routine is a clean canvas. To enhance your routine, we recommend double cleansing regardless of if you wear makeup. Using an oil cleanser prior to using your regular cleanser will remove dirt, oil, SPF and makeup where the second cleanse will get deeper into the pores. Think of double cleansing as sweeping before you mop! Typically, this is recommended just at night since you’ll have more debris to remove than in the morning. We love Isdin’s Essential Oil Cleanser. Apply an oil cleanser to dry skin with dry hands, massage in, add some water and rinse. Then follow with your daily cleanser. 

Use lukewarm water to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Apply a nickel-sized amount to your fingertips and massage it onto your face in a circular motion for about 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat your face dry with a clean towel.  

Step 2: Toning (optional) 

If you have very oily or acne prone skin, use a toner like SkinCeuticals LHA Toner to remove excess oil and unclog pores 1x-2x daily. For normal/dry skin types, a hydrating mist like SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mist is best. Toners preps the skin to absorb the subsequent products effectively.  

Step 3: Serum/Targeted Treatment 

Serums are packed with powerful active ingredients that address specific skincare concerns. Depending on your needs, select an appropriate serum (e.g., vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration, retinol for wrinkles) or all the above for optimal results. Apply the recommended amount of product (listed on the bottle) to your fingertips and gently pat it onto your skin. Allow it to absorb for a minute or two. When using multiple serums, layer thinnest to thickest, water based to oil based. Shop our best selling serums. 

Step 4: Eye Cream 

The skin around your eyes is delicate and prone to fine lines and puffiness. Take a small pea-sized amount of eye cream on your ring finger and gently tap it around your eye contour. Don’t rub or tug at this sensitive area; instead, use a gentle, upward motion. Eye Creams – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com) 

Step 5: Moisturizer 

Moisturizing is a crucial step to lock in hydration and maintain your skin’s barrier function, regardless of your skin type. Even oily skin needs moisturizer! Dispense a dime-sized amount of moisturizer onto your fingertips and apply it evenly to your face and neck. Try our favorite SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Moisturizer – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com) for normal/dry skin, or a lightweight, water-based moisturizer for oily skin like SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com). Shop all our moisturizers 

Step 6: Sunscreen 

The most crucial step in any skincare routine is sunscreen application. UV rays cause premature aging, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply a generous amount to your face, neck, and any exposed areas. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. 

We love Isdin Eryfotona Actinica because it not only prevents but repairs existing damage. The key is finding a sunscreen you love and will wear every day! 

Exfoliators & Masks 

There are many different types of exfoliating products and masks. How often they are used depends on the type of product, individual skin needs & tolerance, and what else you are using in your routine. As a general rule of thumb, exfoliating cleansers like SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser should be used 3-4x per week, as it has micro-beads and exfoliating acids. A cleanser like SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser is suitable for 2x daily use. A very granular scrub like Alastin ReSURFACE should be used 1-2x a week. Exfoliating serums like Isdin Glicoisdin Moderate are a superior form of exfoliation because they are left on the skin and can address wrinkles and lift pigment. Always check with your skincare professional to guide you. Masks are a nice maintenance once a week. If you have oily, blemish-prone skin try SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Mask once or twice weekly. All skin types could benefit from using a hydrating mask like SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque once or twice weekly. 

Visual Reference: 

To give you a better idea of the correct amount to use, here’s a visual guide: 

  • Cleanser: A nickel-sized amount 
  • Toner: Just enough to dampen a cotton pad 
  • Serum: As directed on packaging 
  • Eye Cream: A small pea-sized amount for both eyes 
  • Moisturizer: A dime-sized amount 
  • Sunscreen: A generous application to cover your face and neck 

 Achieving flawless skin is within your reach when you follow a consistent skincare routine and visit your dermatologist or aesthetician regularly. Skincare in conjunction with professional treatments will give the best results. The two work hand in hand, like eating healthy and exercising. Remember that patience is key; results may take time, but your dedication will pay off. Embrace your natural beauty and say goodbye to the need for filters. Your radiant, #NoFilterNeeded skin is waiting to shine! 

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The Connection between Self-Care and Dermatology

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, the arrival of September brings more than just a shift in seasons—it marks the start of National Self-Care Month. In a world that often glorifies hustle culture and constant productivity, taking time to care for oneself is essential for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While self-care can encompass a wide range of practices, one often overlooked avenue is dermatology care. This National Self-Care Month let’s explore how dermatology care can be a powerful and transformative form of self-care.
Dermatology care involves nurturing and tending to the largest organ of our body: the skin. Our skin plays a vital role in protecting us from external elements, regulating temperature, and providing a sense of touch. Its health isn’t just about appearances; it’s deeply intertwined with our overall well-being.
·      Physical Health and Comfort: Prioritizing dermatology care means addressing skin conditions, maintaining skin health, and preventing potential problems. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can help identify and treat issues such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer early on, preventing discomfort and potential complications.
·      Mental and Emotional Well-being: Our skin’s appearance can significantly impact our self-esteem and confidence. Skin conditions or concerns can lead to emotional distress and affect mental health. Dermatology care helps address these concerns, promoting a positive self-image and enhancing self-confidence.
·      Relaxation and Stress Relief: Dermatology treatments often involve soothing massages, gentle exfoliation, and calming skincare routines. These practices can have a therapeutic effect, reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. Taking the time to care for your skin can serve as a mindful practice, allowing you to be present in the moment and relieve stress.
Dermatology Care as a Form of Self-Care
·      Customized Skincare Regimens: Dermatologists can create personalized skincare routines tailored to your skin type, concerns, and goals. Following a skincare regimen not only nurtures your skin but also provides a dedicated time each day to focus on yourself.
·      Professional Treatments: From facials and chemical peels to laser therapies, dermatologists offer a range of treatments that not only enhance your skin’s appearance but also offer therapeutic benefits. These treatments can leave you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized.
·      Early Detection of Health Issues: Regular dermatology check-ups can lead to the early detection of skin cancers and other health concerns. Prioritizing these appointments is a proactive step toward taking care of your overall health.
·      Confidence Boost: Addressing skin concerns can give you a newfound sense of confidence. When you feel good about your skin, you’re more likely to feel good about yourself in general, positively affecting various aspects of your life.
September, National Self-Care Month, serves as a reminder that taking care of ourselves is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Incorporating dermatology care into your self-care routine can have far-reaching benefits, from promoting physical health and emotional well-being to boosting your self-confidence. As you embrace the spirit of self-care this month, consider how dermatology care can be a powerful and transformative way to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Remember, investing in yourself is always worth it.
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Is More Better? How Much Skincare to Really Use🧴

It’s sometimes hard to gauge how much skincare product to use. You don’t want to use too much or too little. You want that “Goldilocks” amount that’s “just right.” Finding this balance is simple if you understand some general product guidelines.
Most People use too Much Product
We all tend to over-apply our skincare products without even thinking about it. Maybe we subconsciously think the extra product will give us extra-good skin, but it doesn’t work like that. The excess we apply goes to waste, and that’s a sad thought when you love top-of-the-line skincare products as much as we do.
The Right Amount 
If you think of how much skincare product to apply in terms of fruit, it’s pretty easy to keep things straight. Imagine the smallest amount as a pomegranate seed. It’s just enough to tap onto your face. The next amount is the size of a blueberry— enough product to spread in an even, thin layer. A cherry represents the amount of product that can be liberally applied all over your face.
·     Pomegranate Seed Size
Retinols and serums are effective in the tiniest pomegranate-seed amount. You want to use enough product to get the full benefit, but not so much that your skin turns red or dries out. Start small and build up to what your skin can tolerate. The retinol you buy from your dermatologist is stronger than over-the-counter retinol, so a little goes a long way.
 
·     The Size of a Blueberry
The next category of skincare products requires an amount the size of a blueberry. This includes moisturizers, night creams, and oils. You want enough to cover your face, but not liberally.
·     A Cherry Size
Sunscreen is the one skincare product where more is better. Too little leaves you under-protected. It’s best to apply it liberally. No, it won’t increase the SPF; that’s a myth. But applying a cherry-sized amount will ensure that every inch of your facial skin gets adequate protection, whether the sunscreen is tinted or untinted.
Read the Product Instructions
Most skincare comes with instructions that recommended the amount of product to use for best results. You’ll want to follow the guidelines…eventually. At first, it’s best to start small and work up to the recommended amount once you know how your skin will react.
 
Experiment to See What Works 
Experimenting will help you figure out what works for you. We each have unique skincare needs that don’t always match up perfectly with the product recommendations. If you use the recommended amount of moisturizer, for example, and your skin still feels tight, add a little more.
Our board-certified dermatologists know just the right amount of skincare product to use. They’re great at explaining it, especially when they can assess your skincare needs in person and give you individualized advice. Feel free to request an appointment with us anytime.
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The Facts About Alopecia Areata

What is alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 145 million people around the world. The condition causes the body’s immune system to attack the hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss on the scalp and occasionally the eyebrows and lower body. The condition is characterized by discrete hair loss patches that often range from a half-inch to two inches in diameter.
Alopecia areata typically affects the hair follicles. In some cases, however, it can also lead to changes in the nails, causing indentations, discoloration, and sometimes nail loss.

How did I get alopecia areata?

A genetic element is involved in alopecia areata; it is believed to be an inherited condition. However, it is also associated with – and exacerbated by – certain medical disorders, so it’s important to have a thorough medical checkup if you experience patchy hair loss anywhere on your body.
Fortunately, most people affected by alopecia areata are otherwise perfectly healthy, though the conditions that activate and de-activate alopecia-related hair loss are not yet fully understood. People with alopecia areata might experience an outbreak that corresponds with high stress, depression, or anxiety.

Can alopecia areata go away without treatment?

Alopecia areata affects everyone differently. Some people experience a bald patch or two in their youth, after which their hair grows back, and they never have another outbreak. Sometimes the hair regrows more sparsely. Some patients have full regrowth after an outbreak, but experience another bout of hair loss months or years later. In rare cases, however, the hair loss progresses to complete baldness. The differences in severity between patients are not understood, and outbreaks are difficult – sometimes impossible – to predict.

Can alopecia areata be cured?

There is no cure for any autoimmune disorder, but highly effective treatments are available. One treatment that has recently been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is a type of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that disrupts the immune system’s response to hair follicles. To date, the drug has been approved for the treatment of severe alopecia areata.
Additional treatments include the administration of corticosteroids in topical, injectable, or oral tablet form. Corticosteroids act as anti-inflammatory agents that block the immune system’s attack on hair follicles in people with mild symptoms. Many patients also achieve success with Minoxidil.
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7 Common Reasons for Hair Loss in Women

It is normal for women to lose about 100 hair strands every day. If you are losing more hair than usual or notice bald spots, it is time to meet a dermatologist.
Contrary to popular belief, home remedies may not completely arrest hair fall. Hair fall may be due to various reasons. It takes a certified dermatologist to get to the root cause of hair fall and recommend an effective treatment plan.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women?
1)  Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system attacks the hair follicles and other healthy cells. People with alopecia areata experience hair loss in patches. Some women experience complete hair loss and hair loss throughout the body.
Corticosteroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat the disease. The medications work by suppressing the immune system.
2)  Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet that is low in protein, zinc, Vitamin B3, and iron can cause hair fall. To treat a nutritional deficiency, your doctor may recommend a blood test. After an accurate diagnosis of the issue, health supplements like Nutrafol Women would be recommended.
3)  Birth Control
Changing to a new brand of hormonal birth control pills can induce hair loss. Some women experience hair loss even months after they stop taking pills.
Contraceptive pills with a low androgen index may control hormone-induced hair loss. Other forms of contraception such as implants, and skin patches cause hair fall too.
4)  Genetics
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or Androgenetic alopecia is a common genetic condition that causes hair fall in women. Hair thins around the crown and on the sides. Hair follicles shrink, and the new hair is thinner and finer.
FPHL is more common in women over the age of 40 but can occur even during teenage. Dermatologists use more than one method of treatment to obtain optimal results.
5)  Postpartum Hair Loss
Most often, postpartum hair fall is normal. The dermatologist will perform the essential tests and suggest a breastfeeding-friendly treatment plan. Additional factors contributing to hair loss can be identified too through these tests.
One of the trusted recommendations from dermatologists is Nutrafol Postpartum. The product targets the major reasons behind thinning hair and fills the nutrition gap. Since it is made of natural ingredients, there are no major side effects to it.
6)  Lifestyle Habits
Common lifestyle practices can induce hair fall in women. Some of them are,
  • Wearing tight ponytails and braids can scar the hair follicles permanently (traction alopecia).
  •  Overuse of heat styling products (thermal damage) and overbleaching.
  •  Chemical procedures for straightening the hair strands can damage the follicles.
  • Over-washing of hair deprives the scalp of natural oils and makes it prone to damage.
  • Under-washing of hair leads to product build-up and hair fall.
7)  Stress
Hair fall is related to physical and emotional stress. High-stress levels cause telogen effluvium. During this condition, the growth phase of the hair follicles slows down, and more hair follicles are moved into the resting phase.
The condition is temporary and reversible. Stress, when combined with sudden weight loss and poor diet, can aggravate telogen effluvium.
How to React to Excessive Hair Fall?
Do not panic! Hair fall can be controlled using different treatment options. It is best to talk to a dermatologist, go through a few tests to confirm the diagnosis, and proceed with the treatment.
If you want to learn more about hair loss and its various causes, talk to our hair loss specialists. We curate customized treatment plans to help you deal with hair loss and improve your hair health.
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The Root of Hair Thinning & Hair Loss

Do you know the medical term for a hair doctor? If you said ‘dermatologist,’ you’re right! Most people don’t realize that dermatologists are trained beyond skincare and can also help with conditions like hair loss. It may sound strange, but it’s true—a dermatologist is a skin, nail, and hair doctor. Our board-certified dermatologists can diagnose the cause of your hair loss. They can also prescribe the products you need to improve your hair’s follicle growth cycle for better hair.
How Much Hair Loss is Normal
You have more than 100,000 hairs on your head. They constantly cycle between growing and falling out. Losing between 50-100 hairs each day is part of the normal hair growth cycle. If more than this falls out, your hair is thinning, and it’s time to see your dermatologist.
Signs of Thinning Hair in —Women 
One of the first things a woman will notice when her hair’s thinning is that her part line seems wider than usual. Women might also see more scalp and less hair than before around the hairline that frames their face. This happens when follicles die. This means her scalp produces fewer hairs per square inch than usual. If this is happening, you need a dermatologist’s help to avoid further hair loss.
Men Should Look For These Signs
The beginning of typical male-patterned baldness is a sure sign of hair loss. This starts above the temples and circles around the head, leaving only a strip of hair along the bottom. Men might also notice a receding hairline. Both of these signal disruption of the normal hair follicle cycle.
Causes of Hair Loss
The most common cause of hair loss is the aging process. It’s natural for some follicles to stop producing hair. But hormonal changes experienced in pregnancy and menopause can cause your hair to thin while you’re relatively young. In addition, some people’s hair falls out prematurely because of a medical condition they have or medication they’re taking. Whatever the cause, if your hair loss is distressing to you, there are products your dermatologist can recommend to improve the situation.
Products For Fuller Hair
The solution to thinning hair is medical-grade products. Our West Dermatology Skincare Shop offers quality brands like Nutrafol. Some of these work from the inside, others work from the outside. Both are effective: the best one for you is the one your dermatologist prescribes for your specific hair-loss condition.
Hair Growth Serum
You can apply topical products directly to your scalp for ingredients that keep your hair follicle life cycle growing normally. Our dermatologists recommend Nutrafol Hair Growth Serum. This leave-in product contains a blend of antioxidants and minerals to support hair growth. You can massage it into your scalp twice a day.
Products That Work Internally
We also carry products at West Dermatology that help support your hair growth from the inside out. These supplements come in capsule form and are taken orally. They include the following quality products from Nutrafol:
Schedule An Appointment 
Hair loss doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of growing older, pregnancy, menopause, or illness. Our board-certified dermatologists can help you find the products you need to keep the fullest head of hair possible, despite your specific challenges. Reach out today to schedule an appointment and get on the path to better hair health.
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