DERMATLANTA.COM > GRIFFIN CENTER OF HAIR RESTORATION AND RESEARCH > THE SCIENCE OF HAIR
The Science of Hair
"My Hair Is Coming Out By The Roots."
"I'm Going Bald."
"What Will Make It Grow?"
Hair grows from follicles located in the dermis of the skin. Scalp hair grows as natural "bundles" containing one, two, three, four, and sometimes five hairs each. At the base of each follicle is the papilla, which is surrounded by nerves and blood vessels that maintain hair growth. Surrounding the papilla is the bulb, with actively growing cells that are making new hair. Vellus hair is short, fine, and unpigmented. It can be found over much of the body. Terminal hair is found on the scalp and in areas of secondary sexual development.
Hair growth and loss is generally regulated by hormones. Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) may be genetic or caused by hormonal problems or medications. Hair removal strategies, such as electrolysis and laser hair removal, may be necessary.
Hair loss has many possible causes. Premature hair loss can be permanent or temporary. The most common type is patterned baldness, a hereditary trait frequently seen in men due to the influence of the hormone testosterone. This leaves hair on the back and sides of the head while allowing balding in the front and top. It also affects women, leaving only a sparse growth on the top of the head.
Sudden temporary baldness can be caused by diseases such as the flu and pneumonia, high fevers, or even severe stress. Disorders of the thyroid or pituitary gland, nutritional deficiencies, tuberculosis, or cancer can cause gradual thinning of the hair. Hair loss can also be caused by scarring disorders, accidents, burns, and cosmetic surgery such as face lifting.
Dr. Griffin's Approach To Hair
Get To The Bottom Of Your Problem—Diagnosis Before Treatment Begins
Our main focus is to serve each individual's unique needs. This drives all our efforts. Dr. Griffin is committed to helping you look and feel your best. The first and most important step is to diagnose the cause of the hair loss. Blood tests help pinpoint the culprit along with a hair pull test, a hair count diary, and occasionally a scalp biopsy. After this evaluation of the problem, an individual treatment plan is made. The doctor reviews the patient's options--both medical and surgical--to best meet the patient's needs.