Good Morning America on ABC Discussed Alopecia
On October 11, Good Morning America on ABC did a small segment on alopecia. I was so excited to see this on the air. We are not alone!! There is hope, help, and healing.
The show discussed the following information:
"About 70 percent of female hair loss is genetic. Other causes include stress, illness, medication and diet. Crash diets, tight ponytails/braids/weaves/extension, thyroid disorders, pregnancy, going off birth control and general anesthesia can all result in hair loss.
"Hair loss is an emotional problem for women," said dermatologist Susan Taylor. "My patients have told me they don't want to go out in public, they don't feel good in relationships with partners. They are uncomfortable going to work, and don't like to do anything with the public."
Taylor said hair styling techniques using chemical relaxers, hot comb, weaves or extensions have had a marked effect on women's hair loss, especially for black women. She said in the past 15 years, there's been a 50 to 60 percent increase in hair loss because of styling.
Taylor offered the following advice for preventing female hair loss.
• Don't ignore the problem. Get help soon.• Hair care should be gentle, not painful. If it hurts, it's going to harm your hair.• Avoid tight ponytails.• Use gentle shampoos, nothing that itches.• Don't skip conditioner.• Don't over brush."
I thought these were some good tips. If you would like to see the information in more detail the website is http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/OnCall/story?id=1202273&page=1
To Hair, Hope, and Healing
Gina ~~