For millions of people world-wide, everyday is a "bad hair" day due to the problem of thinning hair or baldness. Discussing hair loss with a doctor is an important first step. There are a number of treatments available these days that make hair loss or thinning hair easier to live with. A concern not only experienced by men but by a growing number of women is Alopecia, or the excessive and abnormal loss of healthy hair. Traumatic situations and genetics can be the cause of hair thinning and loss and also by hormonal fluctuations, excessive physical force or poor nutrition. While these factors can affect both men and women, hair thinning and loss usually occurs for:

Men A thinning crown or receding hair line is the most common pattern of hair loss. Hair loss occurs due to the presence of a derivative or by-product of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone can shrink the hair follicles and has a greater effect in the mid-anterior scalp and temples. Some types of male hair loss are:Acute diffuse alopecia - occurs from physical or psychological factors such as hormones, nutritional deficiencies or medications.Chronic Diffuse Alopecia - can occur due to nutritional, metabolic or endocrine issues. Androgenetic Alopecia - occurs due to genetic sensitivity to male hormones. This rarely affects women.

Women Most cases of hair thinning and loss are as a result of hormonal fluctuations, ie during pregnancy, childbirth or use of some methods of birth control. Women can also experience: Anagen effluvium - occurs due to chemotherapy. The matrix of the hair becomes damaged and, as a result, the hair shaft will narrow, eventually fracturing. Traction alopecia - caused by severe hairstyles, such as ponytails that are too tight, braiding, cornrows or the frequent use of extensions. These procedures pull at hair over a period of time but loss can be prevented if recognized and treated early.

You can minimize or even stop hair thinning or loss, if you identify the symptoms early enough, by using a variety of pharmacy or store treatments such as: a). A weekly use, leave-in scalp treatment made with essential oils - oils such as lavender and orange will relax and unblock hair follicles to promote growth, regulate oil production and maintain cell repair. b). Daily vitamin supplement - look for ones labelled especially for hair and/or nails and are fortified with Vitamin B3 (niacin), this protects the hair shaft, and antioxidants, to ward off damage from free radicals. c). Use a hair shampoo that has "energizing/revitalizing/fortifying/" on the label. This type of hair shampoo will feed and protect your existing hair whilst eliminating oils that can block the follicles and prevent re-growth. Allow approximately 6-8 weeks before expecting to see any firm results. Like any treatment, results can vary and may to need to be used on a prolonged basis.

Techniques to hide hair loss: Perhaps it is time to think of some techniques to hide your hair loss if you are unhappy with your thinning hair. Whether you are a man or a woman losing hair due to heredity, stress, medication or a medical condition you can use these tips to help you cope. Use a Hair Thickening Shampoo or Conditioner Use a hair thickening shampoo and/or conditioner meant to disguise loss by making the hair appear to be thicker. Brush your hair gently after shampooing and conditioning to stop losing more hair, and allow hair to dry completely before combing or brushing it.

Styling Techniques If your hair is not as thick as it once was, there are a number of hair styling methods and hair styling products that can be employed to keep your hair looking its best at any age. Try to avoid hair gels as they only matte your hair and highlight your hair loss. Instead use hair texturizing creams and lotions that give you volume and fullness. Another good option is to use a leave-in hair conditioner that can make your hair emerge more textured and fuller. For a fuller look try blow drying your hair - For hair that is getting thin on top, try blow drying after you have washed and conditioned, then comb your hair in front directly back. Use mousse or a light hair spray to maintain the style. The blow drying will stop your hair from matting together and looking thinner.

Hair extensions are a quick and simple method Use a professional hair salon to get natural human hair added to your hair. This may last you for several weeks or several months. Hair extensions are used for women and men, with thick long hair to camouflage the fact that they are losing hair, and are an easy way to change your look.

Blow-dry your Hair Consider blow drying if your hair is thinning on top to give it added texture and body and to give your head more coverage. Brush it into a quiff on top of your head by brushing it from the forehead up. Maintain the style with a little hairspray. If your hair is thinning throughout, this is a good way to make your hair look fuller. Chaps -Getting a Buzz from your Hair The buzz cut is a way to disguise the fact that you are losing hair. Businessmen, sports stars and actors all use this as a classy, style that is easy to maintain. Groom your scalp daily and remove the hairs you have left for a clean, fresh look by using a wet-dry electric razor. If you're disturbed about your hair loss or if your hair is starting to thin, make an appointment with your hairdresser or barber and request some advice on a fresh, new look. There are plenty of hair styles to choose from that have you looking great.