Slow Hair Growth in Senior Citizen

Slow hair growth in senior citizen is just one of the many aging issues. Can anything be done? In some cases, the answer is yes…to a certain extent.

Is hair loss a natural part of aging? If you visit a senior citizen center, you'll see seniors with little or no hair, and you'll see seniors with heads full of hair. Why such a difference?

If you think about it, this concept doesn't just apply to seniors. In fact, hair loss really isn't considered a natural part of the aging process. If you are suddenly experiencing significant and sudden hair loss, you need to see your doctor to determine if there is a medical problem that needs to be addressed.

Slow hair growth in senior citizens is often a common problem. There are a variety of reasons that could contribute to it. For example, the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) forms from the natural enzyme 5-Alpha Reductase. DHT is often associated with male-related issues, such as aggression and sex drive. It can also shrink hair follicles if it settles into the scalp. When this occurs, the follicles become dormant, and hair stops growing.

While this condition is common in men, it can also happen to women, especially those who are in menopause. If your hair loss or slow hair growth is due to DHT, there are some herbal supplements, such as saw palmetto, that have been found to reduce the affects of DHT. Before you take any type of herbal supplement, however, please check with your doctor.

While DHT is certainly one cause with hair growth or hair loss, there are other issues to consider. Not all of your hair remains in a growing phase throughout your lifetime, although 90 percent typically continues to grow. The other 10 percent of your hair remains in a dormant or resting stage, and these are the hairs that are usually shed.

When we are young, our hair grows for up to seven years before falling out. But, as we age, that growing phase becomes significantly shorter. Hair thins as we age, too.

What can you do to encourage hair growth? There are several steps you can take.

• Monitor your health. Your hair's slow growth may be due to a health condition, such as heart disease or high cholesterol levels, so be sure and tell your doctor you are experiencing this condition. Medicines may be able to help this problem.
• Increase your iron intake. Iron deficiencies can cause slow hair growth and hair loss. While there are iron supplements that you can take, there are a lot of iron-rich foods that can help, such as broccoli, red meat, and even tofu. Do not add any iron supplements to your diet, however, without consulting your doctor.
• Wash your hair. It may sound very simplistic, but washing your hair might encourage hair growth. Hair growth can actually be stunted by excess dirt and oils. Be sure you wash your scalp as well as your hair.
• Talk to your hair stylist. He or she may recommend a hair treatment specifically designed to stimulate hair growth and get your scalp extra clean. Nioxin is one product commonly used after shampooing. There are also hair-thickening shampoos available.
• Consider over-the-counter products. Some people have found success using products like Rogaine and Propecia, but even common medications, such as ibuprofen, may help. Supplements, including biotin, can help your hair hold moisture, making it appear fuller. Biotin is also found in milk, egg yolks, corn, and fortified cereals.

Finally, try to reduce the stress in your life as much as possible.

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