Unlock the Mystery to Transforming Hair Restoration.
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Throughout my life, various aspects of my appearance have sparked insecurities. Surprisingly, my hair was never one of them. Like many women, I have experienced my fair share of regrettable haircuts and dealt with common issues like breakage and split ends. Overall, my hair has always been robust, healthy, and voluminous.
However, towards the end of 2023, I began noticing an alarming increase in hair loss. Strands were coming out more frequently than usual, whether it be in the shower, on my hairbrush, or scattered around the house. Initially, I attributed this to seasonal shedding and adjusting to a new hair care routine. Yet, as time passed, the hair loss persisted and became more evident. My once thick mane now appeared visibly thinner, even when styled up or let loose. Running my fingers through it felt less dense and more fragile.
Determined to uncover the cause, I sought answers. Despite feeling clueless about the sudden hair loss, my stylist had a suspicion. Following my unexpected type 1 diabetes diagnosis earlier in 2023, she theorized that the hair loss might be related to prolonged periods of high blood sugar that preceded the diagnosis. Intrigued, I delved deeper into this connection. I discovered that elevated blood sugar levels not only harm nerves and internal organs but can also impair the blood vessels responsible for nourishing hair follicles, hindering their growth and health. Dr. Priya Jaisinghani, a board-certified endocrinologist in New York City, explained, “Hair follicles, like other body organs, rely on adequate blood flow to receive oxygen and essential nutrients.” Consequently, hair loss may not become apparent until months after the initial damage, as in my case.
As a longtime beauty editor, I was surprised by the lack of awareness surrounding the link between blood sugar levels and hair health. Despite the staggering number of individuals grappling with high blood sugar, estimated at 56 million in the U.S. alone, discussions about this crucial connection remain scarce. While hyperglycemia is most prevalent among diabetics, affecting approximately 40 million Americans, it can also afflict those with other medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, or as a result of certain medications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. have prediabetes, a condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels that are not yet deemed diabetic.
In light of these revelations, I embarked on a journey to restore my hair and overall well-being.
Dr. Jaisinghani explains that meeting the criteria for diabetes involves dealing with hyperglycemia, which can have various effects on the body. Environmental factors such as high sugar diets, lack of physical activity, stress, and physical illness can also contribute to elevated blood sugar levels. Certain medications, like steroids, can also lead to high blood glucose levels.
High blood sugar can cause complications in both large and small blood vessels, impacting hair follicles as well. Damage to these vessels can prevent nutrients from reaching the hair follicles, affecting hair growth. While hyperglycemia-induced hair loss can occur in any population, a 2019 study found that African American women with type 2 diabetes may have an increased risk of severe central hair loss.
Hair growth occurs in four phases, so it may take some time to see the effects of hyperglycemia on hair health. Health changes can take a few months to impact hair growth, with conditions like telogen effluvium causing temporary hair shedding. Managing high blood sugar levels is crucial in addressing hair loss, along with ensuring adequate protein and iron intake and practicing stress reduction techniques.
It is important to address the root cause of hair loss by examining health, environment, and lifestyle factors from a few months ago. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance on controlling blood sugar levels and promoting optimal hair health.
The option of consulting a specialist to discuss medication and other potential remedies is worth considering. In addition to professional interventions, there are numerous hair products, supplements, and devices available for home use, as well as various in-office treatments, that can contribute to enhanced hair growth and overall hair health, particularly once blood sugar levels have been stabilized. Dr. Garshick emphasizes the importance of addressing the root cause of hair loss while also highlighting supplementary options that can fortify and support hair growth. This may involve incorporating hair vitamins and supplements such as Nutrafol and Viviscal, as well as utilizing strengthening and thickening shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in products. Home-based light therapy devices have proven to be effective in reinforcing hair strength and reducing shedding. Similarly, in-office procedures like low-level laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments have demonstrated success in promoting hair growth and increasing hair density.
Although my hair has not yet fully regained its pre-diabetes thickness, I have found some success with several of these solutions. For instance, I have been using the HigherDOSE Red Light Hat consistently each morning since its launch last summer. Additionally, Sourse’s Hair Grow Chocolate Bites, which contain vegan biotin to stimulate hair growth, have significantly aided in advancing my journey towards hair regrowth. Notably, these chocolate bites are not only delicious but also low in carbohydrates, requiring no additional insulin administration for consumption.
Consistent application of these treatments typically yields visible results within three to six months, although individual outcomes may vary depending on the type and severity of hair loss experienced. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements, particularly those containing biotin, as it can potentially impact thyroid blood test results, which are frequently monitored in individuals managing diabetes.
Despite the challenges posed by the hair loss associated with my undiagnosed type 1 diabetes, I have found hope throughout this journey. Losing my long, thick locks, which were once a source of pride, left me feeling vulnerable in a way I had not experienced before. However, by acknowledging the issue and achieving better control over my blood sugar levels, I have regained agency over the fate of my hair amidst a diagnosis that has demanded significant adjustments in my life as a diabetic.
Although my hair has not fully recovered its former vitality, with the support of medical professionals and the advancements in at-home treatments and supplements, I am optimistic about the progress it has made and the improvements that lie ahead.
