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March 2007

Beware of hair loss reversal promises

March 2007

Hair Loss sufferers have been warned to beware of bogus therapists who claim to heal alopecia but often cause further damage and serious health risks.

Known side effects of some untested products on the market include skin irritation, diminished libido, weight gain and, in extreme instances, cancer.

The Cyprus Dermatology Association considered the issue serious enough to launch an awareness week – which began on Monday and will end on March 30 – aimed at deterring the public from entrusting their health in inappropriate hands.

Association head, Dr Constantinos Demetriou, sounded alarm bells on Tuesday, warning patients of scammers posing as ‘hair experts’ with ‘miracle cures for hair loss’.

These people, he said, do not have the necessary qualifications and experience to correctly diagnose and treat alopecia. Their actions are considered illegal and highly dangerous, Demetriou stressed.

Often the products are not medically tested and no studies have been undertaken into their effectiveness or safety.

Although some cases have gone to court, the problem remains rife and dermatologists say that not only is the treatment administered by these ‘therapists’ ineffective, it can also create further complications.

Demetriou also raised awareness over the various products that are frequently advertised, claiming to heal alopecia, saying sufferers should stay well clear.

One in two Cypriot men suffers from some form of hair loss, according to the association head, while two to three per cent of women suffer from the condition.

He pointed out the negative social and emotional consequences that come with the condition. “It provokes feelings of inferiority and determines opportunities for employment and even the prospects of marriage,” said Demetriou.

He referred to studies from abroad, which show that many bald men lose their confidence and virility along with their hair, because they believe that they look older and less attractive.

According to dermatologist Charalambos Petrou, alopecia can appear due to pathological or hereditary reasons and even stress.

For example, a powerful shock is capable of causing a form of alopecia. Hereditary alopecia can be suffered equally by men and women, while pathological alopecia is due to hormone abnormalities, the lack of vitamins and protein, the administration of toxic medication, pregnancy and anaemia.

Its not all bad news for sufferers, however, as it can now be healed with medication available on prescription.

The drug finasteride, which is taken orally, has had some excellent results, with an 83 per cent success rate.

Menoxytil is applied locally and has a 60 per cent success rate. Both types of medication must be taken for life.