Alopecia Areata affects 147,000,000 people around the world. Male and female pattern hair loss affects more than 50,000,000 men and 30,000,000 women in the US. These are the reasons why more and more professionals are expanding their services to focus on hair loss – helping them diversify their offerings, increase referrals and create satisfied and loyal patients and clients. Subscribe to this blog and visit HAIR.University for updated educational hair-related information.
Welcome to the HAIR.University Blog. Whether you are just getting started as a cosmetologist or medical professional or you have many years of experience in the fields of beauty or medicine, if you are interested in learning how to help men and women with hair loss, hair beauty and scalp issues, then follow us! We are your centralized up-to-date resource when it comes to the latest proven educational programs designed to help men and women using different science-based options, products, programs and protocols.
Earlier this year we participated in the Premiere Show in Orlando and witnessed the birth of a new line of services for salons and beauty professionals - and it all revolves around a new and unexplored "hidden frontier" - our scalp! If you missed the article in Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa - LNEOnline.com - then be sure to take a few minutes to read the article via the link below.
"...you can balance and treat your clients’ scalps and optimize the beauty of their hair by using in-spa treatments and providing them with at-home care that has recently become available. 'Think about it, we cleanse our face and brush our teeth; why don’t we give the same attention to our scalp?' asks Dr. Cristiano Renna, Ph.D., Head of Trichology at Cesare Ragazzi Laboratories in Bologna, Italy"
If you are a beauty professional or spa or salon owner then you cannot ignore the new line of scalp services that are increasingly becoming more popular. Consumers are also well informed and more educated - they are learning that in order to maximize the "awesomeness" of their hair, their scalps must be balanced and healthy. So what should you do? Get educated! How? By signing up for the next 3-day Healthy Scalp, Beautiful Hair Workshop on September 15-17 2017 in Boca Raton, Florida. Questions? Call 561-465-7655. You can read peer testimonials, watch videos and register for the workshop before all 20 seats are filled online at HealthyHairWorkshop.com
Unlike Androgenetic Alopecia (common male and female hereditary or “pattern” hair loss), Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in the sudden loss of hair. Most often, hair loss occurs in patches, with the hair itself coming out in clumps, leaving smooth, bald patches of varying sizes on the scalp, beard, or elsewhere on the body.
Alopecia areata affects both men and women equally, and is most common in people under the age of 20, but it may affect people of any age. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, it is expected that about 6.8 million people in the US will develop the disease at some point in their lives. Globally, that number jumps to 147 million people.
Generally, hair loss from alopecia areata comes and goes, and the damage it does to hair follicles is not permanent, but the disease varies from person to person. For example, it’s possible for hair to begin growing again in one bald patch and then fall out in another patch elsewhere months or years later, or for the alopecia to resolve and never return. In about one out of every ten cases, lost hair does not regrow. In some cases hair loss progresses to total baldness on the scalp, called Alopecia Totalis, or loss of hair over the whole body, known as Alopecia Universalis. While the condition is not life threatening, many alopecia areata patients are unfortunately mistaken for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment—and therefore often spend a good deal of time explaining “No, I’m not sick” or “No, I don’t have cancer” only further compounding a concerning situation.
While there is currently a lot of research and collaboration happening in search of a cure, a definitive solution has yet to be found.
Additional resources and links related to Alopecia include:
National Alopecia Areata Foundation - www.naaf.org
During these last 5 years of me working in the hair industry as an executive at a busy medical hair loss treatment practice, I often hear and see stories about the many different ways that a person is affected by either actual hair loss or is affected by even just a fear or concern that they MIGHT be losing their hair. Psychologically it can be devastating for some - to the point that they may even obsess over the condition of their hair without realizing it.
"Is my hairline receding? Did I always show this much scalp? My hair used to be thicker here..and thicker there..I think?"
The point is that there seems to be an ongoing internal dialogue with ourselves every time we look in the mirror that is probably taking away from our ability to focus on other life issues and may also even be causing us additional stress.
So the next natural point of discussion becomes -what do each of us DO about these feelings? And how long or what does it take for each of us to actually DO something or take SOME type of action?
Whether real or imagined, the fact remains that MILLIONS of men and women are losing their hair and are stressing about it, and they honestly don't know where to go or what to do! They probably don't even realize that there is something they CAN do, but simply can't find the clarity to seek it. It could also simply be that there are too many other more pressing life issues that are constantly bubbling up and are more at the forefront of all our concerns.
Another consideration is the idea that men and women, when they do have the time and ability to focus on their hair loss, whether real or imagined, will go through a series of steps to determine what if anything can be done to address it. It seems that most of us will first go to what we call "Dr. Google" and search online for possible cures and causes. We may then stumble upon some of those sticky ads that will then start following us around when we're browsing trying to simply plan our next vacation! The point is that trying to find a solution for hair loss online is literally, like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Some of us may even actually get our credit card out and spend a few bucks on some type of pill or lotion, only to find that the stuff really isn't the answer and we've only wasted our hard-earned money.
The next step many take might be to actually TALK to their barber or stylist by creatively or even jokingly mentioning to them the idea that we think we are losing our hair - but the problem is that most barbers or stylists don't really want to talk about this subject, in part because they would hate their client to think that they are somehow causing the hair to fall out. Plus, not to mention the fact that most barbers or stylists simply don't have the knowledge to know how to address a hair loss concern that their client is talking to them about.
So what's someone who has the knowledge and tools for helping men and women who are affected by their hair loss to do? Well, declare a WAR ON HAIR LOSS!! And what is our weapon of choice? Knowledge of course! After all, when it comes to hair loss, KNOWLEDGE REALLY IS POWER.
The soldiers in this war on hair loss are the thousands of barbers and stylists who have an AMAZING opportunity to help their clients - and all it takes is learning about what to do from my boss, Dr. Alan J. Bauman. Dr. Bauman has been helping men and women with their hair loss for more than 20 years. And to help us win the war on hair loss, he created a training program designed specifically for beauty professionals (as well as doctors who have patients asking them about hair loss) called the Certified HairCoach(tm) Program. The idea behind the training program to help beauty and medical professionals help their clients and patients using PROVEN, SCIENCE-BASED hair loss fighting products and protocols. Want proof? I'd be happy to share with you PLENTY of before and after photos that look like the order has been reversed. You can browse through these pictures online here:
And if you read the description, you'll see that many of these results are not due to surgery, they are due to a specific set of products comprised of specific nutritional supplements, prescriptions as well as FDA-Cleared drug-free, side-effect free low-level laser light therapy devices. HAIR LOSS BE GONE!
One important consideration is that hair loss is as we know, can be slow and progressive. They key then becomes to take action NOW and not delay any treatment or program because once the hair is gone, the only way to "bring it back" is hair transplant surgery (another exciting future post - stay tuned!)
The war is certainly far from over, but the good news is that we are on our way to spreading the good word and helping men and women by giving them hope and helping to reduce their hair loss stress. Plus, they will look and feel better too! Aging (another complicated topic - great for another future post) is difficult for many, so any help we can get to help us feel better about ourselves is a good thing -and we all know we can never get enough of a good thing in what seems to be an increasingly more challenging world.
If you are a professional in either the beauty industry or the health care industry, I STRONGLY suggest that you take a few minutes to watch this video that talks about the new movement to help empower you in order to help those with hair loss. The full video is 28 minutes - but well worth your time, I promise. You can also learn more about this truly amazing and life-changing Certified HairCoach program by visiting the official program web site at www.HairCoach.net
If you are worried about hair loss and want help for yourself or even for a loved one, then find the nearest Certified HairCoach by searching the directory at www.CoachMyHair.com
Lastly, be sure to also check out other powerful educational programs online at our new www.HAIR.University resource web site and consider purchasing a HAIR.U Library card for access to specific books, articles and other educational material related to hair, beauty, scalp and hair systems.
Until next post, lets keep fighting and here's to you hair's health!
Hair loss is a progressive condition that affects millions of men and women, yet there are only a few limited treatment programs commonly known by the general public that effectively address this life-altering problem. Additionally, truly helpful treatment options have become increasingly more difficult to find because of constant new distractions and interference that comes in the form of myths, frustrating misconceptions and misinformation. The Bauman Certified HairCoach Program is a living resource network and collaborative community designed to improve the lives of those suffering from hair loss by providing the latest proven science-based treatment options and procedures to men and women around the world. As the brainchild of Dr. Alan J. Bauman, M.D. of Boca Raton, Florida, the program was “born” out of Dr. Bauman’s compassionate patient-centric and results-oriented protocols. The constantly evolving curriculum includes highly accurate hair loss evaluation and diagnosis protocols, scalp health and trichology principles, advanced treatments, as well as strict follow-ups with results tracking, continuing education and more. For more than two decades, Dr. Bauman has dedicated his entire professional career to specifically helping those with hair loss; As a Board-Certified Hair Restoration Specialist, he’s served as a champion for medical and beauty professionals as well as patients interested in learning all about the causes of hair loss, effective treatments and the latest medical and surgical procedures in this fast and ever-changing field of hair restoration.
Dr. Alan J. Bauman teaching his Bauman Certified HairCoach Program at Bauman Medical in Boca Raton, Florida
No one in the world expects to become fully versed in the evaluation and treatment of hair loss in one single workshop or seminar. However, whether you are starting your journey towards helping those struggling with hair loss, or just want to refine and advance your skills in the latest techniques and technology, Dr. Bauman’s Certified HairCoach Program has proven again and again to be a valuable investment. As a Certified HairCoach, a multitude of personnel, time-saving resources and actionable training opportunities will be available for you over the long-term to ensure your success.
Our motto is: "We believe beautiful hair helps people look better and feel happier!"
Who should consider becoming a Bauman Certified HairCoach?
Professionals in the beauty, aesthetic, cosmetic and anti-aging industries looking for the latest information on addressing hair loss in men and women, clear diagnosis and evaluation methods, effective treatment protocols, the latest most advanced procedures, and common “pearls and pitfalls,” etc., can all benefit from participating in the HairCoach Program.This program was designed for Physicians, Medical Assistants, Hair Transplant Technicians, Physician Assistants, Nurses/ Nurse Practitioners, Trichologist, Aestheticians, Patient Advocates, Consultants or Concierge Service Providers, Cosmetologists, Hairdressers, Hair Replacement Professionals, Medical Practices, Salon and Spa Owners or Managers, Medical Device manufacturers, Pharmaceutical or Cosmetic Product Manufacturers or Distributors.
What educational resources are available through the HairCoach Program?
While there is a robust self-study online component, the distillation of key points, tips, techniques and more resources come together in the hands-on workshop experience at Dr. Bauman’s 11,000 square foot “Hair Hospital” facility in Boca Raton, Florida. The jewel of the hair restoration industry, Dr. Bauman’s comprehensive and state-of-the-art facility is unmatched in its ability to effectively and compassionately help improve the lives of those with hair loss. Taught by Dr. Alan J. Bauman himself, the HairCoach program “comes alive” for those limited number of participants who attend the small intimate training sessions.
What do beauty and medical professionals who joined this program say about their HairCoach training experience?
"In 30 plus years of hair replacement and educating other professionals, this program has set a new standard for the genesis of our specialty for solutions in hair thinning and hair loss management"
Jeffrey Paul, CHC Jeffrey Paul Salon (Cleveland, Ohio)
"I enjoyed finally having a complete system to get started in performing comprehensive consultations for my clients who are experiencing hair loss"
Karen Gordon, CHC Gordon Designs (Chicago, Illinois)
“This hair restoration class was complete; academics and hands-on training. A full program to implement into my practice”
Dr. Kenneth D. Orbeck, CHC BodyLogicMD (Greenville, South Carolina) "
The HairCoach Program is a wonderful addition to every studio or clinic looking to grow their business and enhance the quality of care. Thank you HairCoach!!"
Caroline Ruggiero, CHC Truly You (Mississauga, Ontario)
“Today’s class was excellent. There is no source like Bauman Medical for up-to-date and accurate scientific discussion and treatment of hair loss”
Dr. Stephen A. Chagares, CHC The Plastic Surgery Center (New Jersey)
“Concise and thorough introduction to medical evaluation,prevention and treatment of hair loss in both men and women”
Dr. Jan V. Karlin, CHC Nova Cosmetic Center (Orlando, Florida)
"I'm looking forward in sharing this information with prospective clients & existing clients who are interested in monitoring/measuring their possible loss of hair. Excited to have learned these treatments and options for hair loss and improving its appearance"
Jo Barone JoJo Concepts International Inc. (New Jersey)
“One of the best classes so far I that I’ve attended; comprehensive and hands-on”
Dr. Elena Dolskaya, OBGYN, CHC Tru-Well (St. Petersburg, Florida)
“The passion and compassion for wanting the best outcome possible for the client”
Jason Holland, BMO, CLE, CHC Institute for Hormonal Balance (Orlando, Florida)
"The class was very well planned, organized and executed. Your information was expansive but delivered in a straight forward, easy to understand platform. This class is a must, a building block to a well-rounded practice"
Leslie Robinson, CHC Mane Image (Merrillville, Indiana)
“Today’s class was very inspiring for me as a hair stylist to take the next step to help my clients by closing the gap between myself and Dr. Bauman”
Male and female pattern hair loss affects more than 50,000,000 men and 30,000,000 women in the US. That’s why more and more beauty and medical professionals are expanding their services to focus on hair loss – helping them diversify their offerings, increase referrals and create satisfied loyal clients/patients.
Designed and taught by Board-Certified Hair Restoration Specialist Dr. Alan J. Bauman, the Bauman Certified HairCoach Program is a science-based class that provides beauty and medical professionals with the knowledge, tools, protocols and hands-on training necessary to help men and women affected by hair loss.
If you are a beauty or medical professional looking to make a difference by offering truly effective hair loss treatments, products and services including Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for hair regrowth then visit www.HairCoach.net
If you are looking for help with your own hair loss or know someone who is being affected by their hair loss situation, then search for the closest Bauman Certified HairCoach by visiting www.CoachMyHair.com
A Hair Restoration Physician is a medical professional who specializes exclusively in the diagnosis, treatment and tracking of hair loss and hair growth in men and women. One of the biggest mistakes we tend to make when we first become actively worried about hair loss is that we try to self-diagnose by doing research online. Another mistake people make is that they tend to rush to their primary care doctor or dermatologist, rather than taking the time to ask for a referral or directly find a medical specialist who focuses solely on the treatment of hair loss. While primary care doctors and dermatologists may mean well, most of the time, their limited knowledge in the field of hair and hair restoration will likely lead to treatment delays and frustrations. If you or someone you know is worried about their hair, these 4 tips should help make sure that help comes with little or no delay or added frustration.
Tip #1:
Look for a physician who is a Board-Certified Hair Specialist. This will help ensure that you are working with a professional who has the proper credentialing and updated training necessary to help you address your hair situation as quickly and as effectively as possible. Board Certifications are earned by physicians who prove themselves to be truly and thoroughly knowledgeable in all the different types of hair loss diagnosis and treatments. The governing body in the medical hair specialty who certifies these physicians is the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. Don't be shy and either ask or check their credentials on their web site and look for the words "Board Certified" by the ABHRS.
Tip #2:
Before securing your first appointment, visit their web site and look for before and after photos showing you results of their work. There should also be written patient reviews that can give you and idea of their bedside manner and give you the ability to gage their patients' level of satisfaction. When looking at the photos, the images should be clear and same lighting conditions should appear in both the before and matching after image.
Tip #3:
You should also look for a physician who is an active member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. The ISHRS is a non-profit professional educational organization that provides shared knowledge and ensures collaboration between member physicians through annual meetings, presentations and educational conferences. The excerpt from the home page on their web site reads:
The ISHRS is a global non-profit medical association and the leading authority on hair loss treatment and restoration with more than 1,100 members throughout 70 countries worldwide. The ISHRS provides continuing medical education to physicians specializing in hair transplant surgery and is committed to delivering the latest information on medical and surgical treatments to consumers suffering from hair loss, and most commonly from androgenetic alopecia – male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss.
Tip #4:
Consider making an appointment with a physician who is recommended by the American Hair Loss Association. The AHLA is another highly respected professional organization that can give you peace of mind when selecting a medical hair specialist. Created for the benefit of the public, the AHLA ensures physicians who specialize and practice in the area of medical hair restoration conduct themselves in a manner that is honest, truthful and ethical. The mission of the AHLA as presented on the home page on their web site reads:
The American Hair Loss Association is committed to educating and improving the lives of all those affected by hair loss. It is our goal to create public awareness of this devastating disease of the spirit, and to legitimize hair loss of all forms in the eyes of our medical community, the media and society as a whole.
Consideration
Keep in mind when looking online and selecting a hair restoration physician, that in addition to surgery, there are also many proven FDA-Cleared non-surgical means through which one can effectively slow, stop and sometimes even reverse the hair loss process. Depending on where you are in the hair loss process, a properly trained and credentialed hair restoration specialist will help determine the level at which you will both need to fight to help keep and perhaps even restore your hair.
During the most recent 5 years of my professional career, I have embarked upon an amazing journey - a trip revolving around something so small, yet so complex! Physiologically and psychologically amazing, awe-inspiring and extremely powerful - and that my friends, is the world of HAIR!
Looking back I would have never imagined the many wonderful friendships and memories that I have formed. From getting to spend almost an entire week in beautiful Bologna, Italy, to attending medical conferences and learning about amazing new medical products and therapies that are changing our lives for the better.
We have had amazing success rolling out and growing the Bauman Certified HairCoach Program and solidifying our business collaborators via the Bauman Alliance Members program. Most recently, we've embarked on a mission to help spread the good word about the opportunity to become a CNC Licensee. Most exciting of all however, is the project that is just now coming to light - and that is the launch of the HAIR.University resource site.
I hope to share with you the many interesting things that I encounter via my blog posts. My reward will be that hopefully something I share will help you in your world, either directly or indirectly, and empower you to help more people around you. Until the next post - here is to your hair's health!