ChemoFor many in cancer treatment, chemotherapy is a drug that allows patients to fight cancer cells and hopefully enter remission. Hair loss is a side effect of the drug, which can be hard for the millions of women diagnosed each year. Scientific breakthroughs mean there are new and exciting ways to combat this side effect. Let’s look at some of the options.

Cold Caps and Freezing

A cold cap is wearable technology that aims to save hair during chemotherapy treatment. By cooling the hair capillaries, these caps reduce the hair to a hibernated state preventing the drugs from absorbing into the scalp. Research shows the results are mixed. One study involving 122 women with stage 1 or stage 2-breast cancer showed that two-thirds of the patients saw loss of only half of their hair. While doctors have expressed concerns about scalp hypothermia, the FDA clears a majority of these caps. Caps are available for patients to purchase or rent during treatment.

Hair Stimulants

Another method women can use to prevent or halt hair loss during chemotherapy is the application of hair stimulant medication. Hair stimulants are often associated with male pattern baldness, but application during chemotherapy can stimulate hair follicles and allow the hair to grow back faster during the chemotherapy process. While there is no scientific evidence that these drugs can prevent hair loss during treatment, there are plenty of testimonials to their effectiveness in the months after chemotherapy ends.

Tips for Hair Maintenance During Chemotherapy

If you are already undergoing chemotherapy and have experienced hair loss, maintaining your scalp and remaining hair can be key to regrowth when treatment is complete.

Tips for scalp maintenance during chemotherapy include:

Using soft brushes and shampoo for sensitive skin

Shave your remaining hair to prevent irritation

Protect your scalp with sunscreen or a covering

Hair loss doesn’t have to be the defining moment of your cancer treatment. Beautiful scarves can be tied in a variety of ways to create looks for every occasion. Fake eyelashes and wigs have evolved over the years, and some are designed to look completely natural. Wigs also give you the chance to switch hair colors and textures throughout your treatment.

It’s important to realize that everyone deals with hair loss differently. While some are quick to embrace their new look, some cancer patients need more time and space to adjust to a drastic chance in their appearance. Remember: whether you seek treatment to preserve your hair during treatment or work through hair loss, there is no right or wrong when it comes to making it through chemotherapy.

If you’re suffering from hair loss due to chemotherapy or any other medical condition Van Scoy Hair Clinics can assist you with hair loss alternatives. We invite you to meet privately with one of our hair loss professionals who will assist you in choosing how to proceed during this difficult time. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

Photo Credit: Candace Nast Via Flickr Creative Commons

Women's FrustrationsIf you sometimes find yourself reaching for a beanie not to warm your head or be on trend but simply to hide your hair, you may suffer from a common female frustration: hair hatred. Why is it that so many women covet the hair they do not have? Those with straight hair envy their curly haired counterparts. Those with curly hair spend hours per week flat ironing their locks only to end up with a frizzy hybrid by day’s end. Life would be so much simpler if we could learn to love our locks!

Surprising Stats

The folks at Dove surveyed women and discovered that hair profoundly affects the way women see and feel about themselves. Specifically, 90 percent of the women surveyed agreed that women judge one another based on their hair, more than half admitted to having “hair envy” and only 11 percent said they loved everything about their hair.

Another survey of more than 1,000 women conducted by Consumer Reports’ “ShopSmart” magazine found that a bad hair day often becomes a bad day, period. Nearly half of women reported that their mood and self-esteem are affected on bad hair days. Sadly, hair hatred begins early. Also according to Dove, only four out of 10 girls with curly hair think their hair is beautiful.

Embrace It or Change It!

Dove has launched a campaign encouraging women to love their natural hair. That’s wonderful, in theory. It’s not always realistic, though. Fortunately for those who simply cannot be swayed to embrace their natural hair, there are options. Women with thinning or fine hair who covet voluminous locks increasingly are turning to hair extensions, which provide insane versatility and are incredibly natural looking. Curly haired women who desire sleek hairstyles can now head to blowout bars whose sole purpose is to fight frizz and tame tresses. Straight-haired women can head to any retailer that sells beauty products and find a wide selection of curling irons and hair rollers in just about any diameter they desire.

Whether you covet curls or cannot stand yours, perhaps you’ll be comforted by the knowledge that you are most definitely not alone. Don’t let your bad hair day get the best of you. It, too, shall pass.

No matter how we feel about our hair losing it can be devastating. If you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss, Van Scoy Hair Clinics will help you find the hair loss solution that’s right for you. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

Photo Credit: Ann_Sarkisyan Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

 

Sources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7CyPtkpng

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeJVNum2zwY

http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-04-12-bad-hair_N.htm

http://www.today.com/video/how-to-love-your-hair-share-how-you-embrace-the-color-texture-more-670699075906

http://www.goodyardhairblog.com/why-are-hair-extensions-so-popular-nowadays.html

 

CharlizeCelebrities such as Khloe Kardashian and Rita Ora have debuted mid-length hairstyles that are sure to wow people this summer. Whether you plan to spend your vacation at the beach or in exotic cities, looking to these women for guidance gets your summer started in style.

  1. Khloe Kardashian

Khloe Kardashian bade sayonara to her longer locks and said hello to a vibrant, lively cut that took a few inches off her hair length. Her hair lightly touches her shoulders, and thanks to the master layering technique, her new locks have plenty of movement and volume. Customize this look to match your preferences; for example, if you want hair that is straight or more windswept, you can get it.

  1. Rita Ora

At the Glamour Music Beauty Festival, Rita Ora debuted a stunning new hairstyle that curls and softens her locks. Luckily, her stylist described exactly what he did, so you can get yours to duplicate the effort. In segments, braid your hair and use irons to get the texture to stay. While this hairstyle might not last more than a few days, it’s a cool way to experiment.

  1. Charlize Theron

This hairstyle is similar to Khloe Kardashian’s, but Charlize Theron’s is a bit shorter and the part is in the middle (Khloe’s hair is parted to one side). Blond highlights with dark roots look terrific when you strut around with this hairstyle, and no matter how “messy” you make it, you look perfect for the beach and for cities all around the world.

  1. Julianne Hough

If you want to take the messy look to a new level, try Julianne Hough’s shaggy ‘do. This look, parted in the middle, is especially effective if you want to make your face look longer or, for example, if you want to counteract some roundness in your face. And with a shaggy hairdo, you can wear your tresses with highlights, down, half up, in a ponytail and so much more.

Bonus Tip: Glitter Is In!

Glitter is everywhere these days. Even guys are getting on in the fun, using glitter to cover their beards. Sprinkle it in your hair and even on your eyebrows and lips. No matter your hairstyle, glitter rocks.

You too can sport any of these hairstyles this summer. Even if you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss, Van Scoy Hair Studios has the best hair restoration specialists on staff that will help you get the look you want. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

Photo Credit: jingdianmeinv Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Braided ExtensionsWhile natural hairstyles are enjoying a comeback this spring, don’t give up on your extensions just yet. There are plenty of updos, braided looks and longer locks that might have you reaching for that extra length. This spring, be on the lookout for unique buns, interesting braided patterns, plenty of long locks and magnificent curls.

 

 

High Twisted Bun

A classic ballerina bun takes on an interesting twist with some knotting close to the scalp. If your hair isn’t long enough to fill out the entire bun, pop in a few extensions to add some length. Once you have enough hair anchored, start at the scalp, working in small, triangular sections. Break each section into two parts and tie hair into a knot close to the scalp. Work back to the place where the bun will sit. Continue all around the scalp until there are neat knots laid at regular intervals. Then use a bun filler and wrap the hair around, creating a sleek, beautiful bun on the crown of your head.

Braids Are Always In

Braided looks remain popular since they are versatile and low maintenance. Any hairstyle you can do without braids, you can do with. Plus, you can choose the length and pattern. Three-strand, five-strand and even some interesting two-strand techniques make every braided do an original.

Twisting Up the Long Locks

Locks work a lot like braids, with sleek twists tying up hair to the end. Locks can be as long as you like with added extensions, giving you a short hairstyle when you want or long, flowing locks for a night out. Like braids, locks go in fairly easily and can stay in for months, so you might get away with only one or two salon visits this summer.

Go Crazy Curly

Whether you have a natural fro to tease out for volume or soft, relaxed curls, no worries. Both can be eye-catching. With longer hair, you can usually shape up the loose curls, hit your hair with a spritz of hairspray and set with a curling iron. For shorter hair, add extensions to give you the needed inches, and you can go from a Mohawk to a wild, wavy spring look in one day.

What to Watch for With Extensions

While extensions give you unparalleled versatility and an endless number of styles to play with, keep an eye on your scalp. Over time, the adhesives and tie-in methods can damage your scalp. You might wind up with permanent parts, blinding headaches, flaking skin or even baldness as a result. Always have extensions removed regularly and give your scalp a break between inserts.

If you’re considering using hair extensions or are suffering from hair loss Van Scoy Hair Clinics offer several forms of hair replacement procedures, and we use Micro Point Accents for hair extensions.

To learn more or to schedule a free consultation call us today at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

Photo Credit: Steven Depolo Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

Sources:

 

http://www.essence.com/2016/03/24/afro-bloomin-might-be-best-spring-natural-hairstyles-ever

 

http://www.latest-hairstyles.com/black/hairstyles.html

 

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2274414/Dangers-hair-extensions-Blinding-headaches-bleeding-scalps-permanent-baldness.html

History HairNo matter what style it’s been through the ages, hair remains our crowning glory. Let’s look at how hair trends have changed throughout the eras and decades of history.

Ancient Egypt

Men and women wore shoulder-length hair and wigs. Young boys shaved their heads except for a single “lock of youth.” Young girls’ hair was often braided.

Ancient Greece

Greek women loved using headbands and flowers for hair accessories. Men had shorter hairstyles. Those who were not soldiers often wore beards.

Ancient Rome

Romans used wigs and false hairpieces. The richer, the more elaborate, with pearls and jewels pinned on. Men preferred a clean-shaven face.

The Far East and Africa

Buns Buddha-style was the custom. Young Thai and Burmese boys wore high buns, while Chinese women kept their hair long. Chinese men would braid their locks. In Japan, women grew out their hair. They would pin it up in buns, using flowers, hand-painted combs and hair-stick. Tribal warrior men colored and braided their hair. Often, married women shaved their heads.

Native Americans

Mohawks were made with both fake and real hair, and they believed that more hair meant more wisdom and power.

Western World in the Middle Ages

In the 13th and 14th centuries, women wore simple long hair in waves, braided or in chignons. Veils and hats were fashionable.

Renaissance

In Western Europe, women began dyeing their hair blonde, as this began to be considered beautiful.

Elizabethan Era, 1500s to 1600s

Pale skin and red hair followed the queen’s fashion. Rouge makeup was trendy, as was white facial powder.

18th Century

Wigs were everywhere. Both men and women wore high coiffures. Feathers, jewels and extravaganza adorned.

Victorian Era 1800s to 1900s

Toning down the hair and makeup, more focus was on hygiene. Both men and women sported sleek, oiled hairstyles.

1920s

The popular bob took over, and film stars sparked a fashion trends for heavy eyeliner.

1940s

Slick, shiny waves were all the rage. Bette Davis and Rita Hayworth popularized side-parted hair.

1950s

Women wearing perfect curls greeted their lovers coming home from the war. Hair spray was applied heavily.

1960s

Practicality ruled. Independent, career-focused women went for either the short bob or long straight hair. In the late 60s, hippie hairstyles went untamed and wild.

1970s

Farrah Fawcett’s “wingback” hair was everywhere. Later, spiked punk hairstyles began.

1980s

Neon colors maximized the big hair effect. Women wore their hair shorter, and hairspray still dominated.

1990s

Everyone wanted the “Rachel” shag hair cut from the TV sitcom “Friends,” with layers to frame the face.

2000s

People still take their hair-styling cues from fashion icons. But today, we are freer to think independently and style our hair how we please.

Unfortunately, hair loss has also been an issue throughout all of the eras since the beginning of time. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics hair restoration is our passion. If you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss call us today to schedule a free consultation at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

Photo Credit: Special Collections Toronto Public Library Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

wigsWhile wearing a wig is a great way to try new hairstyles and save some time on daily hair maintenance, many women also use wigs as a way to allow their natural hair a chance to grow. If you’ve experienced significant breakage, hair loss or thinning edges, wearing a wig can be a simple way to reduce stress on your hair. However, you should choose carefully, because the wrong wig and hair care regimen can result in more damage.

Picking the Right Wig

Choosing a premium quality, European human hair wig is the best way to go if you’re concerned about it looking natural or styling it. Be sure to pick the style and color that fit your features. It’s best to bring a close friend or family member along with you so you can get their honest opinion on how it looks. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics we use Private Issue lifestyle custom human hair wigs that our stylists and technicians will custom fit and style for you.

Our customized wigs are fitted with a lightweight cap and hand tied refined materials that conform to your head. At Van Scoy you’ll find much higher quality wigs than store bought brands and our wig stylists are the best hair replacement stylists around.

Caring for Your Natural Hair

To protect your hair underneath a wig, wear it in braids or wrap the hair. At Van Scoy our technicians will appropriately prep your scalp for your fitting. It is very important to work with a professional to choose a protective style that doesn’t put unnecessary stress on your scalp.

Before wearing any wig, make sure your hair is completely dry. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, and damp hair under a wig can create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Wigs can rob hair of its natural moisture, so plan to moisturize your hair every day and deep condition at least once a week. Our stylists and technicians will make sure you are informed on how to care for your scalp and wig before you leave.

When using a wig as part of a protective style, keep in mind there will be some trial and error before you completely perfect your hair care routine. If your hair continues to show signs of new damage after protective styling for several weeks, consult your stylist regarding your particular hair challenges.

Choosing the right wig is important. If you’re suffering from hair loss and are considering a wig come meet with one of our hair restoration specialists. To schedule a free consultation call us today at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

Photo Credit: Leigh Harries Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

Sources:

http://photos.essence.com/galleries/will-my-edges-grow-back-hairline-breakage-thinning-essence-ask-the-experts#347526_347486

http://hairspiration.blogspot.com/2015/02/the-protective-style-wig-faq.html

Every day’s a good day to celebrate your mother, but Mother’s Day is a particularly great time to show the maternal figure in your life just how much she means to you. One of the best ways to show your mom gratitude on Mother’s Day is by pampering her — and treating her to her very own spa day! If your mother suffers from thinning hair, which is common in postmenopausal women, you can throw her a spa celebration that is both relaxing, but also healthy for her hair. Check out some great DIY spa activities for Mother’s Day that can help make for a fun, rejuvenating celebration of motherhood.

Start With a Scalp Treatment

One of the best ways to boost head and scalp health is by using a Jojoba Oil treatment. To make the treatment for your mother, combine 4 ounces of Jojoba oil with 10 drops of rosemary oil and lavender oil, 5 drops of basil oil, and 2 drops of Thyme and Cedarwood essential oil. Then, massage the tonic into her scalp. The tonic should soak into the scalp for about an hour. You can offer your mother a shoulder massage while she waits! Scalp tonics can help stimulate blood flow to the scalp and ensure your mother’s head is properly moisturized.

Shampoo With a Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Once the scalp treatment is completed, you can rinse your mother’s hair out in the sink using a healthy shampoo. Choose a shampoo that is free of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (a common ingredient in many shampoos), since sulfates are known to be harsh on locks — particularly those that have already started thinning. Then, gently massage the shampoo into a lather. Rinse it out with warm water in order to ensure all of the shampoo and tonic have been removed. Your mother’s hair should now be moisturized and clean — and smell delightful, too!

Sip Cucumber Water

No spa day would be complete with a healthy, refreshing glass of cucumber water. An added benefit of cucumber water is that cucumber is traditionally believed to boost hair health. Make the cucumber water the night before by slicing one cucumber, placing the slices at the bottom of a pitcher, and filling the pitcher with water. Refrigerate overnight. Then, when you’re wrapping up your spa day, you can take advantage of the delicious crisp taste, as well as the healthy benefits.

The benefits of throwing a spa day for your mother who is experiencing hair loss is threefold. You can make her feel rested and refreshed, you can help boost the health of her thinning hair, and you can spend some quality time getting closer to someone who deserves to be celebrated!

We all want the best for our moms and if your mom is suffering from hair loss Van Scoy Hair Clinics can help her restore her hair. To schedule a private consultation today call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.
Photo Credit: Unique Hotels Via Flickr Creative Commons

Dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is complicated and stressful, with many manifestations such as trichotillomania (pulling out your own hair) and ablutomania (you simply can’t stop washing your hands). OCD makes you feel scared and panicked, and gives you a horrible pang of doubt that pinches the inside of your stomach. It also makes you feel alone and misunderstood. But if you struggle with OCD, you’re not alone. It’s an indiscriminate affliction that plagues millions – brothers, sisters, parents, teachers, athletes and even celebrities, who face the same fear, panic and doubt.

In 2010, Megan Fox, in a candid interview with Allure, revealed that she suffers from OCD, joining the ranks of other A-listers with the disorder such as Cameron Diaz, Justin Timberlake and Leonardo DiCaprio.

“This is a sickness, I have an illness,” Fox told the magazine.

The Transformers star explained that her OCD manifest in a variety of forms, from an aversion to public restrooms to an inability to use silverware at a restaurant.

“Every time someone uses a bathroom and they flush, all the bacteria is shot into the air,” she said. “(Or) putting my mouth where a million other mouths have been, just knowing all the bacteria that you carry in your mouth? Ucch!”

Fox has the looks, fortune and celebrity status that most of us only achieve in our wildest daydreams – but OCD disorders like trichotillomania levels the playing field, reminding us that behind the movie posters and magazine covers, she’s only human.

“I could go days, weeks, without talking to another human being,” Fox told Allure, describing how the stress of her illness can make isolation appealing.

Today, though, the star is a mother, and the experience has forced her to face things she once thought impossible.

“When they come out they are covered in all kinds of stuff,” she said in an interview with in Touch, talking about childbirth. “I took (Noah) right on my chest and, from that moment, nothing he does freaks me out.”

Knowing the feelings of helplessness OCD can instill in even the most confident person, Fox made the decision that she “(did) not want to give him a complex.” With her characteristic determination and newfound strength, she managed to overcome what once felt as much a part of her as her skin.

OCD is a mountain – tall and jagged with its peak hidden in the clouds. It can be terrifying. It can seem insurmountable. It’s not. With treatment and hope, OCD can shrink from Everest to an anthill; and you can walk right over it.
If you are struggling with the disorder trichotillomania Van Scoy Hair Clinics specialize in hair restoration and offer several hair replacement options to fit your needs. To schedule a free consultation call (419) 289-6665 or contact us via email by clicking here.

Photo Credit: 2 TOP Via Flickr Creative Commons

Deciding to use wigs and toupees is tough for many men, as they’re often concerned with wearing the one that does not look natural. However, the right hair system can make thinning hair look youthful and lush. That’s why many of Hollywood’s leading men use hair systems. If hair systems are good enough for these five men in the public eye, then they can work for you, too!

John Travolta

We all remember “Saturday Night Fever,” during which Travolta danced at discos while showing off a luscious mane of hair. Unfortunately for him, age has thinned those once-beloved locks. A hair system have helped Travolta combat Father Time skillfully, though.

Whether he’s playing Vincent Vega in “Pulp Fiction” or sporting a sparkling salt-and-pepper look for “The Forger,” hair systems have allowed Travolta to continue to land leading roles well into his 60s.

Nicolas Cage

There are obvious parallels to Travolta, as Cage is roughly the same age with a similar resume. They even starred together in the 1997 thriller “Face/Off.” Like his co-star, Cage also has used hair systems when playing certain characters.
While Cage has been open to playing roles that expose his hair loss, he’s definitely rocked a hair system in movies such as “Con-Air.” Anyone who’s seen that movie knows his long locks were way more believable than his Southern accent.

Robert Pattinson

Not all stars who wear hair systems are “old,” as the 29-year-old Pattinson has been fighting hair loss since his early 20s. You wouldn’t know it from watching the Twilight movies, but being Team Edward means being Team hair system.
Pattinson pulls off his hair skillfully, as evidenced by the adoration of millions of teenage girls. Odds are his adoring masses have no idea that he has hair loss.

Ben Affleck

By now you’ve seen commercials for the new “Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice” movie, where Affleck skillfully projects Bruce Wayne’s wealth and extravagance while sporting striking dark hair.
The truth is Affleck has been losing hair since his “Good Will Hunting” days and uses hair systems in almost all of his roles. That hasn’t stopped him from dating the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez and Jennifer Garner, though!

Matthew McConaughey

All right, all right, all right. When thinking of McConaughey, you probably envision a calm, cool and collected Texan who sweeps women off their feet with his earthy attitude and rugged good looks, which are definitely helped by his blonde, luscious locks.
McConaughey’s hair isn’t natural, though, as he was discovered wearing a hair system as early as 1999. The actor hasn’t had trouble getting dates or roles in the 17 years since, showing the true power of good hair.

Non-Surgical Hair System for You

Van Scoy Hair Clinics offers fully customized hair systems for both men and women. The best part about a non-surgical hair system is it looks and acts like your own growing hair. You can swim, exercise, and even sleep with it. Call us (419) 289-6665 for a free consultation or contact us through our website by clicking here.

We’ve received a number of inquiries from people coming into our clinic about Trichology, and what a Trichologist does.  So we thought it might be helpful if we posted an article on trichology to give you an idea what it is.

Alopecia areata

Alopecia Areata

Trichology is a subset of dermatology and refers to the study of hair and scalp problems and specifically hair and scalp health. A ‘trichologist’ is someone who specializes in problems of the hair and scalp, and especially hair loss problems such as hair breakage, itchy/flaking scalp and baldness. They also treat all forms of alopecia, including alopecia areata.

You can think of a trichologist as a hair and scalp ‘doctor’. This type of specialists is someone you might consult instead of visiting your general practitioner, particularly if the problem or condition they are experiencing is more specific, such as persistent hair fall, itching and redness of the scalp, etc.

A trichologist will typically perform a thorough intake examination and will go over your medical history, and gather information about your lifestyle, including your diet, stress and other factors, and conduct a thorough examination your hair and/or scalp.

Hair Loss and Hair Loss Treatment

Did you know your hair is an indicator of your over all general health? Hair that is dull and lifeless can often suggest a stressed, unhealthy lifestyle, while hair that is full and shiny can often indicate overall good health. This is only one of the many factors a trichologist may consider when prescribing a course of treatment.

Many people don’t just see a trichologist for hair loss issues but also for advice on keeping their hair and scalp in tip top shape to try and reduce the risk of hair loss.

Hair loss can cause a lot of distress, and there are often misunderstandings about its causes and treatments. Probably the most common type of hair loss is the so-called ‘male pattern baldness’ which, despite its name, can also affect women as a general overall thinning.  While there is no specific, readily-available treatment, it is a problem that requires sympathetic handling, and a qualified hair loss specialist has the experience to understand each individuals anxiety and help him or her understand the type of hair loss they are experiencing and develop an effective strategy to of hair loss treatment or hair restoration.

Van Scoy Hair Clinics in Cleveland, Columbus and Ashland, Ohio offers all proven hair loss treatment, hair replacement and hair restoration options for men, women and children. If you are experiencing hair loss or balding and exploring the various treatment options available to you, we invite you to schedule a free consultation at one of our offices at your convenience. You may reach us at (866) 601-6599 or to contact us via email. You may also request a consultation by clicking here.