Dr. Candace Spann gives new hope to women suffering from hair loss

Image courtesy of Dr. Candace Spann

Hair loss is not an easy subject to talk about, especially for women. From almost the beginning of time, men have had access to wigs, transplants and medications to help deal with their challenged follicles. Women on the other hand have hidden the problem with wigs, hair extensions and hats, never really treating the underlying problem.

After suffering her own bout with hair loss, Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Candace Spann set out to create a regrowth product especially for women. After several successful clinical trials, ReTress was ready to hit the market. The four part system includes shampoo, conditioner, serum and supplements and is available at beauty retailer Sephora. Here is her take on how to navigate the world of women's growth products.

Christa Emmer: We all remember the popular Hair Club for Men commercials that clogged up the airways, but we never really heard any mention about hair loss for women. Why do you think women are more comfortable talking about it?

Dr. Spann: Hair loss is not solely a male problem. Because we know the cause of men's hair loss, it tends to be easier to treat. In addition, men's hair loss tends to be localized, whereas women's hair loss is diffuse. This makes men better candidates for hair transplantation. Since 40% of the hair loss market is now female, women suffering with thinning hair are finally starting to receive the attention they deserve. With ReTress, we are focusing on the issues that affect women. ReTress uses all natural active ingredients to stimulate follicles by helping improve blood flow to the scalp, helping calm inflammation in the scalp, and helping to reduce the shedding (so you can keep the hair you have!). Our vitamin also gives support to the follicles to improve their vitality.

Christa Emmer: What would you classify as 'hair loss that requires treatment' and what are some of the causes?

Dr. Spann: Any hair loss that results in perceived thinning by the client qualifies as "hair loss that requires treatment." It's important for us to realize that we will not recognize a woman's hair as thinning until she has lost 50 percent of her hair. Since this is such an emotionally devastating problem, we do a disservice to her if we invalidate her concerns. Whether she is worried about excessive shedding, has noticed a decreased density in her hair, has hair loss related to underlying medical problems, stress, childbirth, or styling practices, we should be helpful in the treatment.

Christa Emmer: What kind of results should you expect from an over-the-counter hair replenishing product?

Dr. Spann: With ReTress, most clients start to like the way their hair looks within the first week. The volumizers, conditioners, and thickeners help to improve the appearance of the hair very quickly. Active shedding is usually dramatically reduced within approximately 4 weeks. By about 8 weeks of use, the density starts to improve. By 12-16 weeks, friends and family are typically noticing the improvement in the appearance and volume of hair.

Christa Emmer: Is there an easy way to breach the subject with a friend or family member that looks like they could benefit from treatment?

Dr. Spann: We never want to alienate anyone, so this is a topic that must be approached delicately. Sharing a personal story or concern about your own hair shedding is a good way to invite someone to open up about their experience. Most women who are thinning are aware that they are thinning and will jump at the chance to start talking about it, if they are approached gently.

Source: Dr. Candace Spann gives new hope to women suffering from hair loss