Health

What Other Methods Are There For Hair Treatment?

Published

4 years ago

May 18, 2021

Finding a solution that is effective for thinning hair can mean a lot of trial and error when using over the counter products. From hair thickening shampoos and essential oils to vitamin supplements, finding one that works for those experiencing hair loss may take time and may not provide the desired results. Depending on the level of hair loss being experienced, other methods can provide effective results. If you are someone that has tried different remedies to no success, here are other hair treatments that may help.

Advanced Hair Transplantation

Undergoing surgery to improve a thinning hairline may seem drastic to some, but with modern advancements in hair transplants, the results can be natural-looking and help to reverse the signs of ageing. Whilst a traditional hair transplant may leave obvious scarring or tell-tale signs of treatment, the procedure has seen vast improvements to minimise this. One method, in particular, is minimally invasive and involves no surgical cutting of the skin: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE). A popular choice for medical tourists travelling to Turkey, a hair transplant in Istanbul using the FUE technique involves individual hair follicles being precisely removed from a healthy growth area. These individual hair grafts are then transplanted to the area of hair loss and can follow the hair’s natural direction of growth. This type of hair transplant has minimal downtime and doesn’t involve surgically removing a strip of skin, such as found with other hair transplant techniques.

Medication

Depending on the root cause of hair loss, some non-prescription medication can help. For someone suffering from alopecia areata, where patchy hair loss can occur on the scalp and various areas of the body, the hair could regrow in time if stress-related and not require any additional treatment. Medication such as Rogaine can help stimulate hair growth if this is a concern and works by massaging it into the scalp on a daily or twice-daily basis. This method can take time to show results, sometimes up to 6 months, and may only slow the rate of hair loss rather than reverse it but can be ideal if the hair loss is not permanent. Propecia is another medication for men in the form of a prescription pill. Similar results can be expected of either regrowth in the areas of hair loss or the slowing down of hair loss overall.

Laser Therapy

A different method completely to medication and surgery is the use of laser light therapy for hair loss. This uses red light at a lowlevel to enhance the blood circulation to the hair follicles. A safe and less invasive treatment, laser therapy can target an area of hair loss and if used alongside other treatment products, can help hair to regrow naturally. Results can take time to show due to this and may need multiple treatment sessions over a few months depending on the aesthetic an individual is looking for. Ideal for those in the early stages of hair thinning or hair loss, it is not an effective option for those with permanent hair loss and can be expensive to undergo.

For those experiencing the early stages of hair lossto permanent loss of hair on the scalp, having a consultation with a doctor or clinic is always recommended as a first step. This way, the hair loss can be assessed properly and the right treatment, whether it’s surgery, medication, or laser therapy, can be advised, helping restore an individual’s hair confidence once again.

Health

How Telehealth Works for Addicts in Recovery

Published

8 hours ago

March 6, 2025

Michelle Langton

Technology has been shaping healthcare for decades, and these days, tech advancements for the health sector are happening faster than ever before. Telehealth has emerged as one advancement that has touched every healthcare discipline, from cancer care to pediatrics. The innovative approach of telehealth is breaking down barriers to care and even reaching those who are struggling with substance abuse.

By leveraging digital platforms, recovery specialists can offer better access to therapy sessions, support groups, and medical consultations. These breakthroughs in accessibility are significant for people in healthcare deserts who are languishing under increased addiction rates and a lack of reliable treatment options.

Nick Padlo, founder and CEO of Sophros Recovery in Florida, has seen the benefit of telehealth for recovering addicts firsthand. “Individuals struggling with addiction can now find support and guidance if they do not have access to a treatment center near their home,” he explains. “These virtual programs are designed to provide comprehensive care, similar to traditional in-person treatment, but with the added convenience of digital accessibility.”

Here, we explore the benefits of telehealth for recovery and how clinicians and other professionals in the field can best utilize it for better outcomes.

An increased need for comprehensive recovery

The United States saw over 107,000 overdose deaths in 2023. This was a notable increase from previous numbers. The emergence of fentanyl as the drug of choice for many and the perpetuation of alcohol and other drug abuses have made access to comprehensive recovery even more important than ever.

“Understanding the options available can be the first step to recovery,” says Padlo. When people have easier access to help, they may be more apt to seek sobriety.

The pandemic saw a marked increase in substance abuse, laying bare the need for digital access to recovery resources. During the COVID shutdown, the crucial need for an alternative to in-person treatment was evident, and the benefits of such treatment options allowed clinicians and other professionals to carry this digital access to recovery care through the pandemic and into the post-COVID world.

In addition, those living in rural areas or areas with a lack of access to comprehensive recovery care often have needs on par with those in larger urban areas. Telehealth allows people to access the same professionals that those in big cities rely upon.

Studies have shown that continuity of care is critical to the success of addiction recovery. Telehealth can facilitate ongoing engagement with those in recovery, securing continuity of care and leading to better recovery outcomes.

A modern approach

“Online addiction recovery typically involves a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, educational sessions, and support groups, all conducted via video conferencing or other online tools,” explains Padlo. The flexibility of these programs allows participants to schedule them around their availability and considering their other commitments.

“We aim to mirror the effectiveness of traditional methods,” says Padlo. “We are providing the same level of care and support through a virtual format.”

Padlo stresses that online recovery can also reduce stigmas that are associated with seeking help for one’s addictions. When those in recovery can participate from the comfort of their own home, they may be more apt to commit to the recovery process.

People will need to consider their personal circumstances when determining if telehealth for addiction recovery is right for them. They may want to evaluate how comfortable they are with technology and whether they have a stable internet connection. Also, it helps to have a strong support system to keep one accountable since it can sometimes be easier to ignore digital meeting commitments.

However, Padlo cautions that those with severe addiction issues or co-occurring addictions may fare better with in-person detox and recovery.

Telehealth can be a powerful tool in the fight against addiction. The option offers a range of benefits, including easier access, privacy, and even savings for some. According to a recent study by the Oregon Health and Science University, telehealth may be just the solution to overcoming the stigma of rehab and recovery and radically reducing barriers for people who need it the most.

While telehealth for addiction recovery may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, and some people may require more intensive care and medical intervention, it has broken barriers for those in areas of limited access to recovery or seeking an option that offers more privacy.

As the field of virtual health delivery continues to evolve, the benefits of telehealth for addiction recovery will become clear. Telehealth provides comprehensive, discrete, and effective care for those starting or continuing their recovery journey.