So Many Hair Loss Patients, Does Black Beans Really Prevent Hair Loss?
Recently, the number of people suffering from hair loss has been rapidly increasing. As people age, regardless of gender, hair loss begins at the front hairline and crown, and the hair gradually becomes thinner, causing the hairline to recede. These symptoms are especially noticeable in people in their 30s and 40s. When hair loss leads to a visible scalp, it can cause anxiety about appearance and decrease self-esteem. As a result, interest in methods to prevent and reduce hair loss is growing, and one of the popular claims is that black beans are effective for preventing hair loss. But are black beans really effective in preventing hair loss? And what other factors should be considered for hair loss prevention?
Hair Loss Patients: Little Difference Between Men and Women, Most Prevalent in 40s
The number of people visiting hospitals for hair loss treatment is steadily increasing every year. According to data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, about 248,000 people sought hair loss treatment in 2022, up from 225,000 in 2018, showing an annual growth rate of 2.5%. The notable point is that there is little difference in gender among hair loss patients. While 55.4% of patients are men, 44.6% are women, indicating that both men and women suffer from hair loss.
Particularly, those in their 40s make up the largest proportion of hair loss patients, accounting for about 22.5%. This is largely due to the physical stress and hormonal changes experienced during this time. As hair loss symptoms can become more prominent with aging, early prevention and management are important.
Causes of Hair Loss: The Role of Genetics and Male Hormones
The primary cause of hair loss is genetic factors. Especially in the case of male pattern baldness, it is strongly influenced by genetics, and the male hormone androgen plays a significant role. Androgen shortens the hair follicle growth cycle and shrinks the hair follicles, making the hair thinner. This leads to thinning and loss of hair, particularly at the front hairline and crown.
Genetic factors can be predicted through the hair loss history of parents or grandparents, and both paternal and maternal sides can influence hair loss. Male pattern baldness is characterized by gradual shortening and thinning of hair at the front and crown, though the hair at the back of the head often remains. This is because the hair follicles at the front and crown are more sensitive to androgens.
The Importance of Medication: Topical vs. Oral Treatments
Medication is a common approach to treating hair loss. The most commonly used treatments are minoxidil (topical) and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride).
Minoxidil extends the hair growth phase and thickens the hair, helping to slow hair loss progression. However, it does not create new hair follicles, and if discontinued, the hair will return to its original state within 3 to 6 months. Additionally, it can cause side effects such as contact dermatitis at the application site or increased hair growth in nearby areas.
Finasteride and dutasteride work by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which reduces the production of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Studies have shown that finasteride is effective for over 90% of patients, while the rest still experience a slowing of hair loss. However, these medications are not recommended for women of childbearing age, as they can affect the development of fetal genitalia.
Hair Loss Treatment for Women
Female hair loss manifests differently from male hair loss. Female pattern hair loss is typically characterized by thinning or reduced density of hair at the crown, while the front hairline often remains intact. Female hair loss can be influenced by genetic factors and small amounts of male hormones produced by the ovaries or adrenal glands.
Women can use topical treatments such as minoxidil or alpha-tradiol, and post-menopausal women can also use 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. Oral minoxidil is used in some cases, but more research is needed on its safety and effectiveness. Additionally, while vitamins and supplements can help prevent hair loss, they do not cure it on their own.
Why Black Beans Are Good for Hair Loss Prevention
There is much talk about the effectiveness of black beans in preventing hair loss. Black beans are rich in isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen, also known as plant-based estrogen. Isoflavones inhibit 5-alpha reductase, reducing DHT production and potentially aiding in the prevention of hair loss.
Additionally, black beans are rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, which help maintain scalp health and promote hair growth. The high amount of cysteine found in black beans is also important, as cysteine is a key amino acid in the formation of keratin, the main component of hair. Cysteine helps keep hair strong and repairs damaged hair.
However, consuming black beans alone will not completely restore already progressed hair loss. Black beans are more effective for prevention and show the best results when consumed consistently before hair loss begins. Once hair loss has progressed, black beans alone have limitations, and professional treatment should be combined.
Lifestyle Changes for Hair Loss Prevention
Preventing hair loss requires more than just medication or consuming black beans. Lifestyle improvements are also crucial. Hair loss can be influenced by external factors such as stress, poor nutrition, and irregular habits, so maintaining a regular lifestyle and managing stress are essential. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can significantly help in preventing hair loss.
Foods rich in vitamin D, zinc, and iron are particularly beneficial for hair health. Keeping the scalp clean and using scalp massages to promote blood circulation can also be helpful. Additionally, using hair loss prevention shampoos or scalp care products can play a supportive role in hair loss prevention.
Long-Term Management and Maintenance of Hair Loss Treatment
Hair loss is a condition that requires long-term management. Even after starting medication, consistent use is necessary, and discontinuing treatment may lead to resumed hair loss. The goal of hair loss treatment is not to create new hair but to slow the progression of hair loss and alleviate symptoms. Therefore, it is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits while undergoing treatment from a long-term perspective.
In conclusion, while black beans can help prevent hair loss, there are limitations to fully restoring already progressed hair loss. For those with a family history of hair loss, early prevention and management are crucial. Combining various methods such as medication, consuming black beans, and scalp care is the best approach for long-term hair loss management.
