Question:
What's the best thing to prevent/stop hair loss??

I am about 5 months post-op and just recently started noticing hair loss especially after my hair is wet. I'm afraid to wash it too much and it seems to be getting worse? It can't be due to a lack of protein since I eat plenty of protein. HELP!!!    — Emely H. (posted on June 22, 2005)

June 22, 2005
It is nut unusual that patients experience some hair loss post surgery, however, by the time you notice it, your hair follicles are already recovering. You should experience a new resurgence of your hair, in fact some of my clients (I am a counsellor for obesity surgery) have told me that their hair is better than it ever was before the surgery! Butyou can do something to help, be spot on with your vitamin and mineral supplementation as this is a very sressfull time for your body while it is trying to adapt to fewer calories. You body will prioritise things and maybe your hair gets the last attention. When was the last time you had your Labs done? you may be a touch low in zinc. Also you should remember if you had gastric bypass then you will need to adjust your supplements to a different level, as you do not absorb them the same as an ordinary person. I had to double up and take them more often rather than the once a day reccommendation. It is a bit of a juggle for a start, but by keeping a diary and taking a note of these things you will see that things are dramaticaly improving. All of your major body organs will thank you as the job of running a large body gets easier as you reduce in weight. You will look in the mirror and love who you see smiling back at you. Yes you will smile. Don';t forget keep up the surgeon visits, this is essential for life!
   — Lise K.

June 22, 2005
I agree with all the suggestions already posted here, but in addition you may want to try adding some "Biotin" supplement and using the "Nioxin" shampoo. Both can be purchased at your WalMart stores. Get the Nioxin shampoo at their beauty salon, and the Biotin in the pharmacy section. I've been using both of these since before my surgery and my hair loss has been very minimal, actually only a little bit more than what I ordinarily shed in the springtime anyway. I've also recently been introduced to the web site livingafterwls.com where I found an article on hair loss that was very useful. Perhaps you could try reading that if you haven't already. Just remember that it is an expected part of this surgery, but you can do somethings to help minimize it. Good luck. Meta
   — MetaP

June 22, 2005
I agree with all the suggestions already posted here, but in addition you may want to try adding some "Biotin" supplement and using the "Nioxin" shampoo. Both can be purchased at your WalMart stores. Get the Nioxin shampoo at their beauty salon, and the Biotin in the pharmacy section. I've been using both of these since before my surgery and my hair loss has been very minimal, actually only a little bit more than what I ordinarily shed in the springtime anyway. I've also recently been introduced to the web site livingafterwls.com where I found an article on hair loss that was very useful. Perhaps you could try reading that if you haven't already. Just remember that it is an expected part of this surgery, but you can do somethings to help minimize it. Good luck. Meta
   — MetaP

June 23, 2005
unfortunatly there isnt alot you can do you can try buying nixion shampoo at the salon but its expensive and prolly wont help at that much. Lots of post ops experience this and its due to the weight loss and shock and less food etc etc... the hair shaft dies off but in about 90 says youll notice it growing back like a fine baby hair. Dont worry too too much it will grow back...
   — deborahdgale

June 25, 2005
My support group just had a night on vitamins and the vitamin supplement Hair, Skin and Nails was recommended. It can be found at many health food stores in a pink box, but I got mine at Target. I have not used it yet, as I am just 3 days post-op, but it was recommended. It contains Biotin and other vitamins.
   — Missy B.