Prednisone is a steroid commonly used to treat inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions or allergies. It works by limiting the body’s immune response. Prednisone can be a useful treatment for arthritis, psoriasis, asthma, ulcerative colitis, anemia, and other allergic reactions. Though prednisone can be a quick and effective treatment for some, it is accompanied by some adverse effects.
Common side effects for those who take prednisone include weight gain, trouble sleeping, mood swings, loss in bone density, facial swelling, hair thinning, and hair loss. Because prednisone can truly be helpful in treating inflammatory health conditions, it is worthwhile for many people to find ways to cope with the adverse side effects.
Taking a dietary supplement like calcium can help offset the effects of loss of bone density. For those who experience bloating, reducing salt intake can help lessen the amount of additional water retained. Working with your physician to find the right time to take prednisone and pairing it with food is also a useful way to offset gastrointestinal distress. Unfortunately, treating hair loss and hair thinning can be a bit more complicated.
Understanding Steroid-Induced Hair Loss
Prednisone causes hair loss in some people by raising levels of an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a naturally occurring byproduct of testosterone. Those who lose hair due to risen levels of DHT typically have an underlying genetic sensitivity to the hormone. Though men are typically more susceptible, women can experience hair loss due to prednisone intake as well. In the event that hair loss is linked to rising levels of DHT, there are DHT-blocking shampoos and medicines that can prevent the body’s overproduction of this hormone.
If you believe that your hair has fallen out after taking prednisone or another steroid, there are steps that you can take to attempt to recover the hair that you’ve lost. The team at Hairline Ink understands how frustrating it can be to experience thinning hair. If you are interested in permanently remedying the appearance of lost hair, we are ready to discuss how scalp micropigmentation may be a good option for you. We offer Scalp Micropigmentation in over 50 US cities. Call or text us today at 833-HAIR-INK (833-424-7465) to schedule an appointment, learn about our pricing, or get a free quote!
