The Complete Guide to Hair Thinning and Scalp Health: Medical Insights from a Manchester Aesthetics Clinic
- dranataliamoore
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
By Dr. Anatalia Moore, GP and Aesthetics Specialist – Manchester, UK
Introduction: Why Hair Health Matters
At my Manchester aesthetics clinic, I understand just how important hair is to your identity. Whether it's long and flowing or short and sharp, our hair expresses personality, style, and confidence. But when hair begins to thin, the impact can be deeply personal and emotional, for both men and women.
While we often associate hair loss with ageing, it can happen at any time due to a wide variety of internal and external factors. This blog will guide you through the real medical reasons behind hair thinning, how to protect your scalp, and what evidence-based treatments are available right here in Manchester.
Understanding Hair Thinning: It's More Than Just Genetics
1. Genetic Factors
One of the most common causes of hair thinning is genetics. Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and male pattern baldness are both hereditary conditions. These can begin as early as your 30s and often show up around the hairline, crown, or temples.
Hormonal changes, such as those seen in peri menopause, menopause, or postpartum recovery, can worsen genetic thinning. At my clinic, I always assess hormonal health alongside family history to develop a holistic treatment plan.
2. Hormones, Stress, and Life Stages
Hormonal shifts (like those in menopause or after childbirth) not only influence hair thinning but can also reduce the body’s ability to cope with stress and sleep loss. These changes compound the issue, causing:
Slowed hair growth
Increased hair shedding
Weakened scalp health
I recommend exploring HRT for menopausal women and supporting postpartum recovery with targeted nutrients and stress reduction techniques.
3. Stress and Sleep: The Silent Hair Saboteurs
Chronic, low-grade stress is one of the most underestimated causes of diffuse hair loss across the scalp. Even when it doesn't feel acute, prolonged stress triggers inflammation and reduces the number of hairs in the active growth phase.
Lack of sleep worsens this by inhibiting cell repair throughout the body, including in the scalp.
Tip: Try incorporating magnesium supplements, mindfulness routines, and sleep hygiene practices. These simple changes can noticeably boost hair regrowth.
4. Scalp Health: A Healthy Scalp = Healthier Hair
Inflamed or irritated scalps contribute significantly to hair loss. This could be due to:
Dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis
Fungal infections (e.g., yeast overgrowth)
Psoriasis
Product buildup or incorrect hair washing technique
Professional tip: Wash hair with warm (not hot) water. Use your fingertips to cleanse the scalp, rinse thoroughly, and avoid harsh sulphates. I recommend scalp-friendly shampoos containing ingredients like:
Ceramides
Niacinamide
Lactic Acid
Salicylic Acid (for flakes)
If you’re unsure, visit your GP or speak with a clinical aesthetics specialist to differentiate between fungal vs inflammatory scalp conditions.
5. Environmental Factors: The Summer Hair Stressor
During summer in the UK, increased UVA/UVB and infrared exposure can weaken the scalp and lead to further thinning. UV rays penetrate deep into the dermis, affecting the follicles directly.
Summer Hair Tips:
Wear UV-protective hats
Avoid tight hairstyles (which cause traction alopecia)
Minimise heat styling
Use scalp-repairing hair masks and conditioners
Protect your scalp from UV damage with a hat and lightweight SPF scalp mist.
6. Nutrient Deficiencies and Internal Health
Your hair is a reflection of your internal well-being. Nutrient deficiencies are often silent contributors to hair thinning.
Key nutrients for hair growth:
Vitamin D (especially important in the UK)
Magnesium
Zinc
Iron (especially in menstruating women)
Omega 3
Biotin
Folate
We recommend all patients take Vitamin D, Magnesium and Omega-3 supplements routinely. For others, personalised testing and tailored supplementation can provide life-changing results, particularly for perimenopausal and vegan/vegetarian patients.
7. Medical Conditions That Affect Hair
Hair loss can be an early sign of:
Thyroid dysfunction
Iron deficiency anaemia
Autoimmune disorders (like lupus or alopecia areata)
PCOS (especially if combined with facial hair growth)
I recommend visiting your Manchester GP or aesthetic doctor for blood testing if hair loss is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
If lifestyle changes and nutrition are already optimised, I may recommend clinically proven treatments to stimulate regrowth and improve scalp health.
Treatments I offer:
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy stimulates dormant follicles using growth factors from your own blood.
Microneedling with Hair Serums boosts absorption of actives into the scalp and promotes healing.
Biostimulatory Injectables (e.g., Polynucleotides) improve tissue quality and scalp resilience.
Medical-Grade LED Light Therapy Encourages follicle regeneration and reduces inflammation.
9. Minoxidil: The Classic Regrowth Solution
Minoxidil works by stimulating blood flow and pushing hairs from the resting to the growth phase. However, it must be used consistently to see results and maintain them. Sudden discontinuation may cause rebound shedding.
10. Final Word: A Whole-Body Approach
My philosophy at Dr Anatalia Aesthetics is that healthy hair begins from within. By optimising nutrition, stress, sleep, and scalp health, I help my patients in Manchester unlock natural, sustainable hair regrowth at every stage of life.
If you're experiencing hair thinning or scalp issues, I'm here to help you develop a bespoke plan tailored to your body, lifestyle, and goals.
📍 Book a Consultation in Manchester Today
If you're ready to take the first step towards healthier, fuller hair, book a consultation at my Manchester aesthetics clinic. I provide science-backed advice, advanced treatments, and long-term care for lasting results.
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