HAIR LOSS

A health care book offers a voluminous exploration of hair loss.

This scrupulously researched second edition by Gomez, a medical/business book author and former health care executive, may well be regarded by the medical community as a definitive resource on hair loss. Reviewed by two medical professionals and with extensive references, the book offers 19 chapters that cover the topic in detail. The first nine chapters concern hair growth, male and female hair loss, and the effects of heredity, hormones, aging, and scalp conditions on hair loss. In addition, there are two chapters providing historical overviews of hair-loss treatments and surgical restoration methods. This first half of the book is clearly intended for medical professionals. The remainder of the volume concentrates largely on methods of treating hair loss, which include hair restoration and transplantation, various types of surgery, nonsurgical replacement/restoration, and topical treatments. Also included are chapters about the physician-patient relationship, hair care, nutrition, gray hair, and “future trends in hair restoration solutions.” While the book’s second half retains its medical terminology and is therefore most appropriate for health care professionals, it could just as easily be informative to anyone who suffers from hair loss. For example, there is an excellent, if technical, comparison of the three primary hair restoration/transplantation methods that includes helpful illustrations from various sources and a table. Information about topical treatments should be relevant to consumers as well, particularly the thorough section regarding minoxidil (Rogaine). Both the hair care and hair nutrition chapters contain tips that could be very useful to any reader. A discussion of the initial consultation between physician and patient provides insights into potential hair-loss treatment concerns. The author even includes hair transplant/graft cost estimates. At various times, Gomez urges caution in proceeding with hair-loss treatments. For instance, in discussing methods to improve scalp circulation, he writes: “The objective of all these treatment modalities is to separate the consumer from their hard-earned money.” A concluding chapter that explores advances in biosciences, such as hair cloning and multiplication, should fascinate medical professionals and interested readers alike.

Intelligently organized, competently written, and comprehensive advice on hair loss.