What is Hair Miniaturization?

Before looking at the science behind hair miniaturization mapping, it’s essential to understand hair miniaturization. Miniaturization describes the phenomenon in which hair strands become shorter and thinner, and miniaturized hairs don’t grow as quickly as thick, healthy follicles do. Miniaturized strands of hair often become more weak and brittle as well. The miniaturization process is a gradual one, and strands of hair may begin by losing only 10% of their diameter, but over time they may lose 20%, 30%, or 50% of their diameter.

Over time, hair miniaturization results in hair that appears thin and lackluster, and it’s possible for these hairs to stop growing completely. Some of the causes of hair miniaturization include genetics, nutritional deficiencies, and aging. DHT and telogen effluvium, a disorder in which hair enters the resting phase prematurely, also have the ability to cause miniaturization.

Hair Miniaturization Mapping – How it Works

Hair miniaturization mapping involves viewing the hair on the scalp using high magnification. Many practitioners use video densitometers (video microscopes) to map and digitally photograph various areas on the scalp. Areas that reflect non-balding and balding areas are mapped for comparison. Since this technique involves relative measurements, practitioners using the procedure must have substantial experience using the technique.

By mapping the scalp, it’s possible to see how far balding has progressed. This technique also has the ability to predict future hair loss, predicting the areas in which the most hair loss will occur. Evaluating current hair loss and predicting future hair loss can help establish guidelines for hair loss treatment. Once hair loss treatments are being used, hair miniaturization mapping can also be used to measure the effectiveness of the current treatment.

Hair miniaturization mapping is fast and easy, and individuals suffering from hair loss or thinning hair should have mapping done by an experienced professional before deciding on the appropriate treatment for current and future hair loss.