First NHS Child Hair Loss Clinic Opens

is usually associated with adults, especially those of advancing years. However hair loss can be caused by a number of different factors, meaning that even children and teenagers are susceptible.

A new NHS clinic, the first of its kind in the UK, has been opened specifically to treat hair loss in children. Attached to St Thomas’ hospital in London, St John’s Institute of Dermatology will treat children for a range of conditions including Alopecia Areata and Trichotillomania (a condition which sees people pulling their own hair out). Experts will also be on hand to assist with other causes of hair loss such as vitamin deficiencies and the side effects of chemotherapy.

St John’s Institute will see approximately 70 young people each year, working to treat hair loss symptoms, and counter any associated self-confidence or psychological issues. The clinic will also work with other scalp and skin-related conditions such as psoriasis.

Dr Fenton who will be heading up the service believes that his clinic will offer more than simple hair loss treatment. “Hair loss can affect anybody at any age, and can have a devastating effect on people’s lives. Children and their families deserve special attention because children have additional needs,” he told the London Evening Standard.

The good news for most children experiencing hair loss is that the condition is usually temporary. Alopecia Areata may result in a sudden loss of hair, or the development of large bald patches, but the hair typically grows back naturally over the course of a year.

There is not yet any word about the treatments on offer from St John’s Institute, but they are unlikely to include hair growth medications as there are none currently approved for use with children. However, by taking a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, the specialists will be able to help their young patients adjust diet and lifestyle to promote natural hair growth unaided.