HPI Takes Care of Hair & Hearts

Posted on January 26, 2012 by Sheryl

On my desk at HPI, I have a small flip book with various quotes.  Some are meant to lighten the day with a laugh.  Other words of wisdom inspire me.  The quote I flipped to yesterday described our staff completely.

“It’s a rare person who can take care of hearts while also taking care of business.”

While I’m sure this philosphy applies to many avenues, it just struck me that this is the core of what we do. 

Women associate their hair directly to their femininity and beauty.  When genetics or medical treatments cause the hair to shed, it adversely affects a woman’s identity, self-esteem and self-confidence.   It’s not unusual for a previously outgoing woman to become socially withdrawn and always self-conscious of her appearance when faced with female pattern thinning, alopecia or any other hair loss disorder. 

HPI is an expert in the hair restoration business, but it’s the caring staff of Hair Prosthesis Institute that makes the experience special.  They not only restore the hair of women and children, but also nurture the emotions surrounded with their particular hair loss problem. 

The smiles of our clients, watching the self-confidence re-emerge as they leave our salon is a priceless reward to us.  It’s in that moment we know we have taken care of our business of hair, but also of someone’s heart.

 

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Look Good, Feel Better – It’s a Group Effort

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Sheryl

 

Hair Prosthesis Institute has long held to the philosphy that when you look good on the outside, you feel better on the inside.

While it’s important for the self-esteem of every woman with hair loss, it’s never more crucial than for women battling cancer.   Imagine dealing with the emotional issue of losing your hair while also fighting for your life…a bit overwhelming, isn’t it?

Many women that are about to start chemo treatments consult with HPI before losing their hair to protect their privacy.  How do you ask?  By ensuring they can get a style and color the same as their natural growth hair, it helps to continue looking like themselves, keeping co-workers and aquaintences usually from even noticing they are sick.  Less disruption and personally invasive questions, the easier it makes it for women who wish to keep their personal issues private.

The more HPI can help women look like themselves,  the more energy they can devote to healing and less to being self-conscious about the way they look.  Hair may be the most noticeable beauty asset affected by chemo treatments, but there’s more that can be done.

I want to share an article that was published in our local paper this past week regarding the organization Look Good, Feel Better.  They provide group beauty sessions for women undergoing chemo treatments.  These free classes are typically held during a lunch hour in different locations periodically around the area.

Click here to read the complete article.

Posted in Baldness, Breast Cancer, cancer, Chemotherapy, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute, medical hair loss, Wigs, women's hair loss, women's hair replacement | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Is Barbie Going Bald?

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Sheryl

Hair Prosthesis Institute is an expert in non-surgical hair replacement for women and children.  It’s particularly rewarding to see a child’s self esteem begin to be restored as they leave their appointment with hair.

So, it’s in the interest of children with hair loss, especially girls, that the maker of Barbie dolls, Mattel, is being pressured to create a bald Barbie.  This version would relate to children losing hair from not only cancer treatments, but alopecia and trichotillomania.

I grew up playing with Barbie dolls, but I don’t recall there being many choices.   I think my sister had Olympic Gymnist Barbie.    I was perfectly happy with Malibu Barbie.  That’s the one my friends had and for me at the time, that’s what it was all about. 

As far as identifying with our Barbies, trust me when I say that my sister and I were about as far removed from a Malibu beach babe and gymnastic star as two little Tennessee girls could have been.  But we enjoyed the fantasy world and companionship that our Barbies provided.

Since then, Barbie’s persona has become a bit more real.  Sure, there’s still the princess and fairy versions, but keeping them company on the store shelves are Doctor Barbie, Teacher Barbie, Marine biologis Barbie, Nurse Barbie and thousands of sold-separately accessories. 

Is this public request going too far or is it time to add another Barbie version to the shelf that represents an ignored segment of Barbie admirers?  Check out the complete Huffington Post article here.

Posted in Baldness, cancer, Children with Hair Loss, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Finally Conquer Your Hair Loss This Year!

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Sheryl

How many of you made new year’s resolutions?  The definition of “resolve” is “to come to a definite or earnest decision.”  The “decision” is usually tied to a plan of action.

It’s my experience at HPI that it’s not that women with hair loss don’t want to keep their resolution to solve their hair loss problem–they just may not know where to begin the process!

An internet search targeting “women’s hair loss” or “female pattern thinning” will provide over three million resulting links.  Where do you go from there?

Here are five tips to begin your quest to finally conquer your hair loss this year:

1. Get a medical check up.  Some hair loss is a symptom of other underlying medical issues, such as thyroid or hormone problems.

2. See a dermatologist.  If your overall health is in good standing, a dermatologist should be able to diagnose your type of hair loss.  Once you know what type of hair loss you have, you’ll have a better idea of the type of solution you need. 

3. Ask for referrals.  Your doctor, hairdresser, even close friends or family may be able to refer you to a repretable hair replacement establishment to consult.  Otherwise, look for hair replacement businesses in your area online or through the telephone book.

4.  Schedule a consultation.  Don’t let your fear of the unknown rob you from this imperative step!  Most hair replacement businesses offer free consultations.  You are doing yourself such a disservice if you don’t take advantage of these offers!

For instance, consultations at Hair Prosthesis Institute are free, private and very casual.   It’s the best way to learn what a hair replacement company can do for your specific hair loss situation.  Plus, it gives you an added opportunity to get the feel for a company and their services.  

5.  Follow your heart.  After consulting with a few hair replacement businesses, consider what they’ve presented to you.  Keep in mind, if it sounds too good to be true, be wary and do further research if needed.  Any hair replacement provider worth their salt will patiently answer your questions to help you make an informed decision. 

As you compare prices, also consider the quality of the hair each company provides.  Would you be comfortable with their processes, staff and surroundings? 

Each step is important to helping you complete the path to freedom from your hair loss problem.  Don’t let this year be like all the others.  Be proactive.  Do your research and keep your resolution to solve your hair loss problem this year, once and for all! 

 

Posted in Alopecia, Baldness, Female Pattern Thinning, hair enhancement, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute, PCOS, Thinning hair, Trichotillomania, women's hair loss, women's hair replacement | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Women With PCOS Should Avoid Caffeine

Posted on December 22, 2011 by Sheryl

 

 

 

 

 

At Hair Prosthesis Institute, we see many women who suffer hair loss as a result of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.   Although hair loss is only one of several symptoms of PCOS, one major problem with PCOS is that it zaps energy levels.

Normally when a little pick-me-up is needed, you might reach for a caffeinated beverage, but according to Christine DeZarn of the PCOS Association, that’s a terrible idea for women with PCOS. 

Drinks with caffeine can actually be one of the worst choices for PCOS sufferers because they usually are high in sugar with little nutritional value.  Weight gain and insulin resistance issues, which are also symptoms of PCOS, would be even more aggravated by such a beverage selection.

A better drink choice for women with PCOS would be water.  While this might be surprising because water isn’t usually considered an energy drink, it keeps the body better hydrated, thus helping it to work more efficiently and restoring natural energy.

So the next time you’re considering a cup of joe, reach for a reusable water bottle and fill it with water to go instead.

Posted in Female Pattern Thinning, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute, Healthy Habits, PCOS, Thin hair, Thinning hair, women's hair loss, women's hair replacement | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

HPI Grants a Wish on National Believe Day

Posted on December 14, 2011 by Sheryl

 

 

When HPI was approached to help grant a wish of new hair to seven-year-old Leukemia patient, Aniyah, of course we we wanted to make that wish come true.

December 9th was National Believe Day and at a local Macy’s, they celebrated the day by proclaiming Aniyah as “Princess for a Day.”  She received a makeover, complete with a manicure and pedicure, and a shopping spree at the mall.

Stephanie, our Client Coordinator, met Aniyah during her makeover session.  Stephanie took the measurements necessary to create a new full hair prosthesis just for her.

Be sure to watch our blog for more to come when HPI fulfills Aniyah’s wish for new hair.

 

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Anti-aging Exercises for the New Year

Posted on December 2, 2011 by Sheryl

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Although January 1st will bring in a new year, you don’t have to look another year older.   One of  the major physical traits that make women look older than they are is thinning hair.  HPI can help you with that issue easily.

But what’s the point of looking younger if you’re not feeling the part?   

Check out the following article link for suggested exercise routines intended to keep your years from showing and improving your overall health.   “9 Exercises to Reduce the Effects of Aging”

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Surgical Hair Restoration Not Always Solution for Women with Hairloss

Posted on December 1, 2011 by Sheryl
Carla is an HPI client with female pattern thinning on right and with her human hair prosthesis on the left.
 

While HPI is an expert in non-surgical hair restoration for women and children, we get calls regularly inquiring about surgical hair replacement.  

Women asking about hair transplants might be interested to know that surgical hair replacement is only an option for about 2%-5% of the women with hair loss.

The majority of women with hair loss experience an overall thinning usually because dihydrotestosterone (DHT) has caused the follicles to shrink overall , therefore they don’t have the capability to provide donor hair from a stable area that hasn’t been affected by the DHT.

Many women with female pattern thinning, alopecia or other forms of hair loss have opted to restore their hair with a custom human hair addition.  A custom human hair prosthesis can provide as much or as little coverage as necessary, can be washed and styled just like natural growth hair and look so natural, no one would know it’s a hair addition. 

If you are a woman with hairloss that’s interested in a surgical solution, it’s best to first have the cause of your hair loss diagnosed by a dermatologist, then you will know which route is best for your hair restoration.

For more in depth information regarding surgical vs. non-surgical options for women with hair loss, click to the WebMD article “Women’s Hair Loss and Hair Restoration.”

Posted in Alopecia, Baldness, Children with Hair Loss, DHT, Female Pattern Thinning, hair enhancement, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute, human hair addition, natural hair prosthesis, PCOS, Thin hair, Thinning hair, Wigs, women's hair loss, women's hair replacement | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Bald Girls Do Lunch” in Tennessee

Posted on November 29, 2011 by Sheryl

If you haven’t heard, HPI is sponsoring “Bald Girls Do Lunch” at three stops in Tennessee.  The events will be hosted in Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville.  Make sure to go to click on this website link to make your reservations.

If you’re still undecided on whether or not to attend, check out this video taken from the Today Show at a “Bald Girls Do Lunch” event in Illinois.  I think you’ll see can be a fun and uplifting experience.

 

Posted in Alopecia, Baldness, Children with Hair Loss, hair enhancement, Hair Loss, Hair Prosthesis Institute, human hair addition, Wigs, women's hair loss, women's hair replacement | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

HPI Sponsors “Bald Girls Do Lunch”

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Sheryl

HPI is proud to sponsor three events in Tennessee in partnership with the non-profit organization “Bald Girls Do Lunch” the first week of December.

“Bald Girls Do Lunch” provides a casual, informative and entertaining opportunity for women with alopecia to meet, get the latest medical updates and share coping experiences.

Every year thousands are diagnosed with some form of alopecia, which is an autoimmune condition that attacks the hair follicles, causing unexpected hair loss.  Hair loss to any woman is crushing to her self-esteem and self-confidence as she may become isolated and withdrawn during this experience.  Knowledge  and support can make such a difference to anyone who’s blindsided by alopecia’s completely unpredictable pattern of hair loss.

The  ”Bald Girls Do Lunch” events will be held in Memphis on Wednesday, November 30th;  Nashville  on Thursday, December 1st and Knoxville on Friday, December 2nd. 

Make your reservations asap.  You’ll be glad you were a part of this unique gathering.

Go to: http://conta.cc/BGDLTennessee for more details and to make your reservations.

 

 

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