Eating a nutritious diet strengthens hair, just as it builds up our body’s strength, Cornelius says. “I suggest foods rich in protein, vitamin B5, B8/Biotin, folic acid, calcium, zinc and iron to keep hair shiny and possibly help reduce hair loss,” she adds. “Try adding more leafy green vegetables, oats, whole grain cereals, dried fruits, liver, wheat germ, raisins and eggs to your diet, along with a multivitamin supplement.”

Hair loss is also an indicator that something may be wrong. Some baldness is genetic and thinning of the hair as we age is natural, but there are health issues that can cause hair to fall out. “A sudden natural or prescription hormone change will show up in your hair,” Cornelius notes. “Pregnancy, giving birth, menopause, going on or off birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can all have an effect,” she states. “Certain disorders of the endocrine system, such as thyroid problems, can affect the thickness of hair, as can diabetes and lupus.” Physical trauma or psychological stress can also play a part. “After surgery, stylists often notice a difference in the way a client’s hair reacts to coloring or perms because the anesthesia used during the operation can affect hair follicles,” Cornelius points out. “A severe personal loss or emotional stress overload can actually cause your hair to fall out.” In addition, hair may be adversely affected by certain prescriptions, including some medications that control high blood pressure.

Excessive body hair growth or lack of it can also be a red flag for potentially serious health concerns. In puberty, the human body’s hormone levels naturally change and more facial hair growth occurs –more so in males – but it can often become a cosmetic concern for women. A teenage girl growing excess facial hair could indicate a hormone imbalance. Subsequently, a person in the mid to late teens who is showing no normal outward signs of puberty, including body hair growth, should consider consulting a physician.

“We have body hair and that is normal and natural, but some men and women would prefer not to have that hair,” says Angela Case of the Skin Care Center/Plastic Surgery of Kalamazoo. “It’s usually not a medical problem, it’s a peer or societal image factor that brings them to us. Here in the U.S., it’s been estimated that 90 percent of people have hair on their bodies that they don’t want.” For that cosmetic effect, some are choosing the new laser hair removal techniques over electrolysis, but many opt for a combination of the two. “Electrolysis has been used for over 100 years on any type of hair and skin type,” notes Case, a Registered Electrologist and Licensed Aesthetician. “Lasers are not as effective on fine, light colored hair. Dark, course hair against a light-skinned background makes the best target for a laser.”

Case does not underestimate the self-image factor in hair removal. “Some women are very reluctant to go out in public before shaving, tweezing, bleaching or waxing, which are temporary techniques,” she says. “Some are very embarrassed by excess hair on their faces. It can also be an intimacy issue for them. Young girls can be teased at school if they have mustaches or whiskers on the chin area. That teasing can affect them emotionally. Permanent removal of unwanted hair can provide a huge boost for personal self-esteem.” Depending on the specific body area and type of hair, it can take several treatments over the course of a year or longer to achieve the desired results.