Understanding Hair Loss in Expatriates: UAE Insights

Hair Loss in Expatriates

Many expatriates relocating to the UAE often find themselves grappling with unexpected hair loss, leading to various speculations about its causes. While some attribute it to factors like water quality, heat, or prolonged exposure to air conditioning, experts debunk these claims, stating that there's no concrete evidence suggesting expatriates in the UAE experience higher rates of hair loss compared to their home countries.

Dr. Hussein Abdelrazik, a specialist in dermatology and cosmetology at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island, highlights that several specific factors contribute to hair fall when transitioning to a new country. He mentions climate changes, stress, and lifestyle adjustments as primary reasons. Dr. Abdelrazik underscores the complexity of the relationship between the epigenome, environmental changes, and hair loss, which remains a subject of ongoing research.

The epigenome, a system involving chemical compounds and proteins that regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, is influenced by various environmental factors. Transitioning from homemade to processed meals, which are often laden with sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, can impact the epigenome and activate genes associated with hair loss.

Dr. Naglaa Ramzy, a specialist dermatologist at Prime Hospital, points out that women tend to experience more significant hair loss than men upon relocating to the UAE. She attributes this to the stress of starting a new job, being away from family, environmental changes, and poor dietary habits. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women due to pregnancy, lactation, contraceptive use, or menopause, also contribute to hair loss.

In addressing hair loss concerns, Dr. Mazza Ahmed, a specialist dermatologist at Saudi German Hospital, Ajman, suggests solutions such as using filtered water for hair washing or multivitamin hair sprays. However, it's essential to differentiate between genetic or patterned hair loss, which is more common in men, and other underlying causes of hair loss.

Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of treating the root cause of hair loss, which may include addressing vitamin deficiencies, managing systemic diseases, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking dermatological consultation for effective solutions.

Several expatriates shared their experiences dealing with hair loss in the UAE. Felizze Faye Navarro, an Abu Dhabi resident, noticed a significant decrease in hair volume since moving to the country in 2013. Similarly, Bhavya Rao, an Indian expat in Dubai, encountered excessive hair shedding after relocating six years ago. Both individuals tried various remedies, including showerhead filters and dietary adjustments, to mitigate hair loss.

In conclusion, while factors like water quality and environmental conditions may influence hair health to some extent, experts assert that hormonal changes, stress, and lifestyle factors play more significant roles in expatriates' experience of hair loss in the UAE. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate medical advice are crucial steps in addressing this concern.