The consultant physician of dermatology, hair diseases and laser, Dr. Ro’a Al-Harthi considered that “the most important nutrients for hair are iron, vitamin B12, zinc, and vitamin D. the need for such vitamins depends on how lacking they are, thus, a test must be conducted to measure the level of those vitamins to get the supplements as needed. The reason for hair fall should be known at first by a clinical test conducted by a specialized dermatologist to prescribe the required treatment accordingly.”
She pointed out that “hair-fall affects %90 percent of women, at least once in a lifetime. One of the most prominent reasons is post-partum hair-fall that could last for one year. In case the hair-fall lasts for more than one year, it is recommended to visit a specialized doctor to insure that there is no other reason for it.”
Regarding any possible harm of hair implant, Dr. Ro’a stated that any surgical interference has its side effects that can be explained by the doctor before undergoing the surgery. The patient has the right to know such risks. However, those side effects are less likely to happen if the doctor is well experienced and skilful.
Concerning the precautions in laser hair removal, and whether it is risky; she demonstrated that “the skin must not be exposed to direct sun light in order to avoid any burns or pigmentations. She did not recommend laser hair removal in the intimate areas for pregnant ladies.”
This came while hosting Dr. Ro’a Al-Harthi, consultant of dermatology, hair diseases and laser, within the context of the awareness campaign launched annually by the MOH during the Holy Fasting Month of Ramadan under the theme: "Hello, Healthy Ramadan". Through this Program, the Center hosts a constellation of consultant physicians and specialists in all fields via the toll-free number: 8002494444, and the Ministry's Twitter account: @SAUDIMOH to help fasting people, especially those with diseases, to perform this Islamic pillar without any health problems – Allah willing.
Dr. Ro’a indicated that acne treatment varies according to the severity of the case. The treatment starts with topical therapies, including the sulfur soap and local antibiotics for the oily skin. But if the acne was intermediate to severe that it can scar, oral tablets must be taken under medical supervision.
As for natural remedies that are claimed to treat acne, Dr. Ro’a affirmed that such remedies have not been proven to be effective, as they are just assumptions. Rather, she advised using effective medications that are prescribed by the doctor.
As for the dark spots that result from the exposure to sun light, the doctor recommends to be protected, minimize the exposure to the sun and use an SPF30; then the doctor prescribes certain blends under medical supervision.
Moreover, Dr. Ro’a demonstrated that under-eye circles result from skin colour change, the emergence of blood vessels or the loss of fatty tissues. The treatment will be decided on based upon the case; by using a local cream, injection, filling, or RBOXA treatment.
On the Ministry's Twitter account, she responded to one of the followers concerns about vitiligo treatment, where she stated that there are various ways of vitiligo treatment which depend on the case itself. Vitiligo on hands and legs is less likely to respond to treatment, unlike other positions; it may require more time to recover. The treatment may vary from local treatment, laser treatment, light rays to transplantation of pigment cells.