GENTLEMAN’S ISSUE
LIFE + CULTURE
HOMETOWN HEROES
dream life is waiting.
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction. Your
Markets available nationwide Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com
The Importance of Fathers
Have you ever paused to think about the impact fathers have on their homes and families? The truth is, the role of a father is immeasurable. Fathers shape homes, nurture growth, and provide the foundation upon which children can thrive. And as a dad, the level of impact you choose to have is entirely in your hands.
This truth hit home for me recently with the passing of my father. While he’s no longer present to help shape my life, the memories he left are priceless. Now, I have the honor of seeing my husband build a similar foundation for our own family.
A father’s gifts are unique and lasting—his strength, his words, his guidance—all create an impact that ripples through generations. Here are just a few of the ways fathers build up their homes:
• A father’s strength can be a steady anchor.
• His words can encourage and inspire.
• A dad’s hugs can provide comfort in difficult times.
• A smile from a dad can instill joy and confidence.
• Time spent with a dad is filled with both fun and productivity.
• A dad’s physicality can challenge and excite.
• His guidance can be life-changing.
• A father’s correction is sometimes life-saving.
• Adventures with a dad create unforgettable memories.
This month, let’s celebrate fathers everywhere. If you have a father or father figure in your life, let them know how much they matter to you. And if you are a dad, thank you. You are an invaluable part of your family, your community, and the world.
Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads out there!
JOANN CHANG, MANAGING EDITOR
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Amy Walters | amy.walters@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
JoAnn Chang | joann.chang@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
JoAnn Chang, Amy Walters, Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Magical Memories Photography, JoAnn Chang, J David, Academy at the Lakes, Love Generously
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
FAMILY EDUCATION
Virtual
Circle of Security Parent Workshops
The START Initiative is a family support program designed for families in Pasco and Hernando Counties who want to strengthen their parenting skills and better navigate today’s challenges. We understand how families care about their children’s success and well-being, and we know that parenting during these uncertain times can be stressful.
Introduction to the Circle of Security Workshop where families gain access to helpf ul tools and strategies. Build healthy connections with your children. Receive support to cope with the unique challenges of today’s world now and in the future. Make community connections with other START parents. Can participate by zoom and technology is provided if needed!
Participants receive a free copy of Raising a is based on decades of research about how relationships can be supported and streng
To register or for more information, please contact Dawn Espinoza at D.Espinoza@elcph.org.
MONDAYS AT 6:30 pm
July 6, 13, 20, 27 Aug 3, 10, 17
Convenient right from your Home on Zoom!
Brilliance in the Making
Old Fashioned Adventure
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 – 7: The community showed up to support the Night of Love Casino Night benefiting Love Generously. The event raises funds to help children in our community receive consistent care, nourishment, and a reminder that they are deeply loved.
Photography by Love Generously
city scene CONTINUED
1 – 3: The community showed up to support the Night of Love Casino Night benefiting Love Generously. The event raises funds to help children in our community receive consistent care, nourishment, and a reminder that they are deeply loved.
Want to be seen in
the magazine?
TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @NEWPORTRICHEYCITYLIFESTYLE
Upgrade your home with energy-efficient, hurricane-impact windows and doors designed for Florida’s climate.
Expert replacement and new construction solutions with honest pricing and no pressure.
From curb appeal to comfort and storm protection, our team delivers quality you can trust from consultation through installation.
Hometown Heroes
Heroes walk alongside us every day. These local Veterans show the real meaning of community and how it impacts others.
ARTICLE BY AMY WALTERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGICAL MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY
CHRIS EATON
After serving in the military and spending time in Iraq, Chris Eaton returned home carrying more than just memories. Like many veterans, he struggled with the invisible weight of trauma, navigating years of internal battles that eventually led him to a breaking point. But these moments didn’t define him. He found what lay behind it.
That decision became his mission.
Today, Chris works closely with veterans, helping them navigate PTSD in a way that feels approachable and real. He doesn’t rely on clinical language or complicated systems. Instead, he meets veterans where they are, in terms they understand, drawing from shared experience and teaching simple yet powerful tools like breathwork and self-regulation.
His approach focuses on something often overlooked: self-control.
Chris helps veterans understand how their bodies respond to stress and how to slow it down, he gives them the ability to regain control in moments that once felt overwhelming. And beyond the techniques, he creates something just as important: a local space at Trinity Yoga Wellness Center, where veterans feel safe, understood, and not alone.
Because for Chris, healing starts with one simple truth. “You’re still in the fight, and you’re worthy of winning it,” shared Eaton.
Some of the toughest battles veterans face come after combat.
After serving in the United States Navy, with multiple tours overseas, Mark Wilson has carried that same sense of duty into civilian life. Today, his focus has shifted from serving his country to serving those who stood alongside him. Veterans facing one of life’s toughest battles - cancer. Mark’s journey into advocacy wasn’t planned. It was personal.
MARK WILSON
“
“Some of us are just wired to stay in the fight. There’s no such thing as leaving someone behind. You stay with your fellow man until the end, no matter what,” explained Wilson. These are words Mark continues to live by, helping other veterans get through their fight with cancer.
After being diagnosed with cancer, Mark realized that while care through the VA exists, navigating the system can be overwhelming. “Many veterans don’t know the resources available to them, and most don’t know the right questions to ask,” explained Wilson. Mark has become their guide. “Some of us are just wired to stay in the fight. There’s no such thing as leaving someone behind. You stay with your fellow man until the end, no matter what,” explained Wilson. These are words Mark continues to live by, helping other veterans get through their fight with cancer. His mission is to ensure no one feels lost in the process. Because to Wilson, beating cancer is not the finish line, it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Mark takes the time to not only educate but provide the emotional support most fighting men need.
After battling cancer twice, his mindset hasn’t changed. He believes in pushing forward to look for ways to contribute and help others. This belief shapes everything he does. Building his community, making connections, and finding recourses that create pathways for veterans to get the support they need. Because even in his hardest moments, his mission remains clear “Keep fighting, and never leave another veteran behind.”
RYDER GASTON
For some veterans, service doesn’t stop when they take off their uniform. Their service simply evolves to take on other forms of support.
After serving on active duty throughout the 1990s and continuing in the Air National Guard, Ryder Gaston carried more than memories into civilian life. “I understood firsthand the challenges veterans and their families faced that go unseen,” said Gaston. This became a foundation to help others when they need it most.
While running a martial arts school in Colorado, he and his family offered free classes to children of deployed military members. It gave those kids structure, confidence, and a place to belong during a time when their home life was anything but stable. “What began as a small act of support quickly revealed a deeper need within the military community,” explained Gaston.
After returning to civilian life, Gaston faced his own health struggles, dealing with chronic migraines for over two decades. Gaston was introduced to holistic therapy, which changed his life. For the first time in years, he found relief and a shift in energy. His life became more manageable, and he wanted to share this profound way of healing with the other veterans around him.
His transformation sparked a new mission. Today, through their wellness center, the Gastons provide free holistic services to veterans. Over 500 sessions each month. What started as a small space has grown into a full facility serving hundreds of veterans regularly. The impact goes beyond just physical relief. It provides genuine change for other veterans.
Gaston reflected on watching the healing journey of a 97-year-old World War Two veteran who came to him being told by others there was no hope. He had MRSA and was in pain and had trouble walking. After 6 months of treatment, the MRSA was gone, and he is thriving and perusing his dreams.
Gaston is faith driven and knows that all the signs he has needed to continue his mission come from the path he is forging through great connections in the community for support and the many smiling faces from healing veterans he continues to serve.
“
“Veterans
who arrive on Monday withdrawn and overwhelmed at their lowest. When I see them on Friday, talking with others, uplifted and laughing and crying with joy from what they experienced, there is no greater feeling
After 16 years in the military, local veteran Chris Sowell found himself searching for a purpose in civilian life. Sowell built his identity around leadership, teamwork, and mission driven work. Once the structure was gone, he felt something missing. Many veterans face challenges that are not visible on the surface. Pain from injury, addiction, and the quiet weight of post-traumatic stress. Sowell works every day to help fellow veterans find peace and functionality through the Warrior Wellness program. Having lost so much on his journey to civilian life, Sowell found himself volunteering and giving back, and wanted to do his best to keep others from experiencing the same loss he did during his path to restoration. “At Warrior Wellness, we do not just treat symptoms, we help people. Giving veterans the space to rebuild, to heal, and to reconnect with themselves to find life meaningful again,” explained Sowell.
Chris sees the transformations happen firsthand. “Veterans who arrive on Monday withdrawn and overwhelmed at their lowest. When I see them on Friday, talking with others, uplifted and laughing and crying with joy from what they experienced, there is no greater feeling than that,” shared Sowell. It’s clear Warrior Wellness has a true, lasting impact. Chris is bringing veterans out of the darkness that may surround them, back to the enjoyment of a fulfilling life.
CHRIS SOWELL
than that.”
— Chris Sowell about Warrior
Wellness.
Chris will continue to work hard, side by side with his fellow veterans, by welcoming those who come wounded and broken to show them there is a life worth living and provide them tools to find the happiness they so deserve.
Brilliance in the Making
Academy at the Lakes graduate, Darren Lau, is making waves as he carves his future.
Some people are just destined to do great things. When you meet them, you feel it. You sense their strength of purpose and a drive and focus that will keep them directed on a path toward accomplishment. It may not be clear what that will be in the end, but you know it will be something big. When you meet Darren Lau, you know you’re seeing brilliance in the making.
Darren Lau, a recent graduate of Academy at the Lakes, was named a 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar for his AuRING project, putting him in the top 300 high school scientists in the nation, a true honor from the country’s oldest and arguably most prestigious science and math competition.
The full title of Darren’s project is ‘AuRING: A Novel Augmented Reality Intraoperative Neurosurgical System Using a Dual Discriminator Bayesian-Structural Similarity Generative Adversarial Network (D2BS2GAN) for Real-Time Brain Shift Compensation.’ Darren is quick to break this down for better understanding. “The basic premise of this project is a two-part system. The first part is an AI algorithm that I custom developed, that is able to take MRI and ultrasound scans to continuously predict the location of brain tumors as the
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JOANN CHANG/ACADEMY AT THE LAKES
surgery goes on. And the accuracy is within under a millimeter of predicting the location of the brain tumor. And then it sends that location over to the second part, which is a pair of augmented reality glasses. Augmented reality allows surgeons to see the patient’s brain and what I then do is project a kind of virtual guiding line on top of the neurosurgeons view that guides them to the brain tumor so they don’t need to guess anymore where the brain tumor is,” explained Lau.
The project came to life after a friend of Darren’s had a close call during surgery, inspiring him to do something to help prevent complications in the future. “During brain tumor neurosurgeries, the brain will move around. What that also means is that the brain tumor is moving around with the brain. And right now, surgeons don’t have a really clear way of knowing where the brain tumor is.
That could lead to damaging brain tissue, because they have no way to navigate to the tumor accurately. There’s a lot of guess and check work. And that’s what happened to my friend. He had some complications related to it, and luckily, he survived,” shared Lau.
Darren credits Academy at the Lakes and its educators for guiding him along the way. “None of this would have been possible without the school. I’ve been here for almost 14 years, and I got my start in science when Academy pushed all of us to join the science fair. And since then, every single year, they’ve had the resources and infrastructure to help me compete and teachers who are supportive of my scientific journey.”
Allowing students like Darren to grow and explore during their education has been a challenge they embraced wholeheartedly. “We really support trying all the things to see what you like and where your passions are, because once you figure that out, you can just take off. Darren was into science and engineering, and we fostered that growth by allowing him to try different opportunities and supporting him,” explained Colleen McCormick, Science Department Chair and Middle Division Director at Academy at the Lakes. She is also Darren’s mentor at the school who has been instrumental in helping him navigate his path. “One of the hallmarks of being a good scientist is to be curious and to ask good questions. And he asks great questions. I have to learn alongside him to be able to support him in that,” added McCormick. By being selected as one of the top 300 projects out of 2600 entrants worldwide, Darren earned $2,000 for himself as well as an additional $2,000 for the school. Darren donated his winnings to the school’s STEM program to purchase supplies for their new Maker Lab. Darren’s project also placed first at the Invention Convention US Nationals.
Darren tested the theory of AuRING and spoke to professionals at Moffitt Cancer Center and Cleveland Clinic while developing his project. “It is patent pending, and I’m looking forward to hopefully, in the future, being able to test in a real-life setting,” shared Lau. In the meantime, Darren is setting his sights on pursing a computer science degree with an eye towards a bright future. “The goal for me would be to start a biomedical engineering company built upon computer science software. I’ve seen firsthand how impactful the medical field can be on people’s individual lives, and if we’re able to multiply that across a huge scale, that would be bring a lot of meaning to me,” shared Lau. Until then, it’s clear Darren will continue to make waves and find new ways to positively impact the lives around him. He is a credit to his school and his community. What he’s shared with the world so far is clearly just the beginning of the brilliance to come.
OLD FASHIONED ADVENTURE
THE KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL OFFERS UP TOP SHELF ADVENTURE.
If you’re a bourbon lover–or know someone who is–the draw to visit the rolling hills of Kentucky, where this well-loved libation was born, is a strong one. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a host of delights for those ready for an old-fashioned adventure with friends or family.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANN CHANG
This classic American spirit was born in Kentucky in the late 18th century – and by law can only be true bourbon if made in the United States. To become bourbon, the mash bill, or grain recipe used to make the spirit, must be at least 51% corn, aged in a new, charred oak container with no color or
flavoring added. The result is a distinctive spirit that has a strong following both in the US and abroad.
Whether you prefer your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like an old fashioned, The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a wealth of both historical and craft distilleries to try. From favorites like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and more, you’ll find guided tours, tastings, and in some cases, the opportunity to create your very own bottle.
While not all bourbon makers are in Kentucky, it produces about 95% of the world’s bourbon, with many major distilleries within an hour of Louisville or Lexington. These beautiful cities would make a perfect home base for your bourbon pilgrimage, offering a range of lodging options and additional sites to weave into your distillery visits. It’s important to note that distilleries can be a fair distance apart, so plan your visits accordingly and consider a private tour to allow for full enjoyment and a safe experience.
The Buffalo Trace distillery is a great consideration when crafting your plan. Perched on the banks of the Kentucky River in the capital of Frankfort, the site dates back to 1775. Considered the oldest continuously operating distillery in America, they offer a range of free tours of the site that produce a variety of both every day bottles to some of the rarest and collectible bourbons in the world, including Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blanton’s Single Barrel, Pappy Van Winkle, Stagg, Colonel E.H. Taylor and more.
If your heart is set on filling your own bottle, distilleries like Casey Jones Distillery in Hopkinsville and Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in Louisville both offer this experience. At the Maker’s Mark Star Hill distillery in Loretto, you can hand-dip your own bottle in wax and order customized labels for the classic 750ml bottle online to personalize your bottle.
Be sure to check out some classic Southern cuisine on your bourbon trail adventure. The Hot Brown, an open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon topped with Mornay sauce, is a Kentucky classic. Other favorites to try include Burgoo, a thick, hearty stew, and Derby Pie, a bourbon-infused dessert made with chocolate and walnuts. Be sure to top these off with a classic Mint Julep or grab a bottle of Ale-8-One to use as a mixer with your favorite bourbon.
Whether planning a perfect trip for the boys or a generational trip with Dad, you’ll find The Kentucky Bourbon Trail full of flavor and memories to last a lifetime.
BEHIND the LENS
J David Wright gives his time and talent to help non-profits share their stories.
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J DAVID
If you’ve spent time supporting non-profits in West Pasco, you’ve likely seen him. Always on the move, he’s steadfastly capturing every moment and experience, shining a light on those lifting up our community. But the man behind the lens, J David Wright, stands for far more than just the photos he captures. He’s an integral part of the community we call home.
Jonathan David Wright, or simply Dave to those who know him best, was born in Elfers 77 years ago, growing up in St. Petersburg. He started working at Winn-Dixie in the 60s and made his way into management, finding his way back to West Pasco managing a store in Holiday. After a career change to financial management and 15 years in Baltimore, he returned to Holiday in 1995 and made his home here ever since.
Photography was something that always drew Dave. “I’ve always had a camera, but it never really got serious until digital came out,” shared Wright. “I started in photography, just taking pictures at my church, and then I got linked up with the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art in Tarpon Springs.” Dave’s story is certainly one of connections. After befriending a benefactor of the museum, he started handling their event photography (and named their official photographer after 25 years). “Then a friend invited me up here for Community Service Council. I liked it, liked the attitude. And then I joined Rotary, and that’s when I started doing events,” added Wright.
While you’ll see Dave capturing moments for a number of non-profits, there are some that stay close to his heart. Even that list is a who’s who of non-profits in the Suncoast: Pace Center for Girls, Rap House, Pasco Kids First, Hero to a Child, Wheelchairs
4 Kids, and many more. And his commitment helped those organizations grow. One example is with Wheelchairs 4 Kids. There was a contest put on by Southwest Airlines about what would you do if you got 50 round-trip tickets. The director won the grant with the idea to take their Wheel Kids to experience skiing. Dave had the privilege to go and capture that first event. “The expressions on the kids’ faces, smiling and happy. They’re just unbelievable. Those have a powerful impact, making people aware that we just don’t give a wheelchair. We also do other things,” shared Wright. That event has turned into an annual pilgrimage that brings joy to many area kids.
“You’re not going to change the lives of 10,000 people, but you might change one life by volunteering.”
In 2024, the community recognized Dave’s contributions by naming him King Pithla at the annual Chasco Coronation Ball, one of his favorite yearly events. While it was an honor, one thing is clear - Dave isn’t in it for the praise, he’s in it to help our community. He believes strongly that anyone can have an impact if they are simply willing to offer their time and talent to help others. “Find one that you’re passionate about, one that you’re going to raise money for, one that you’re going to help out and be the best volunteer. You’re not going to change the lives of 10,000 people, but you might change one life by volunteering,” shared Wright.
One thing is certain - the many lives changed by the man behind the lens are certainly thankful for his commitment.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
Now Open!
Scan here to learn more and register now!
Summer at the Lak 2026
PK3-Rising 8th Grade
Ancillary Sports/ eater Programs (Rising 7th–12th Grade)
Full and half-day o erings
Safe and structured environment
Experienced and passionate sta
Losing It
Seeing your hair go down the drain can feel like you’re losing your mind!
You may not notice it at first—a stray hair on your pillow, a widening part in the mirror—but hair loss often starts quietly, sneaking up until one day the difference is undeniable. For both men and women, it is common yet frequently unexpected and can seem difficult to understand. What many perceive as a sudden circumstance is usually a slow process driven by genetics and hormonal shifts. Taking a closer look at what causes hair loss can help bring clarity to this often out-of-control change. Hair loss is not as random as it may seem. According to Dr. Brad Logan of Ixchel Skin & Body, the most significant
factor is something many people cannot control. “The most common cause for both men and women is actually genetic,” shared Dr. Logan. As the body changes over time, so do the hormones that influence hair growth. “We are pre-programmed, unfortunately, to produce hormones that increase as we age, and they lead to hair loss,” he explained. That process can begin earlier than many expect and continues gradually over time.
While it is often one of the first explanations people reach for, stress is not typically the driving force behind genetic hair loss. “We like to joke that our kids stress
MICHELLE NUMANN
us out and make us lose our hair. That’s just part of the genetic hair loss that we’ve got going on,” said Dr. Logan.
Other factors can also influence how hair loss progresses over time. “The reality is a poor diet may accelerate hair loss,” noted Dr. Logan. While genetics may set the foundation, lifestyle habits can still play a role in how quickly those changes become noticeable.
While the cause may be similar, the way hair loss appears can look very different from one individual to another. “With men, they tend to start to lose hair over the temples, and then the hair starts to recede back,” said Dr. Logan. Over time, that recession may become more pronounced, sometimes extending toward the back of the head. For women, the change is often less obvious at first. “They tend to lose their hair centrally, meaning down the center of their head, and it usually happens on a strip one to two inches wide,” he explained. Instead of full loss, many women notice thinning that changes the overall look and volume of their hair.
One of the challenges with hair loss is how late it becomes noticeable. “A person typically won’t notice hair loss until thirty percent of the hair in an area is lost,” shared Dr. Logan. By the time it is visible, the process has already been underway for some time. Early signs are often mistaken for less significant matters. “They don’t seem to have the volume of hair,” he explained, describing what many patients notice first.
When people begin to notice changes, the instinct is often to look for quick solutions. However, not all options are equally effective. “The biggest misconception is that they can use some over-the-counter products and some well-marketed products that are available over the internet that may produce minimal increases in hair growth or minimal prevention of hair loss, but for the amount of money that’s expended on them, the gain is not great,” said Dr. Logan. Instead, a more informed approach can help clarify which options are worth pursuing.
Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in the progression of hair loss. “The most important things that people can do when they start losing their hair is to use true medical hair treatments,” explained Dr. Logan. Supporting the follicle at its source can help preserve existing hair. CONTINUED >
For those experiencing more advanced hair loss requiring transplantation, modern techniques have advanced immensely in recent years. “What we do now is we do what’s called follicle unit extraction,” shared Dr. Logan. This approach allows individual hair follicles to be transplanted, creating a completely natural look that blends seamlessly with existing hair.
“The reality is a poor diet may accelerate hair loss.”
The transplantation process itself is often more gradual than people expect. “Within a couple of days, a transplanted hair follicle begins to settle well into your scalp, and within a week, it’s not coming out of there,” explained Dr. Logan. While visible hair may shed after the procedure, this does not mean the process has failed. “They go to sleep for a while,” he said, referring to the follicles before new growth begins. “In four to six months, you’ll see nice hair starting to grow back, and by the time that year ends, you’ll have that full hair that you were looking for,” he added. Hair loss can feel deeply personal, but it is also widely shared. What matters most is not just understanding why it happens, but recognizing that there are ways to respond to it. As research and treatments continue to evolve, so do the options available to those experiencing change. What may begin as a moment of concern can become an opportunity to better understand your body and take a more informed, confident approach to maintaining your hair over time.
Dr. Brad Logan
Ixchel Skin & Body offers free consultations to review hair loss concerns and treatment options. Patients receive personalized recommendations based on their goals, timeline, and budget. Visit www.ixchelskin.com.
