Many people notice changes in their hair volume or texture as they age, but it can be unusual to see significant shedding. Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, occurs when the cycle of hair growth and shedding is disrupted or when the hair follicle is destroyed. While this may be cause for concern, know that many types of hair loss are treatable. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward finding a solution that works for you.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Loss of hair stems from a variety of factors, ranging from genetic predispositions to temporary health conditions. Identifying the specific trigger often requires a professional evaluation. The most frequent cause of thinning hair worldwide is a hereditary condition often called male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. This condition usually occurs gradually, and it shows in predictable patterns. In men, this typically presents as a receding hairline or bald spots. In women, it often manifests as thinning hair along the crown of the scalp.
Hormonal shifts can cause temporary or permanent hair loss. These fluctuations are often triggered by events such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid problems, which significantly alter hormone levels. When hormone levels stabilize, hair growth often returns to normal, but some individuals may need medical support.
Certain medical issues directly impact hair health. Alopecia areata creates patchy loss of hair when the immune system attacks hair follicles. Scalp infections like ringworm can cause scaly patches and loss of hair, while hair-pulling disorders may lead to visible thinning. Hair loss can be a side effect of certain drugs; medications used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, gout, and high blood pressure may disrupt the hair growth cycle. Many people experience a general thinning of hair several months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is usually temporary.
Lifestyle Remedies
Sometimes, addressing hair health requires changes to your daily routine or environment. Small adjustments may support your body’s natural ability to grow hair. A balanced diet is advisable for healthy hair. Get adequate protein, iron, and vitamins, for deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to hair shedding.
Avoid tight hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails that pull on the hair. This type of hair loss is called traction alopecia. Be gentle when washing and brushing your hair, and a wide-toothed comb helps prevent breakage on wet hair. Minimizing the use of harsh treatments like hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments, and permanents may also reduce damage. Since stress can trigger loss of hair, finding ways to manage it is recommended. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques may help reduce stress levels.
Medical Treatments
If lifestyle changes do not yield results, various medical interventions are available. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine which option is safe and appropriate for your specific situation. There are FDA-approved medications available to treat pattern baldness. Some are topical solutions applied directly to the scalp to slow loss of hair and stimulate regrowth, and others are oral medications that treat hair loss in men.
Hair transplant surgery is an option for those with permanent loss of hair, and this is often a solution for genetic baldness. During this procedure, a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon removes hair from a part of the head that has hair and transplants it to a bald spot. Some studies suggest laser therapy may improve hair density for people with hereditary hair thinning. Low-level laser devices are also available as combs or caps.
Ask a Doctor Today
Hair loss can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs attention. If you are distressed by your thinning hair or if it happens suddenly, seek professional advice. A doctor can perform a physical exam and review your medical history to find the cause. They can provide a diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. You do not have to navigate this challenge alone, and professional support is available to help you.
