Various factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, health conditions and certain medications can cause it. Additionally, stress, poor nutrition, certain hair care practices, hair extensions, hair styling tools and medical treatments can also cause hair loss.
Genetic Causes
One of the most common causes of hair loss is genetics. Male-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a condition inherited from one’s parents. This condition is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning of hair on the top of the head. Female-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is characterized by thinning of hair on the top of the head. It is less common than male-pattern baldness.
Hormones
Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss. For women, pregnancy, menopause or stopping birth control pills can result in hair loss. For men, an increase in the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels can cause hair loss. DHT is a byproduct of testosterone and can shrink hair follicles and make it difficult for hair to grow.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders, health conditions such as thyroid disorders and iron deficiency anemia can also cause hair loss. Autoimmune disorders such as lupus and alopecia areata cause the immune system to attack hair follicles. Thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism can thin hair and cause hair loss. Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by a lack of iron in the blood and can cause hair loss.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause hair loss. Chemotherapy, which is used for cancer treatment, can cause hair loss.
Blood thinners, such as warfarin, can also cause hair loss. Similarly, medications used to treat gut, depression and hypertension can also cause hair loss.
Stress
Physical and emotional stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium. This type of hair loss is typically temporary, and hair will regrow once the stressor is removed. However, if the stress continues, hair loss can become more severe and long-term.
Nutrition
Nutrition also plays a role in hair health. A diet that is low in protein, iron and other essential nutrients can cause hair loss. This is particularly true for vegetarians, who may not get enough of these nutrients in their diet. Additionally, crash diets and rapid weight loss can cause hair loss because the body may not get enough nutrients to support healthy hair growth.
Hair Care Products
Certain hair care practices can also cause hair loss. Overuse of hair styling products such as hair dyes, solutions, and hair straighteners can damage hair and cause hair loss. Tight hairstyles such as braids, cornrows and ponytails can also cause hair loss, this is known as traction alopecia.
Treatment options for hair loss depend on the underlying cause. For genetic hair loss, doctors may prescribe medications like minoxidil and finasteride to slow or stop hair loss. Hormonal hair loss can be treated with hormone therapy or birth control pills. Health conditions causing hair loss can be treated with medication, surgery or therapy. Stress-related hair loss can be treated with therapy or stress management techniques.
Additionally, there are many natural methods to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. Hair transplantation is also an option.
Infections
Another potential cause of hair loss is scalp infections. Fungal or bacterial infections can damage hair follicles and cause hair loss. These types of infections can occur due to poor hygiene, excessive sweating or exposure to harsh chemicals. Symptoms of scalp infections include itching, redness and swelling. Health professionals can diagnose scalp infections using antibiotics or antifungal drugs.
One of the causes of hair loss is also the widespread use of hair extensions and other hair styling tools. These tools can damage hair and cause hair loss. Therefore, the correct use and regular maintenance of hair extensions and hair styling tools is important.
These tools can apply too much tension to the hair, especially at the point of attachment, causing hair loss. If you use hair extensions, it is important to make sure they are not too tight and not worn for long periods of time.
Another factor is lack of sleep. Studies have shown that chronic sleep deprivation can lead to many health problems, including hair loss. When the body does not get enough rest, it can cause changes in hormone levels and increase stress, which can lead to hair loss.
It should also be noted that certain hairstyles can cause hair loss. In particular, tight braids or ponytails can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by the constant tension and tension applied to the hair follicles. Therefore, be careful when choosing hairstyles and avoid those that apply excessive tension to the hair.
In conclusion, hair loss can be caused by many reasons and it is important to consult a health professional to determine the underlying cause. Lack of sleep, hairstyles, hair styling products, scalp infections, hair extensions, hair styling tools, medical treatments and underlying conditions such as PCOS or PCOD can cause hair loss. By taking care of your scalp, your hair, your overall health, managing stress and adopting healthy habits, you can prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
