Hair loss is a common phenomenon that affects both men and women, and it can be caused by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, genetics, nutrient deficiencies, and more.
While hair loss can be concerning, it’s important to understand that there is such a thing as normal hair loss that occurs as part of the hair growth cycle. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of normal hair loss and what you should know about it.
The Hair Growth Cycle
To understand normal hair loss, it’s important first to understand the hair growth cycle. The hair growth cycle has three stages:.
Anagen
The anagen stage is the active phase of hair growth that lasts between two to six years. During this stage, the hair follicle is producing new hair cells, and the hair shaft grows longer.
About 90% of your hair is typically in this stage at any given time.
Catagen
The catagen stage is a transitional phase that lasts about two weeks. During this stage, the hair follicle stops producing new hair cells, and the hair shaft detaches from the blood supply. Only about 1-2% of your hair is in this stage at any given time.
Telogen
The telogen stage is the resting phase that lasts about three months. During this stage, the hair follicle is inactive, and the hair shaft remains detached from the blood supply. About 10% of your hair is typically in this stage at any given time.
Normal Hair Loss
Normal hair loss refers to the shedding of hair that occurs as part of the hair growth cycle. On average, people lose about 50-100 hairs per day, and this is considered normal.
While it’s normal to lose hair every day, some events can cause a temporary increase in hair loss, like physical or emotional stress, hormonal changes, illness, and more.
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What Causes Excessive Hair Loss?
Excessive hair loss, on the other hand, occurs when the rate of hair shedding exceeds the rate of hair growth. This can be caused by various factors, including:.
Genetics
Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. It’s typically characterized by a receding hairline in men and thinning hair in women.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can impact the hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss. For example, changes in the levels of androgens (male hormones) can cause hair loss in women.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and scalp infections can cause hair loss.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies, particularly deficiencies of iron, zinc, and biotin, can affect hair health and lead to hair loss.
Stress
Physical or emotional stress can lead to a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium, where hair shedding exceeds hair growth. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and resolves on its own once the underlying stressor is resolved.
Conclusion
Understanding normal hair loss is crucial to determine whether you have excessive hair loss. While it’s normal to lose hair every day, it’s important to pay attention to any changes in the amount or pattern of hair loss.
If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider or a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment.
