Our hair is a defining feature of our appearance. It is understandable that losing hair can be a source of concern, especially for people who are experiencing it at a young age.
There are many reasons why people lose their hair, and it is important to understand the underlying causes. Here are the most common reasons why you might be losing your hair:.
1. Genetics
One of the most common causes of hair loss is genetics. Pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a hereditary condition that affects both men and women.
This type of hair loss occurs when the hair follicle gradually shrinks, leading to thinner and shorter hair.
2. Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss, particularly in women. Hair loss can occur after pregnancy, during menopause, or due to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
Hormonal imbalances can also cause hair loss in men, particularly if they have high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can shrink hair follicles.
3. Stress
Stress can cause a variety of health problems, including hair loss. When you are stressed, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that can cause hair follicles to shrink.
This can lead to hair falling out in clumps, although the hair should grow back once the stress has subsided.
4. Nutritional deficiencies
A lack of certain vitamins and minerals can also cause hair loss. Iron deficiency, for example, can cause hair to become brittle and fall out. Other vitamins and minerals that are important for healthy hair include biotin, vitamin D, and zinc.
5. Medications
Some medications can cause hair loss as a side-effect, particularly those used to treat cancer, depression, and high blood pressure.
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If you are concerned about hair loss while taking a certain medication, speak to your doctor about possible alternatives.
6. Hairstyling practices
Hairstyling practices can also contribute to hair loss. Tight hairstyles such as braids and ponytails can cause a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia, which occurs when the hair follicle is damaged from constant tension.
Chemical treatments such as perms and straightening can also damage hair and cause it to fall out.
7. Underlying medical conditions
There are several underlying medical conditions that can cause hair loss, such as thyroid disorders, lupus, and alopecia areata.
If you are experiencing sudden hair loss or thinning, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the underlying cause.
8. Aging
As we age, our hair naturally starts to thin. This is partly due to decreased circulation in the scalp, which can cause hair follicles to shrink.
Additionally, the hair shaft itself becomes thinner and weaker as we age, making it more prone to falling out.
9. Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to chemicals such as chlorine and hair dyes can also cause hair loss. Chlorine can damage the hair shaft and cause it to become brittle, while hair dyes contain chemicals that can irritate the scalp and cause hair follicles to shrink.
10. Autoimmune disorders
Autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata can cause sudden hair loss in both men and women. This occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in round patches.
