Causes Of Hair Loss

It is normal to lose on average between 50-150 hairs per day when brushing, combing, or shampooing. When our hair growth cycle is healthy, approximately 85 to 90% of our hair is in the growing stage (Anagen), and approximately 10 to 15% in the resting stage (Telogen). Hair loss occurs when an increased number of hairs enter the resting stage prematurely often causing a loss in the hair's density.

There are many different potential causes of hair loss, which are typically related to one or more of the following factors:

Family History

One of the most common causes of hair loss is a hereditary condition that happens with aging, called androgenic alopecia – also known as Male Pattern  Hair Loss or Female Pattern Hair Loss. This type of genetic hair loss can be inherited from either parent, both parents or even grandparents. Most people affected by genetic hair loss start to notice the first signs of thinning hair during their 40s and 50s, however, for some,  it can start as early as the late teens and early 20s.

Hormonal Changes

The hair follicle is incredibly sensitive to changes in the body, so hormonal changes can contribute to hair loss. There is a range of conditions that may cause both permanent and temporary hair loss, including hormonal changes due to puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems. Medical Conditions, Health Concerns, and Medications including birth control. 

A variety of hair and scalp conditions are medical, for example; alopecia areata, which is related to the immune system, and scalp infections such as ringworm. Hair loss can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, gout, and high blood pressure.

Stress and Trauma

Stress is one of the main causes of temporary hair loss. Generally, any form of major, negative life event (such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, moving house or illness) can cause a rise in the body’s cortisol levels, which in turn can act as a trigger for hair loss.

Telogen effluvium, significant stress pushes large numbers of hair follicles into the resting phase, and after a few months, these hairs suddenly start to shed resulting in thinner hair. People who have had a traumatic situation happen in their life, like losing a loved one, or a pet, may send their hair follicles into the resting phase which will eventually fall out 6 months after the traumatic situation. Very interesting!

Lifestyle, Nutrition, and Diet

This one is the most important factor in hair loss, which is, Diet! Diet can play a huge role in hair growth, as a healthy scalp supports healthy hair. For healthy hair growth and scalp health, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are essential. If you have any nutrient deficiencies and are not getting what you need from your diet, this could have an impact on your hair.

Environmental Factors

Excessive heat, hairstyling, or hairstyles that pull on your hair can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Hair coloring, heat, chemical straighteners, and other hair processes can also cause hair shedding, breakage, and damage. As well as this, elements in the environment, such as air pollutants and minerals in water may impact the quality of the hair and potentially contribute to thinning. Exposure to the sun can weaken the hair shaft, also playing a role in hair loss.

Now, that we know the hair growth cycle and causes of hair loss, what can we do to promote hair growth and hair health? 

To-be continued…