According to the NHS, we can expect to lose 50-100 hairs each day, without even noticing! While some types of hair loss – like male pattern baldness – are more permanent, other forms may be temporary and treatable.
But why does hair fall out? Trichologists and hair industry experts believe one or more of the following factors are responsible:
1. Genetics
Male and Female Pattern Baldness are intrinsically linked to our DNA. So, if your parents or grandparents lost some hair, then it's very likely that you will experience noticeable hair loss at some point in your life.
2. Health
If you have a short or long-term medical condition that requires medication, the side effects of both the condition and the medication could contribute to thinning hair. Typical examples are chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants.
Furthermore, hormonal changes and imbalances in both men and women can cause hair loss. This is often true for women who experience hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and after giving birth.
3. Stress
Stress can cause hair loss by disrupting the normal growth cycle of hair. When we experience stress, our bodies react, producing more androgens (the hormones responsible for growth and reproduction). Consequently, our hair follicles may shrink over time, eventually halting the production and growth of healthy hair.
4. Diet
These days, most of us are very aware of the importance of positive food choices. It's a matter of fact that nutritional deficiencies brought about by poor eating habits can deprive the body of essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy hair growth. Specifically, if you are deficient in protein, iron, and vitamin B12, this could be contributing to hair shedding.
5. Damage
Heat-based styling, like regular hair drying and straightening (especially on a high heat setting), can deprive the hair of moisture, breaking protein bonds and cracking hair cuticles. In turn, this can cause the hair to break and fall out.
Additionally, chemical treatments like perms and relaxers and the overuse of harsh styling products can also cause lasting damage to healthy hair follicles.
In conclusion, multiple factors can often be responsible for hair loss, and these can vary from person to person. If you are worried about shedding, speaking to a qualified Doctor about possible underlying medical conditions is always advisable. An experienced hair loss consultant can further advise on possible causes and treatment options.
Contact us HERE if you're feeling anxious about hair loss. We’ll be happy to chat about your circumstances, identify possible causes and suggest potential hair restoration treatments.