Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hair loss, also known as hairloss, is a common condition that affects both men and women. It can result from genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or lifestyle factors. Hair thinning and hair loss can occur gradually or suddenly, affecting the scalp or other body areas. While some types are temporary, others may require medical treatment. Various solutions, including lifestyle changes, medications, and hair restoration treatments, can help manage the condition.

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss occurs when the natural hair growth cycle is disrupted. This can happen due to hormonal imbalances, stress, medical conditions, or genetics. The average person sheds about 50-100 hairs daily, but excessive hair shedding or noticeable bald patches may indicate an underlying issue.

There are different types of hair loss, including:

Androgenetic alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness): A genetic condition that leads to gradual hair thinning and hair loss over time.
Telogen effluvium: Temporary hair shedding triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes.
Alopecia areata: An autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp or body.
Traction alopecia: Hair loss due to excessive pulling or tight hairstyles.

Understanding the underlying cause is crucial to finding the most effective hair loss prevention and treatment options.

Symptoms of Hair Loss

Hair loss can manifest in various ways, depending on its cause. Common symptoms include

Thinning hairline – Many people first notice that their hairline is receding at the temples, making the forehead appear larger over time.
Gradual hair thinning – This is especially common on the crown or along the parting, where hair becomes visibly sparse, often due to genetics or hormonal changes.
Patchy bald spots – Small, circular bald patches may appear randomly on the scalp, which could indicate an underlying issue like alopecia areata or an autoimmune disorder.
Excessive shedding – Losing more hair than usual in the shower, on your pillow, or when combing can signal an ongoing issue. Some shedding is normal, but excessive loss can be a warning sign.
Itchy or irritated scalp – Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff cause hair loss along with persistent scalp irritation.
Weak, brittle hair – Strands that break easily or feel thinner than usual may be linked to nutritional deficiencies, harsh hair treatments, or excessive heat styling.
Changes in hair texture – Hair may feel drier, coarser, or more fragile, indicating damage to the hair shaft or scalp health issues.

For many, these symptoms progress over time, leading to extreme hair loss if left untreated.

What Causes Hair Loss?

1. Hormonal Changes and Genetics

Female pattern hair loss and male pattern baldness are hereditary and caused by hormonal fluctuations.
Conditions like PCOS hair loss are due to excess androgens, affecting hair growth.
Menopause hair loss is common due to decreased oestrogen levels.

2. Medical Conditions and Medications

Postpartum hair loss occurs due to hormonal shifts after pregnancy.
Hair loss after pregnancy is often temporary but can last several months.
Thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and anaemia can contribute to sudden hair loss in women and men.
Some medications, including chemotherapy drugs and certain antidepressants, can trigger excessive hair loss.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies and Lifestyle Factors

Lack of iron, vitamin D, or protein can cause hairloss in women and men.
Stress and hair loss are closely linked, as emotional or physical stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase.
Dandruff cause hair loss concerns arise when scalp inflammation disrupts hair growth.

4. External and Environmental Factors

Frequent heat styling, tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments contribute to hair loss and thinning.
Toxins, pollutants, and harsh shampoos can weaken hair strands, accelerating scalp hair thinning.

Treatment for Hair Loss

1. Medications and Topical Treatments

Minoxidil: A topical treatment that promotes hair regrowth for men and women.
Finasteride: An oral medication that slows male hair loss causes by blocking DHT.
Saw palmetto for hair loss: A natural alternative that may help reduce hairloss.

2. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Balanced diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods supports hair loss prevention and growth.
Scalp massage: Improves circulation, promoting hairline regrowth.
Reduce stress: Meditation and exercise can prevent stress hair loss.

3. Advanced Hair Restoration Treatments

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Injecting growth factors into the scalp to encourage receding hair regrowth.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Stimulates dormant hair follicles for hair loss prevention.

4. Surgical Solutions

Hair transplant: Moving healthy follicles to balding areas for long-term results.
Scalp micropigmentation: A cosmetic procedure creating the appearance of fuller hair.

When to See a Doctor?

If hair loss and thinning become noticeable or are accompanied by other symptoms like itchy scalp hair loss or extreme shedding, consulting a specialist is recommended. Sudden hair loss or persistent hairloss in women and men will need medical advice to rule out underlying conditions.

Conclusion

Hair loss is a common issue that affects confidence and well-being. While some cases are temporary and reversible, others may require targeted hair receding treatment. From medical interventions to lifestyle changes, various treatments can help slow or stop hairline loss and promote healthy regrowth.

FAQs

What is the best treatment for hair loss?

The best approach depends on the cause. If it’s due to genetics, treatments like minoxidil or finasteride may help. For thinning caused by stress or nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle changes and a balanced diet can make a difference. In more advanced cases, PRP therapy or a hair transplant may be options.

How can I stop my hair from falling out?

Start by focusing on the basics—eat a nutrient-rich diet, avoid harsh hair treatments, and manage stress. If shedding persists, consult a specialist to identify the root cause and get targeted treatment.

Can hair thinning be reversed?

In many cases, yes. If caught early, hair loss due to diet, stress, or hormonal imbalances can often be reversed with the right care. However, genetic hair loss is trickier to stop but can be slowed with proper treatment.

Which deficiency causes hair fall?

Low levels of iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein are common reasons for hair loss. A blood test can help pinpoint deficiencies, and supplements or diet adjustments can support regrowth.