While it's typical to shed 50 to 100 strands every day, experiencing significant hair loss can be worrying, stressful, and even devastating. Alopecia (hair loss) is a common occurrence that affects millions of people worldwide. It can develop gradually or appear suddenly and affect both men and women of all ages.
Baldness, thinning hair, and receding hairlines are signs of alopecia and can have a significant impact on our self-esteem and quality of life. There are several reasons hair loss occurs, stemming from genetics, medical conditions, medications, or even stress.
Understanding the common causes can help you manage the condition and minimize its impact on your life. Read on as we explore seven common reasons behind hair loss.
Top Reasons for Hair Loss
Possible causes of hair loss include:
Age
As we age, our bodies experience a lot of changes. Hormone levels fluctuate, skin becomes thinner and less elastic, and bones start to shrink. Unfortunately, hair is not immune to the effects of aging.
Just as our skin and bones suffer from the wear and tear of time, so does our hair. Due to the aging process, we may start to see our hair thinning or receding as early as our 30s or 40s.
Genetics (Family History)
If someone suffers hair loss in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself. Hair loss can be hereditary, so if your mother or father has suffered from hair loss, thinning, or baldness, it's possible that you will too. Additionally, certain genetic conditions, such as alopecia areata, can also be passed down from generation to generation.
Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a critical role in our bodies, regulating everything from our mood and metabolism to our reproductive system. Unfortunately, hormonal imbalance can also lead to hair loss.
Changes in hormone levels can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy, menopause, thyroid diseases, and even stress. When there is a hormonal imbalance, it can cause the hair follicles to shrink, leading to thinning hair or hair loss.
Stress
While a certain amount of stress is a normal part of life, chronic stress can harm our physical and mental health. During stressful periods, our bodies go into "fight or flight" mode, releasing a hormone called cortisol.
In small doses, cortisol can be beneficial, helping us manage stress and stay alert. However, when it's at high levels, it can interfere with other hormones in the body. One impacted process is the hair growth cycle, and you may start experiencing thinning or shedding as the hair follicles go into resting mode.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Our hair is made up of protein (keratin), so it's no surprise that a lack of protein can lead to hair loss. Protein provides the building blocks that our hair needs to grow, so when we don't get enough of it, our hair may become brittle, weak, and start to fall out.
Additionally, deficiencies in other nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D, can also cause hair loss. Eating a balanced diet can help ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs for healthy hair growth.
Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders, fungal infections, and skin conditions can cause hair loss. Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss, is one of the most common. Psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions can also lead to hair loss due to inflammation or damage to the hair follicles.
Medications
Certain medications can cause side effects that include hair loss. Drugs used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, and arthritis are some of the most common offenders. If you're taking medication and start to experience hair loss, talk to your doctor about alternative treatments that may be better suited for you.
Grow Your Hair Back with LH Hair Replacement and Enhancement Options
Hair loss can be a frustrating and emotionally upsetting experience. Taking steps to manage stress, eat a healthy diet, and get enough nutrients can help reduce the chances of hair loss. At LH Hair, we are hair loss experts and offer a variety of hair replacement and enhancement options to help you restore your confidence and grow your hair back.
We offer the most cutting-edge technology, along with top-of-the-line hair products and our expert hair restoration specialists to ensure you get the best possible results. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a FREE consultation.
