Worried about losing too much hair? If you’ve noticed lots of hair on your pillow, in the shower, or stuck in your brush, you might be wondering, “Why is my hair falling out so much?” It’s a common question that many people ask. Let’s find out what’s behind this issue in simple terms. We’ll explore different reasons, like family history, lifestyle, hormones, and health problems, that can make your hair fall out. Ready to learn more? Just keep reading!
WHAT IS THE HAIR GROWTH CYCLE?
The hair growth cycle plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing hair loss. Hair follicles go through distinct phases of growth, rest, and shedding, known as the anagen, telogen, and catagen phases, respectively. The cycle is intricately regulated and influenced by various factors, and disruptions in this cycle can contribute to hair loss. Here’s a breakdown of how the hair growth cycle affects hair loss.
Imagine the Anagen Phase as the vivacious crescendo of this symphony – the zenith of productivity. Here, your hair engages in a captivating stretch-and-grow routine, reaching for its utmost potential.
Transitioning into the Catagen Phase is akin to a brief interlude, a momentary pause for your hair to catch its breath. A hushed stillness descends as it readies itself for the imminent burst of renewed growth, like the calm before a dynamic storm.
The Telogen Phase, a serene resting period lasting 2-3 months, emerges as the concluding movement. Within this tranquil phase, the hair follicle takes a graceful bow, remaining in a state of repose while the hair shaft gently loosens its connection to the scalp – a poignant farewell to one cycle and a poised prelude to the next.
TYPES OF HAIR LOSS: GENETIC AND REACTIVE
GENETIC HAIR LOSS
Genetic hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition characterized by the gradual thinning of hair, predominantly in men but also affecting women. This type of hair loss is hereditary and often linked to hormonal changes, specifically the influence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles. Expert opinions on genetic hair loss emphasize a combination of genetic predisposition, hormonal factors, and aging as key contributors.
REACTIVE HAIR LOSS
Reactive hair loss, also known as telogen effluvium, is a condition where an individual experiences excessive shedding of hair due to various triggers such as stress, illness, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. Unlike genetic hair loss, reactive hair loss is typically temporary and reversible once the underlying cause is addressed. Expert opinions on reactive hair loss stress the importance of identifying and treating the root cause.
11 COMMON CAUSES OF HAIR LOSS
GENETIC PREDISPOSITION
One of the most prevalent reasons for hair loss is genetic predisposition, commonly known as androgenetic alopecia. Inherited factors play a significant role in determining the susceptibility to hair thinning and balding patterns, affecting both men and women.
HORMONAL CHANGES
Fluctuations in hormones can lead to hair loss. Conditions such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and hormonal disorders can disrupt the natural growth and shedding cycle of hair follicles, resulting in temporary or prolonged hair loss.
STRESS AND ANXIETY
High levels of stress and anxiety can contribute to a type of hair loss known as telogen effluvium. Emotional stressors can push hair follicles into a resting phase, causing increased shedding a few months later.
NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES
Inadequate nutrition, particularly deficiencies in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health, can contribute to hair loss. Iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B-vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining healthy hair growth.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, and alopecia areata can result in hair loss. Treating the underlying medical issue is essential in managing and, in some cases, reversing hair loss.
MEDICATIONS
Some medications, including chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and certain antidepressants, have hair loss as a potential side effect. Consulting with a healthcare professional about potential hair-related side effects is important when prescribed new medications.
TIGHT HAIRSTYLES AND STYLING PRACTICES
Excessive tension on the hair shaft due to tight hairstyles or certain styling practices like frequent use of hot tools can lead to a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Regularly pulling the hair into tight ponytails, braids, or buns, as well as consistently using heat styling tools without proper precautions, can gradually damage the hair follicles, contributing to the development of traction alopecia.
CHEMICAL TREATMENTS
Overuse of harsh chemical treatments, such as perming, straightening, or excessive coloring, can damage hair shafts and lead to breakage, thinning, and eventual hair loss. Frequent exposure to chemical treatments weakens the hair’s structure, causing it to become brittle and prone to breakage, ultimately resulting in thinning and the potential for long-term hair loss.
AGEING
As individuals age, hair follicles may become more sensitive to hormonal changes and miniaturize, resulting in finer and shorter hair strands. This natural aging process contributes to overall hair thinning.
POOR SCALP HEALTH
A healthy scalp is crucial for robust hair growth. Conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or fungal infections can affect the scalp’s health, potentially leading to hair loss. Maintaining a clean and well-nourished scalp is vital for preventing these issues.
DRAMATIC WEIGHT LOSS
Dramatic weight loss, whether due to crash diets, extreme calorie restriction, or underlying health issues, can be a significant contributor to hair loss. Sudden and severe weight loss places stress on the body, disrupting the normal growth cycle of hair follicles. This disruption often leads to increased shedding and a condition known as telogen effluvium, where a larger-than-usual proportion of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously.
HOW TO STOP HAIR FROM FALLING OUT
IDENTIFY THE UNDERLYING CAUSE
The first step in treating hair loss is to identify the underlying cause. Consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist to determine whether the hair loss is genetic, hormonal, stress-induced, or related to other medical conditions.
MAINTAIN A BALANCED DIET
Adequate nutrition is crucial for healthy hair growth. Ensure your diet includes a variety of vitamins, minerals, and proteins essential for hair health. Consider incorporating foods rich in iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B-vitamins to support optimal hair growth.
TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as minoxidil, can be effective in promoting hair regrowth. Minoxidil is applied directly to the scalp and is commonly used for androgenetic alopecia. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any topical treatments.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS
In cases of hereditary hair loss, prescription medications like finasteride may be recommended. Finasteride works by inhibiting the hormone DHT, which is associated with hair loss. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to assess its suitability for your specific condition.
PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) THERAPY
PRP therapy involves extracting and injecting the patient’s own platelet-rich plasma into the scalp, stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. While research is ongoing, some individuals experience positive results with this minimally invasive treatment.
LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY (LLLT)
LLLT uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes to stimulate hair follicles and improve hair growth. It can be administered through devices like laser combs or caps. While results may vary, some individuals find LLLT beneficial in reducing hair loss.
SCALP MASSAGE AND ESSENTIAL OILS
Regular scalp massage can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting a healthier scalp environment. Some essential oils, such as rosemary and peppermint oil, are believed to have stimulating effects on hair growth and can be incorporated into scalp massage routines.
MANAGE STRESS
Stress management techniques, including meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises, can be valuable in preventing stress-related hair loss. Practicing relaxation methods helps maintain a balanced hormonal environment conducive to healthy hair growth.
AVOID HARSH STYLING PRACTICES
To prevent further damage, avoid tight hairstyles, excessive use of heat styling tools, and harsh chemical treatments. Gentle care and regular trimming can help maintain the overall health of the hair.
CONSULT WITH PROFESSIONALS
For personalized advice and treatment plans, consult with dermatologists, trichologists, or healthcare professionals specializing in hair health. They can provide tailored recommendations based on the specific causes and characteristics of your hair loss.
WHAT VITAMIN DEFICIENCY CAUSES HAIR LOSS?
As mentioned above, vitamin deficiencies, especially iron, zinc, vitamin D and certain B vitamins, can contribute to hair loss. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to hair follicles. Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue growth and repair, while vitamin D supports hair follicle cycling. B vitamins, including biotin, are essential for overall hair health. A deficiency in these nutrients can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair loss and potential thinning. These are also the main ingredients in anti-dandruff shampoos for hair growth oils.
Maintaining a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods or considering supplementation as directed by a healthcare professional can help address these deficiencies and promote healthy hair growth.
FAQ
1. How many hairs fall in a day is normal?
Between 50 and 100 hairs.
2. Why is my hair falling out when I brush it?
Hair shedding is a natural occurrence in its regular cycle, implying that noticing hairs in the shower or on a hairbrush is typically not a reason for alarm.
3. How much hair is normal to lose in the shower?
On average, individuals lose 50 to 100 hairs daily, with the actual count influenced by the length and thickness of their hair. For those with long or thick hair, the shedding may increase to a range of 150 to 200 hairs on days when they wash their hair.
CONCLUSION
To figure out why your hair is falling out too much, talk to a doctor. They can help you find the best way to treat it. Eating healthy, handling stress, and being gentle with your hair are also important. If you understand why it’s happening and take the right steps, you can make your hair healthier and stronger.
