Hair Loss Causes
A full head of thick, luscious hair has long been associated with beauty, youthfulness, and overall well-being. However, the reality is that millions of people around the world, both men and women, struggle with hair loss and hair thinning at some point in their lives. To effectively address this common issue, it’s crucial to keep in mind that hair loss and thinning can be a multifaceted issue influenced by genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and environmental factors. While some causes are beyond our control, being aware of the myriad of potential hair loss triggers empowers us to take better care of our hair and overall health.
1. Genetics and Family History
Genetic predisposition is a significant factor in determining whether a person will experience hair loss or not. Androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, is the most common type of hair loss worldwide and is largely hereditary, although it can also be caused by imbalanced hormones, particularly in women. If you have close family members who have experienced hair loss, you may have an increased risk of developing it too.
​
Androgenetic alopecia in men typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while women may notice widening of the part and overall hair thinning. The condition is influenced by the presence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, which shortens the hair growth cycle and leads to the production of shorter, finer hairs.
​
In men, androgenetic alopecia is primarily influenced by genetic factors. It has a strong hereditary component and is often passed down through family generations. The key player in male pattern baldness is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. Hair follicles in certain areas, such as the temples, crown, and frontal scalp, are genetically more sensitive to DHT.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations can have a profound impact on hair growth and shedding. Pregnancy and childbirth, for example, are times of hormonal upheaval that can cause excessive shedding, known as postpartum hair loss. In most cases, this hair loss is temporary and resolves on its own after a few months.
​
Similarly, menopause brings about hormonal changes in women, including a decline in estrogen levels. Estrogen helps promote hair growth, so its reduction can lead to hair thinning and a decrease in hair density.
​
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can also affect the hair growth cycle. With hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), your body slows down, and that includes slowing down hair growth. With hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), your body goes into overdrive, and that can push your hair into a resting phase, leading to increased shedding.
​
And as mentioned above, another hormonal cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. Whereas in men it’s predominantly a genetic condition, in women hormonal imbalances of elevated androgens (male hormones) play a more significant role. While all women naturally produce a certain amount of androgens, when those levels are elevated, it can cause male pattern baldness. PCOS, in particular, is known to cause this type of hair loss, as one of the main symptoms is higher levels of androgens.
3. Age
As we age, it’s natural for hair growth to slow down, and hair follicles to become less efficient at producing strong, healthy hair. This gradual reduction in hair density is a common part of the aging process and affects both men and women. The rate and extent of age-related hair thinning can vary widely among individuals.
4. Physical and Emotional Stress
