Understanding the Types and Causes of Hair Loss

Today, Hair loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be distressing and lower self-esteem, but knowing the types and causes of hair loss can help you manage it better.

 

Hair is an important part of our appearance, it frames our face and is often one of the first things people notice about us. When hair loss begins, many people try to hide it with methods such as a combover, wig, or hair transplant, but these measures can sometimes draw more attention to the problem. This shows how much importance we place on healthy and beautiful hair.

 

In the early teenage years, we typically have around more than 100,000 hairs on our heads, each of which follows a growth cycle lasting 2-6 years. It is normal to lose around 50-100 hairs per day, with these hairs entering a resting phase (telogen) for around three months before new growth begins. However, factors such as ageing, illness and hormonal changes can disrupt this cycle, causing noticeable hair fall.

 

In this blog, we will learn about the major causes of hair loss, different types, genetic and lifestyle factors, skin and scalp conditions and when to seek medical advice.

 

Types of Hair Loss

Hair loss is also known as alopecia. It can be classified into several types, each of which has different characteristics and causes:

1. Androgenetic Alopecia:

Androgenic alopecia (known as male or female pattern baldness) is the most common type of hair loss.

 

    •  In men, it usually appears as a receding hairline and bald spots on the top of the head. 

    •  In women, it often leads to thinning hair and a large area of ​​hair loss along the crown.

2. Alopecia Areata:

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes sudden, patchy hair fall on the head, face, and other parts of the body.

3. Telogen Effluvium:

This temporary condition causes widespread thinning of hair. It occurs when many hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase at the same time. It is often caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

4. Anagen Effluvium:

Anagen effluvium is rapid hair fall caused by medical treatments such as chemotherapy. It affects hair that is in the growth phase (anagen), causing a significant amount of hair loss.

5. Traction Alopecia:

Traction alopecia occurs when there is too much tension on the hair, usually due to tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or extensions. The constant pulling damages hair follicles and leads to hair loss.

6. Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia:

Cicatricial (scarring) alopecia is a rare type of hair loss in which inflammation damages hair follicles. This causes scars that prevent hair from growing again. It is permanent and can result from a variety of skin conditions and diseases.

Genetic Causes of Hair Loss

Genetics play a major role in hair loss, especially androgenic alopecia. The condition tends to run in families and can be inherited from either parent. It is influenced by several genes that determine how much hair you are likely to lose and in what pattern.

 

    •  Androgens: Androgens such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) cause androgenic alopecia. DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to become smaller and shortening the hair growth phase. This process leads to thinning of hair and baldness over time.

    •  Family History: Having a family history of hair loss increases the risk. If your close relatives have had hair fall, the chances of this disease being inherited are higher.

 

Lifestyle Causes of Hair Loss

Lifestyle choices can have a huge impact on the health of your hair. Some common lifestyle-related causes of hair loss include:

 

    •  Stress: Constant stress can disrupt the way your hair grows. It can prevent hair follicles from growing hair, leading to hair fall. Stress-related hair loss is usually temporary, but if the stress continues, it can be long-lasting.

    •  Diet and Nutrition: Poor nutrition can weaken your hair, causing it to break and fall out. Not getting enough vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, vitamin D and biotin can have a significant impact on your hair health. Eating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help your hair grow strong and healthy.

    •  Hair care tips: Excessive use of styling tools, chemical treatments and harsh hair products can damage your hair and cause hair loss. Heat styling, colouring and perming weaken your hair roots and can cause breakage. It is important to be gentle with your hair to keep it healthy and strong.

    •  Weight Loss: Extreme weight loss or drastic dieting can cause your hair to fall out temporarily because your body can lack essential nutrients and change your metabolism.

Skin and Scalp Conditions

Many skin and scalp problems can cause hair loss. Identifying and treating these conditions can help effectively manage and prevent hair loss.

 

    •  Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition makes the skin on your scalp become red, swollen and flaky. In severe cases, it can stop hair growth and cause temporary hair loss.

    •  Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a long-term condition in which red, scaly patches appear on the skin, including the scalp. It can affect the hair follicles and sometimes cause temporary hair loss.

    •  Ringworm (Tinea Capitis): Fungal infection on the scalp causes itching and hair loss. It spreads easily and requires antifungal medication to treat it.

    •  Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, can cause small, itchy rashes and hair loss in those areas.

When to See a Doctor About Your Hair Loss

Hair loss is common as we age. But if you notice sudden, excessive, or no apparent hair loss, it's important to consult a doctor. Here are some causes of hair fall that require consultation with a doctor:

 

    •  Sudden or Patchy Hair Loss: If you notice sudden or patchy hair loss, it could mean there is a health problem that you need to get checked by a doctor.

    •  Thinning or Bald Patches: Thinning hair or bald spots could mean you have androgenic alopecia or another condition that needs to be treated immediately. Taking action early can help!

    •  Scalp Itching or Redness: If your scalp is very itchy, red or flaky, it could mean you have an infection or inflammation that needs treatment.

    •  Excessive Shedding: If you are losing more hair than normal, it is best to see a doctor. They can help figure out why it is happening and recommend the right treatment.

    •  Family History: If there is a history of hair loss in your family, it is important to act quickly. Seeing a doctor as early as possible can help you control genetic hair loss and slow down its progression.

 

Conclusion

Hair loss can be really upsetting, but knowing why it happens and what type of hair you have can help you deal with it better. Whether it's due to your genes, how you live or a health problem you have, there are different ways to treat it and keep your hair healthy. If you're worried about hair fall, it's important to see a doctor. Getting help in time can really help prevent and control hair loss.