Causes
Hair loss
Hair loss can stem from multiple factors
- Genetic Predisposition: The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition known as androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, which affects both men and women. This condition leads to the miniaturization of hair follicles, shortening the growth phase of hair.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues can trigger hair loss. For instance, women may experience postpartum hair loss due to declining estrogen levels.
- Medical Conditions: Several medical conditions can cause hair loss, including alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease that attacks hair follicles) and scalp infections such as ringworm.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate nutrition, lacking vital nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and proteins, can contribute to hair loss.
- Medication and Treatments: Certain medications, including chemotherapy for cancer treatment, can lead to significant hair loss.
- Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can trigger a type of hair loss known as telogen effluvium, which causes hair to enter the resting phase prematurely.