Hair loss is a common concern that affects people of all ages and genders. While it is often associated with ageing, it can occur at any stage of life, leaving many people perplexed and looking for answers. Beyond genetics and ageing, there are hidden causes of hair loss that frequently go unnoticed. Understanding these underlying factors is critical for effectively treating and managing hair loss. In this comprehensive guide, we'll look at seven hidden causes of hair loss in men and women, shedding light on the lesser-known culprits behind this widespread problem.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutrition has a very important role to play in maintaining the health of hair and hair growth. Deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals lead to disruption of the hair growth cycle, which leads to excessive hair loss and thinning. Nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and biotin are key components and play an integral role in promoting strong and resilient hair follicles. Also, less protein intake can affect hair growth, as hair is primarily made up of protein, so, having a balanced meal which is rich in nutrient-dense foods such as leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds can help in combating nutritional deficiencies and support proper hair health along with growth.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can cause severe damage to the hair follicles, causing hair loss or thinning. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and fluctuations in oestrogen and testosterone levels can all contribute to hormonal imbalances that affect your hair growth. In women, postpartum hormonal changes can also cause temporary hair loss which is known as telogen effluvium. Taking care of these underlying hormonal imbalances with medication, lifestyle changes, and hormone therapy under medical supervision can help in reducing hair loss which is caused by hormonal changes.
Stress and Anxiety
Chronic stress and anxiety have a negative impact on your overall health, including hair health. Prolonged stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle which results in increased shedding and hair loss. Telogen effluvium, or stress-induced hair loss usually occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase at the same time which causes hair to shed at a faster rate than usual. Mindfulness, meditation, exercise, proper diet, and getting enough sleep can all help in reducing the impact of stress on your hair health.
Environmental Factors
Pollution, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions all of these have many negative impacts on the health of your hair and cause hair loss. Pollutants and toxins present in the environment can damage hair follicles, and cause inflammation and oxidative stress that impedes hair growth. UV radiation from the sun can also cause photoaging of the scalp and hair, resulting in dryness, brittleness, and increased susceptibility to breakages. Wearing protective headgear, applying sunscreen to the scalp, and limiting exposure to pollution can all help protect against environmental-induced hair damage.
Medications and Treatments
Certain medications and medical treatments may have unintended consequences for hair health, such as hair loss, hair greying, and thinning. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunosuppressive medications are used to treat autoimmune conditions that can disrupt the cycle of hair growth, which results in either temporary or permanent hair loss. Also, medications like antidepressants, beta-blockers, and oral contraceptives may also cause hair loss as a side effect. In case you are experiencing some sort of medication-induced hair loss, then you should definitely consult with your doctor and discuss the alternative medications or treatments if there are any as an option to address the risk of hair loss.
Scalp Conditions
Your scalp is the main foundation for healthy hair and hair growth, any underlying scalp conditions can affect your hair health significantly. Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and fungal infections can cause scalp inflammation, itching, and flaking, which can affect the growth cycle of your hair. Excessive production of sebum and sweat, along with the product residues on the scalp can weaken your hair shafts and increase shedding, as it clogs hair follicles and prevents proper circulation. Treating underlying scalp conditions with the best shampoo for hair loss, topical treatments, and regular exfoliation of your scalp can help you get a healthy scalp for strong hair growth. Hair serums are also one of the best product that you can use in this condition, Purehill Hair Softening Serum, is one such serum. It is a revolutionary haircare regime that promotes healthier and shinier hair. It is curated with the potent Fission Aqua shield is the ultimate stimulation for hair hydration, shine, and scalp rejuvenation.
Genetic Predisposition
While genetics play an important role in determining hair characteristics and susceptibility to hair loss, a genetic predisposition to certain conditions can also cause hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common type of genetic hair loss, which can be taken care of in the initial stage by using a few available hair care products for women and hair care products for men. It is defined by progressive thinning of the hairline and crown in a distinct pattern. The onset and severity of androgenetic alopecia can be influenced by the inheritance of specific genes from the maternal or paternal lineages. While genetic hair loss is not entirely preventable, early treatment with medications like minoxidil and finasteride, as well as hair transplantation procedures, can help slow the progression of hair loss and restore hair density.
Wrapping- Up
Hair loss is a very complex problem which is influenced by many factors such as genetic, environmental, hormonal, and lifestyle factors, understanding the underlying causes is critical for effective management and treatment. You can prevent hair loss and promote healthy hair growth by addressing nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress, environmental factors, medication side effects, scalp conditions, and genetics. Furthermore, using targeted hair care products like Purehill's Sulphate-Free Nourishing Shampoo can nourish and hydrate the scalp and hair, promoting overall hair health and vitality, because of the ingredients and compositions.