Common Factors Leading to Thinning and Balding
A number of factors can cause hair loss or impact the hair growth cycle, including:
Androgenetic alopecia
This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting up to 80% of men and 40% of women to some degree. It is an inherited sensitivity to the hormones androgens, which causes the hair follicles on the scalp to shrink over time. This leads to gradual thinning of the hair and a receding hairline.
Hormonal changes
Fluctuations in hormones during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or due to medical conditions like thyroid disorders can disrupt the hair growth cycle. This may cause sudden or excessive shedding of hair. However, the hair loss is usually temporary.
Medical conditions
Medical conditions like lupus, anemia, autoimmune diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome, scalp infections, skin conditions, and hormonal disorders can cause inflammation, compromise blood flow, or affect hormone levels - all leading to hair loss.
Medications
Certain medications like blood thinners, antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, acne medications, and birth control pills may cause hair shedding as a side effect. This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium.
Stress
Prolonged physical or emotional stress raises cortisol levels, which can prematurely push hair follicles into the resting phase. This results in excessive shedding about 3-6 months later. The hair loss is temporary once stress levels normalize.
Scalp conditions
Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, bacterial or fungal infections can cause itching, inflammation, and scaly buildup on the scalp, disrupting the hair growth cycle. This can worsen hair fall.
Poor nutrition
Deficiencies in iron, zinc, protein, vitamin B12, and other nutrients essential for hair health may cause thinning. A well-balanced diet is important to maintain healthy hair growth