What Causes Hair Loss?
Have you noticed an excessive amount of hair in your hair brush? Does your hair seem to be clogging the shower drain more frequently? When you part your hair, have you noticed your scalp is more visible than ever? We struggle to accept that our hair is becoming thinner, weaker and that there is less of it. We search for solutions to hide our scalp and thicken the hair that remains. While we look for answers, it is equally important to understand that genetics and a number of behaviors can lead to hair thinning and hair loss.
Physical stress. If you’re going through a stressful event, it can shock the hair cycle and results in more hair cycling into the shedding phase. Hair loss becomes noticeable approximately 3-6 months after a traumatic event. However, as your body recovers, so will your hair.
Lack of protein. When your body is low on protein, it may ration what it has by shutting down hair growth. Up your intake of fish, meat and eggs. Vegetarian sources of protein include cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, beans and peas.
Male pattern baldness. This type of hair loss, most common by the age of 60, is caused by various genes and male sex hormones.
Female genetics. Androgenic or Androgenetic alopecia is the term for female pattern baldness. You’re more prone to a widened part and hair thinning if you come from a family where women experience hair loss.
Emotional stress. Just as physical stress can cause hair loss, so can emotional stress. Though, it is less likely to take a toll and usually worsens an existing problem rather than triggering a new one.
Anemia. The most common type of anemia is caused by iron deficiency. At it’s worst, anemia can cause hair loss by sending your body into survival mode. Your body channels oxygen to support its function, as opposed to providing nutrients to your hair.
Hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland, located in your neck, produces metabolic hormones as well as hormones that contribute to growth and development. When it’s not functioning properly, low hormone output can contribute to hair loss.
Overstyling. Hair curlers, hot tools and tight braids are all examples of extreme styling that can affect the health of your hair root. Over the years, they can cause your hair to fall out.
By educating ourselves, we can take control and nourish our locks with hair-healthy habits and talk with doctors about any underlying illnesses that could be causing hair loss.
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