Understanding Hair Loss: Causes and Effective Treatments

• Hair typically reaches its peak density and thickness by age 30. After this, as one ages the density and size of hair strands begin to diminish.
• Noticing a significant amount of hair in the drain after washing, finding clumps in the hairbrush, or observing thinning hair or bald spots could indicate abnormal hair loss.
• The most common causes of hair loss include a family history of thinning hair and advancing age.

• People lose about 50-100 hairs per day. However, with around 100,000 hairs on the scalp, this minor loss is often unnoticeable. Moreover, new hair tends to replace lost hair as part of the natural hair growth cycle.
• Hair tends to be at its thickest and fullest until around the age of 30. After this, as one ages, the hair's life cycle shortens, leading to more frequent shedding and finer hair. Eventually, the hair growth cycle may cease and no new hair will grow, resulting in noticeable thinning or baldness.
• Hair loss can occur gradually or suddenly and may be either temporary or permanent. Although hair loss is more common among older adults, excessive hair loss can also occur in younger individuals.

Hair loss refers to the loss of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. The severity of hair loss can vary. Noticing a significant amount of hair in the drain after washing, finding clumps in the brush, or seeing hair thinning or bald spots may indicate excessive hair loss. It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine the root cause of hair loss and to receive appropriate treatment recommendations.

• Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss is a family history of baldness. Research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors, such as stress and pollution, can trigger hair thinning. These factors are linked to the male hormone called androgen, which plays a key role in the hair growth cycle.
• Illness, Surgery, Stress, or Trauma: Such factors can lead to temporary hair loss, which often resolves on its own without treatment.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can cause temporary hair loss, such as during pregnancy, childbirth, stopping birth control pills or menopause.
• Certain Diseases: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, scalp infections and diseases like lichen planus and some forms of lupus, can result in permanent hair loss due to scarring.
• Medication Side Effects: Medications used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, arthritis and depression can contribute to hair loss.
• Sudden Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss over a short period can trigger hair loss.
• High Fever: Experiencing a high fever can lead to shedding hair.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, such as protein, iron and other nutrients, can cause hair thinning.

• Medications: Most treatments for hair loss start with medications, both topical and oral. These should be prescribed by a doctor, as there are potential side effects that need monitoring.
• Treatments: Treatments are available to stimulate new hair growth and maintain existing hair.
• Hormonal Adjustment: Hormonal therapy may be necessary in cases where hair loss is due to hormonal imbalances.
• Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can help address hair deterioration and promote new hair growth.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: PRP can be injected to stimulate stem cell activity in hair follicles.
• Hair Transplant: This surgical procedure involves transplanting hair follicles from the back of the scalp, which is less affected by hormones, to the areas needing more hair.

• Avoid tight hairstyles. Try not to pull, twist, or rub your hair aggressively.
• Ensure a balanced diet, especially rich in iron and protein, to support hair health.
• Choose shampoos suitable for your scalp condition. The shampoo should not cause allergic reactions, itching, dandruff or scalp rash.
• Hair styling products and tools, such as blow dryers, hair straighteners, hair dyes, bleaches and perms, can also contribute to hair loss.
• Manage stress. Keep a relaxed mind. If facing hair loss, consult a doctor to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment tailored to your needs.

Hair loss is a common issue and can happen daily. In most cases, it is temporary. Some people may feel indifferent and accept it, especially when it occurs naturally or with age, making treatment unnecessary. However, for others, hair loss can lead to a lack of confidence, stress and anxiety, affecting daily life. Therefore, it's essential to consult a doctor to diagnose the cause and determine the most effective treatment for hair loss.