Hair has held great significance in many cultures throughout history. According to dermatologist Lars Norlén from Karolinska University Hospital, hair is often linked to identity and self-perception.
In an interview with Netdoktor, he explains that the importance of hair has changed over time.
In the past, some warriors let their hair grow long to appear more intimidating. Today, some soldiers instead choose to shave their heads to signal strength.
The great significance of hair may be one of the reasons why many people become concerned when their hair begins to thin.
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Why does hair fall out?
There can be several reasons for hair loss. According to Netdoktor’s interview with Lars Norlén, factors such as stress, illness, medication, and heredity can affect hair.
Stress can lead to temporary hair loss. Both physical and psychological stress can cause more hair to fall out.
In many cases, however, the hair begins to grow back after three to six months if the cause disappears.
The most common form of hair loss is hormonal hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia. With androgenetic alopecia, however, the hair that has been lost does not grow back, Lars Norlén explains to Netdoktor.
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Advice from experts
Hair care can also influence hair quality.
Hairdresser Sofia Geideby, who was named Sweden’s Hairdresser of the Year in 2025, tells Netdoktor that hair care should be adapted to each individual.
She explains that it is often not the hair washing itself that damages the hair. Rather, it is what people do afterward, such as blow-drying and using heated styling tools.
“There really isn’t one piece of advice that suits everyone, because hair is very individual, just like we humans are”, Sofia Geideby tells Netdoktor.
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Among other things, she recommends washing the hair no more than twice a week and being careful with heat tools.
At the same time, products that add volume can make thin hair appear fuller.
Sources: Netdoktor.
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