Many people eventually notice that their hair feels thinner and less full.
Hair loss can stem from a wide range of causes, and here’s a clear overview of why your hair may be falling out, and what can help.
What is hair loss?
The medical term for hair loss is alopecia. It describes a condition where more hair is lost than produced.
Regular shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, but hair loss occurs when growth slows down, leading to thinner hair or bald patches on the scalp.
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The hair growth cycle
Each hair goes through three phases: growth, transition, and rest.
The growth phase lasts up to seven years for women, followed by a short transition period and a resting phase of three to four months, after which the hair falls out.
A single hair follicle can repeat this cycle around 30 times during a lifetime.
Pattern baldness
The most common form of hair loss is androgenic alopecia. It causes thinning or baldness on the top of the head while the hair at the sides and back remains intact.
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In women, this often appears around menopause and leads to permanent hair loss.
Patchy hair loss
Patchy hair loss, or alopecia areata, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the hair follicles.
This causes distinct bald spots that often appear suddenly. In most cases, the loss isn’t permanent, in eight out of ten people, hair regrows within one to two years.
Stress-related hair loss
Emotional or physical stress can cause the body to pause hair production, leading to diffuse thinning all over the scalp.
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You may lose more than 300 hairs a day, but this condition is temporary and usually resolves after about six months.
Causes of hair loss in women
Aging, genetics, stress, vitamin deficiencies, pregnancy, and hormonal imbalances can all contribute to hair loss.
Hair follicles may go into a dormant state until the body recovers its balance.
Deficiencies in iron, zinc, and vitamins A, B, and C are especially linked to thinning hair.
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Do vitamins help with hair loss
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to reduced hair density.
Supplements containing iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A, B, and C can support hair regrowth, particularly in cases of stress-induced or patchy hair loss.
However, supplements alone rarely stop hair loss entirely.
Preventing hair loss
Hereditary and autoimmune hair loss can’t be prevented, but you can strengthen your existing hair through proper care and a nutrient-rich diet.
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Vitamins and fish oil may support scalp health, while patience and self-acceptance can help you navigate the process more positively.
When to see a doctor
If you experience sudden or excessive hair loss, consult a doctor. Early intervention offers the best treatment results.
A medical check-up can also reveal underlying issues such as hormonal imbalance or nutrient deficiency.
Medical treatment
Medications containing minoxidil can stimulate sluggish hair follicles and slow down hair loss in cases of pattern baldness.
Results usually appear after about four months. The treatment is available both over the counter and by prescription.
Injections and surgery
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections use the body’s own growth factors to stimulate hair roots and extend the growth phase. While research is still limited, results so far are promising.
Surgical hair transplantation is another option, where healthy follicles are moved from the back of the head to thinning areas.
Results appear after about a year, though the procedure is costly.
This article is based on information from iForm.dk.