Hair loss is a common problem that affects both men and women. Hair loss is normal if it is 50 to 100 per day. Because despite the fact that there are more than a hundred thousand strands of hair on your head, this number of hair is considered insignificant. Under normal circumstances, shed hair is replaced by new hair. But sometimes this does not happen. This is where normal hair loss becomes a hair loss disorder. There are many reasons for hair loss, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, medications, and poor nutrition. Here, we review the common causes of hair loss and the best treatments for each cause.

Causes of Hair Loss

Genetics

One of the most common causes of hair loss is genetics. Male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss are both genetic conditions that are inherited from parents. In men, hair loss usually begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown of the head, while in women, hair loss is usually more diffuse and affects the entire scalp.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can also cause hair loss. Women may experience hair loss due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders. Men can experience hair loss due to an overproduction of androgens, such as testosterone, which can cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.

Medications

Certain medications can cause hair loss as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs, for example, can cause hair loss by attacking rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles. Other medications that can cause hair loss include blood thinners, antidepressants, and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can also cause hair loss. A lack of iron, for example, can cause anemia, which can lead to hair loss. Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies can also contribute to hair loss. Poor nutrition, in general, can weaken hair follicles and lead to thinning hair.

Hairstyling and Hair Treatments

Hairstyling and hair treatments can also contribute to hair loss. Tight hairstyles, such as braids and ponytails, can pull on the hair follicles and cause them to weaken and eventually stop producing hair. Chemical treatments, such as hair dyes and relaxers, can also damage the hair and cause it to break off.

Treatments for Hair Loss

Medications

There are several medications that can be used to treat hair loss, including minoxidil and finasteride. Minoxidil is a topical medication that is applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Finasteride is an oral medication that is used to treat male pattern baldness by blocking the production of androgens.

Hair Transplant Surgery

Hair transplant surgery is a procedure in which hair follicles are removed from one area of the scalp and transplanted to another area that is thinning or balding. This procedure is often used to treat male pattern baldness, but it can also be used to treat other types of hair loss.

Low-Level Laser Therapy

Low-level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level lasers to stimulate hair growth. This treatment is usually administered in a clinical setting, but there are also at-home devices that can be used.

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements can also be used to treat hair loss. Biotin, for example, is a vitamin that is often recommended for hair growth. Iron supplements can also be used to treat hair loss caused by anemia.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes can also be effective in treating hair loss. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals can help to improve the health of the hair. Avoiding tight hairstyles and chemical treatments can also help to prevent hair loss. Stress management techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can also help to reduce stress-related hair loss.

In conclusion, hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, medication, and poor nutrition. The best treatment for hair loss depends on the underlying cause.