More hair than usual in the brush, a widening part or bald spots on the scalp can be unsettling. However, hair loss has many possible causes and does not automatically mean that the hair will fall out permanently.
In addition to genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, illnesses, medications, infections, psychological or physical stress, and nutrient deficiencies can play a role. It is therefore crucial not to reach indiscriminately for dietary supplements or so-called miracle cures, but first to clarify the cause.
How many hairs do you normally lose?
That hair falls out daily is part of the natural hair cycle. Old hairs fall out while new ones grow in. Hair loss becomes noticeable especially when significantly more hair than usual falls out over a longer period, the hair becomes visibly thinner, or individual bald areas develop.
Typical first signs can be:
- an increasingly wider part,
- a thinning ponytail,
- receding temples,
- bald or severely thinned areas,
- an unusually large amount of hair on the pillow, in the shower, or in the brush.
In women, hereditary hair loss often initially appears as a wider part or overall reduced hair volume. In men it often begins at the temples or the crown.
The most common forms of hair loss
Hereditary hair loss
Hereditary hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia, is one of the most common forms. In this condition, the hair roots react more sensitively to certain hormones. The hairs grow increasingly finer and shorter, until in some areas hardly any visible hairs regrow.
In men, receding temples or a bald spot at the back of the head often occur. In women, thinning usually occurs along the part while the frontal hairline often remains intact. Early treatment can slow progression in some affected individuals.
Diffuse hair loss
In diffuse hair loss the hair becomes thinner across the entire head. Possible triggers include, for example:
- severe infections or high fever,
- surgeries,
- childbirth,
- severe stress,
- chronic illnesses,
- thyroid disorders,
- anemia,
- certain medications,
- insufficient energy or nutrient intake.
Hair loss sometimes only begins several weeks or months after the triggering event. If the cause is addressed, hair growth can often normalize again.
Alopecia areata
With alopecia areata, clearly defined bald patches suddenly appear. It is a condition in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles. It can affect individual spots or larger areas.
The hairs can partly regrow on their own. Nevertheless, alopecia areata should be examined by a dermatologist, as different treatments may be appropriate depending on the severity.
Mechanically induced hair loss
Tight hairstyles, extensions, frequent pulling of the hair, or particularly stressful care routines can damage hair and hair roots. If constant tension is applied to the same areas over time, hair loss can become permanent.
Very tight braids, tight buns, and heavy hair extensions should therefore not be worn constantly. Coarse brushing can also further stress already weakened hair.
What causes can be behind hair loss?
Hormones and life phases
Hormonal changes can affect hair growth. Increased hair loss often occurs, for example, some time after childbirth. Menopause or hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome can also be associated with thinning hair.
Stress and physical strain
Not only emotional stress but also severe physical strain can trigger temporary hair loss. This includes serious illnesses, surgeries, high fever, or rapid weight loss.
Because the hair cycle reacts with delay, the increased shedding often begins only some time after the actual trigger.
Diseases and medications
Thyroid diseases, anemia, chronic illnesses, and various medications can promote hair loss. Affected individuals should never stop prescribed medications on their own. If there is a temporal connection, this should be discussed with the treating physician.
Nutrition and nutrient deficiency
A highly unbalanced diet, prolonged crash diets, or pronounced deficiencies can impair hair growth. Possible links include insufficient supply of energy, protein, iron, or other nutrients.
Dietary supplements should not be taken prophylactically in high doses. It is more sensible to have a medical assessment to determine whether a deficiency actually exists.
When should hair loss be medically evaluated?
A medical examination is particularly advisable if:
- hair loss begins suddenly and severely,
- circular bald patches appear,
- the scalp itches, hurts, is reddened, or flakes,
- eyebrows or other body hair also fall out,
- the hair loss persists for several weeks,
- the hair becomes visibly thinner,
- other symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, or cycle disturbances occur,
- the hair loss starts after beginning a medication,
- a child or adolescent is affected.
Depending on the situation, the diagnosis can include an examination of the scalp and hair, questions about illnesses and medications, and blood tests. In certain cases hair roots or the scalp are examined more closely. An effective treatment requires as precise a diagnosis as possible.
What helps against hair loss?
Treatment always depends on the cause. A shampoo alone usually cannot resolve hair loss caused by hormonal issues or illness.
Treatment of the underlying condition
If, for example, a thyroid disease, anemia, inflammation, or a nutrient deficiency is present, treating that cause is the priority. With temporary diffuse hair loss, growth can gradually recover afterwards.
Because hair grows slowly, it often takes several months before a change becomes visible.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is applied topically to the scalp and can be used for certain forms of hereditary hair loss. It does not work for everyone and must be used regularly and long-term. If treatment is stopped, the effect achieved may be lost. Side effects and suitability should be discussed with a medical professional or at the pharmacy beforehand.
Prescription medications
In men, finasteride can be used under certain conditions for hereditary hair loss. The drug is prescription-only and can cause side effects. Different conditions and restrictions apply to women; self-treatment is not advisable.
Depending on the cause, dermatology may also use anti-inflammatory, hormonally active, or other targeted treatments.
Treatment of alopecia areata
In alopecia areata, depending on age and severity, corticosteroid preparations or other dermatological therapies may be considered. Treatment is determined individually.
What can you do yourself for hair and scalp?
Treat hair gently
With increased hair loss the remaining hair is often more sensitive. A gentle care routine is therefore helpful:
- detangle hair gently,
- do not pull strongly on wet hair,
- reduce heat from straighteners or curling irons,
- avoid wearing permanently tight hairstyles,
- avoid aggressive bleaching and frequent chemical treatments,
- apply shampoo primarily to the scalp,
- protect the lengths with suitable care.
Gentle care can reduce hair breakage. However, it does not fix hair loss that originates at the hair root.
Eat a balanced diet
A varied diet supports the body's overall supply. Useful choices include, among others:
- protein-rich foods such as fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products,
- vegetables and fruits,
- whole grain products,
- nuts and seeds,
- high-quality vegetable oils.
With a vegan diet, heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic illnesses, or a prolonged severely restricted diet, it may be sensible to have a medical check of certain nutrients.
Reduce stress
Stress cannot always be avoided. Regular sleep, exercise, rest breaks, and relaxation exercises can help reduce overall strain. If there is severe or persistent psychological stress, professional support should be considered.
Do caffeine shampoos, rosemary oil, and hair vitamins help?
Many products promise denser hair or faster growth. However, the quality of the evidence is very varied.
A cosmetic shampoo remains on the scalp for only a short time and usually cannot eliminate the cause of medically caused hair loss. Oils and scalp massages can also be pleasant but do not replace a diagnosis.
Biotin, zinc, iron, or other supplements mainly help if a corresponding deficiency actually exists. An unnecessarily high intake can cause side effects or distort lab values. Therefore, especially with persistent hair loss, the underlying cause should be investigated first.
Can lost hair grow back?
That depends on the cause. With temporary diffuse hair loss, hair often regrows once the trigger is eliminated. After certain infections hair growth can also recover within several months.
With hereditary or scarring hair loss, complete regrowth is less likely. Early treatment can, however, help slow progression and preserve existing hair longer.
Frequently asked questions about hair loss
Is hair loss in autumn normal?
Many people observe seasonal fluctuations. However, markedly increased, longer-lasting, or visibly thinning hair loss should still be evaluated.
Can frequent hair washing or shampoo cause hair loss?
When washing, mainly hairs that are already at the end of their growth cycle come loose. Washing frequency should be tailored to scalp and hair type. Vigorous rubbing, pulling, and unsuitable care can, however, promote hair breakage.
Does cutting hair help against hair loss?
No. Cutting only changes the visible hair shaft, not the hair root. Newly trimmed ends can, however, make hair appear fuller and better groomed.
Is hair loss after pregnancy normal?
A temporarily increased hair loss a few months after childbirth is common. If it persists for a long time or is very pronounced, it should be medically evaluated.
Which doctor is responsible for hair loss?
First points of contact can be the general practitioner or a dermatology practice. If hormonal causes are suspected, other specialties may be involved.
Conclusion: the cause determines the right treatment
Hair loss can be hereditary, temporary, or the result of an illness. Therefore there is no single treatment that works for everyone. Anyone who suddenly loses a lot of hair, notices bald spots, or observes thinning hair over a longer period should have the cause medically investigated.
A balanced diet and gentle hair care can support hair and scalp. However, they do not replace targeted treatment. The earlier certain forms are recognized, the better existing hair can often be preserved.
Read also:Â Beautiful hair thanks to the right brush
Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
