Top 5 Causes of Hair Loss (And How To Grow It Back)

Have you noticed more stray hair strands on your brush, in the shower drain, or everywhere lately? 

Do you feel less confident with a gradual thinning on the top of your head, noticing a receding hairline, or developing bald spots?

While some hair loss is normal, too much could indicate a deeper issue. However, don't stress too much just yet. In fact, you're not alone. Research suggests that approximately 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States experience some form of hair loss.

Identifying the "root" cause of hair loss should be the main priority when addressing it. This is a crucial step for managing hair loss effectively and targeting the main factor to speed up hair regrowth. After all, hair loss can stem from various factors.

While genetics, underlying medical conditions, and ageing are common contributors to hair loss, other potential triggers must also be considered. Certain habits or lifestyle factors can worsen hair loss or contribute to its onset. 

Here in this blog, we've listed top 5 common causes of hair loss and provided a solution for each cause.

1. Genetics

If your parents or grandparents experienced hair loss, there's a high chance you might, too. Genetics plays a significant role in hair loss, commonly referred to as androgenetic alopecia or male/female pattern baldness. This hereditary condition can start as early as your twenties, leading to gradual thinning on the crown and hairline in men, or overall thinning in women. 

In this cause, hair loss occurs because of the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens, which are male hormones present in both men and women. Over time, these sensitive follicles shrink, producing thinner hair until they eventually stop growing new hair altogether.

While you can't change your genetics, you can still opt for some practical solutions. For example, scalp microneedling has gained attention as a potential treatment for genetic hair loss. 

Scalp microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure involves using a derma roller or a microneedling pen with fine needles to create tiny punctures in the scalp. These micro-injuries stimulate collagen production and increase blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth.

2.High Stress 

High stress levels can be a significant cause of hair loss, affecting many people regardless of age. When you're under constant stress, your body goes into a "fight or flight" mode, releasing a hormone called cortisol. 

Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, pushing more hair follicles into the shedding phase. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, leads to noticeable hair thinning and loss. 

Moreover, stress can trigger scalp conditions like dandruff or psoriasis, further contributing to hair loss.

Incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine can make a big difference in this cause of hair loss. Practices like meditation, yoga, and regular exercise help lower cortisol levels and promote overall well-being. 

Additionally, engaging in relaxation methods such as a soothing scalp massage using a scalp massager can help you release tension while stimulating blood circulation in the scalp.

When you are in a high-stress mode, chances are you're also experiencing sleep deprivation, and unfortunately, lack of sleep can contribute to hair loss too.

Getting enough sleep is also essential for maintaining healthy hair, as it supports hair follicle repair and regeneration. 

3. Ageing

As we age, hair loss often becomes a noticeable issue due to the natural changes our bodies undergo. Hair follicles, which are the tiny structures in our scalp responsible for hair growth, gradually shrink and produce thinner, shorter strands. This process, known as miniaturisation, is primarily influenced by genetics and hormonal shifts.

Our bodies produce less of the hormones that promote hair growth and more of those that can trigger hair loss. Additionally, the scalp's blood circulation decreases with age, reducing the supply of essential nutrients to the hair follicles. While this process is a natural part of aging, it can be distressing for many.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage this cause of hair loss. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, vitamin E, and iron, can strengthen hair follicles. 

Gentle hair care, including the use of mild shampoos and minimising heat styling, helps reduce hair stress. Regular scalp massages with help of a scalp massager with LED light therapy can improve blood circulation, promoting healthier hair growth. 

Over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil, biotin serum and prescription options can also be effective. Additionally, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices offer viable solutions. 

 4. Hormonal Changes 

One common culprit of hair loss is hormonal changes. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating hair growth cycles. For instance, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to an excess of androgens, which can shrink hair follicles and slow down hair growth. 

Similarly, postpartum women often experience hair shedding due to the sudden drop in estrogen levels after childbirth. Even menopause can trigger hair loss, as the reduction in estrogen and progesterone levels can result in thinner, weaker hair.

One of the first steps to combat this cause of hair loss is to consult a healthcare provider to identify and address any underlying hormonal imbalances. Treatments may include hormone replacement therapy or specific medication that can reduce androgen levels. 

Additionally, incorporating topical hair and treatments like a nourishing hair growth serum has proven effective in stimulating hair growth. By addressing the hormonal root of the problem and supporting overall hair health, you can take meaningful steps toward restoring your hair.

5. Scalp Health and Condition

You might not realise it, but maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial to avoid hair loss. Scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can lead to inflammation and irritation, which can weaken hair follicles and cause hair to fall out. 

An overly oily scalp can clog hair follicles, while a dry, flaky scalp can create an unhealthy environment for hair growth. Even buildup from hair products can block follicles and hinder hair growth.

It's essential to maintain a clean and balanced scalp environment. Regularly washing your hair with a gentle shampoo can help remove excess oil and product buildup.

For dandruff or other scalp conditions, using a medicated shampoo containing ingredients like ketoconazole or salicylic acid can reduce inflammation and improve scalp health. 

Incorporating a scalp care device into your routine can boost blood circulation and promote healthier hair growth. You can create a better foundation for strong, healthy hair by focusing on scalp health. 

Conclusion 

Combating hair loss involves understanding its root causes and adopting straightforward solutions. Whether it's genetic predisposition, stress, ageing, hormonal changes, or scalp conditions there are practical steps you can take especially with the advancement of hair growth technology.

Although factors are varied, solutions such as scalp microneedling, scalp massage, using topical treatment such as hair growth serum and oil, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can be a solid foundation for a good hair regrowth regimen.

When practiced regularly, these can be a good step towards a thicker, fuller, and healthy hair.

If you are interested in elevating your hair regrowth routine with the latest effective technology, browse the Dr. Pen Hair Growth Collection. 

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