Are you worried about the hair you see falling on your pillow every morning? Is daily hair shedding normal, or has it exceeded the typical amount?
It’s normal for a person to lose between 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. However, if hair loss exceeds this amount, it may indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of hair loss and available treatments.
What Is Hair Loss?
A person normally loses up to 100 hairs a day as part of the hair growth cycle, during which new hairs grow to replace the ones that fall out. But when hair is lost at a rate faster than it is replaced, hair loss becomes a concern.
Types of Hair Loss
Hair loss can be either temporary or permanent. The most common types include:
-
Androgenic alopecia: Also known as genetic or pattern baldness, it is the most common type and affects both men and women.
-
Alopecia areata: An autoimmune condition that causes sudden hair loss in round patches on the scalp or body.
-
Telogen effluvium: Occurs due to physical or emotional stress or sudden hormonal changes, characterized by noticeable hair shedding over a short period.
-
Hair loss due to medical treatments: Such as chemotherapy, which can lead to rapid and extensive hair shedding.
Symptoms of Hair Loss
The main symptom of hair loss (alopecia) is losing more hair than usual. However, it’s not always easy to notice. Here are some signs to look out for:
-
Widening part line: If your hair part seems wider than before, it may indicate gradual hair thinning.
-
Receding hairline: Noticing your hairline moving back, especially at the front, can be an early sign.
-
Excess hair on your brush or comb: If grooming tools are collecting more hair than usual, it may be a symptom.
-
Bald patches: These may start small and grow over time, commonly appearing on the scalp or other body areas.
-
Clogged drains: Hair accumulation in shower drains is a clear sign of increased shedding.
-
Scalp pain or itching: Some types of hair loss, especially those caused by skin conditions, may come with irritation or discomfort.
Common Causes of Excessive Hair Loss
Hair loss may result from genetic, hormonal, medical, or lifestyle-related factors. Here are the most common causes:
1. Genetics (Androgenic Alopecia)
-
The most common cause, also known as male or female pattern baldness.
-
It progresses gradually with age, typically presenting as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown, affecting up to 50% of people.
2. Hormonal Changes
These include:
-
Pregnancy and childbirth.
-
Menopause.
-
Thyroid problems.
-
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
3. Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions like alopecia areata—an immune disorder where the body attacks hair follicles—can lead to sudden patchy hair loss on the scalp or other areas.
4. Physical or Emotional Stress
Stressful events such as accidents, surgery, loss of a loved one, or serious illness can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary type of hair loss that appears a few months after the event.
5. Radiation and Chemotherapy
These treatments target rapidly growing cells, including hair follicles, causing fast but usually temporary hair loss. Hair often regrows after the treatment ends.
6. Poor Nutrition
Deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, protein, and certain vitamins or minerals can weaken hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
7. Medications and Supplements
Some drugs may cause hair loss as a side effect, including:
-
Cancer treatments (chemotherapy).
-
Antidepressants.
-
Blood thinners.
-
Thyroid medications.
-
High blood pressure medications.
8. Fungal Infections of the Scalp (Tinea Capitis)
A contagious infection that causes scaly, itchy bald patches. If left untreated, these patches can enlarge and become pus-filled.
9. Hairstyles and Overstyling
Tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails can cause traction alopecia. Frequent use of heat styling tools or chemical treatments (like straightening or bleaching) can damage and break the hair, sometimes permanently if scarring occurs.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women
Hair loss in women can occur due to several factors, the most common of which include:
-
Damage to hair follicles.
-
Dietary changes such as rapid weight loss.
-
Stress and psychological pressure.
-
Use of chemical treatments on hair.
-
Undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
-
Underlying health problems such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or vitamin deficiencies.
-
Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause.
-
Use of certain medications or supplements, such as blood pressure or gout medications, or high doses of vitamin A.
-
Genetic factors, especially with a family history of similar conditions.
Tests and Examinations for Diagnosing Hair Loss
Diagnosis typically begins with a comprehensive physical examination, along with a discussion of the patient's medical and family history, diet, and hair care routine.
Doctors rely on several diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of hair loss, including:
-
Blood tests: Help detect nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions that may cause hair loss.
-
Pull test: Involves gently pulling a small group of hairs to assess the amount and stage of hair shedding.
-
Scalp biopsy: Small samples from the scalp or hair roots are examined under a microscope to identify skin conditions or autoimmune diseases.
-
Light microscopy: Used to evaluate the structure of the hair shaft and detect disorders affecting hair growth.
Due to the complexity of the hair growth process, diagnosis may require repeating some tests or performing additional ones if the cause isn’t immediately clear.
Hair Loss Treatment Options
Effective treatments are available for many types of hair loss. Some can stop or slow the loss, and in certain cases, even restore hair growth. For example, in conditions like alopecia areata, hair may regrow without treatment within a year.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, surgery, or other techniques such as platelet-rich plasma or laser therapy.
1. Treating the Underlying Causes
-
If hair loss results from an illness, hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues, or nutritional deficiency, addressing the root cause is the first step. If a specific medication is causing hair loss, the doctor may recommend stopping it temporarily.
2. Medication-Based Treatments
-
Minoxidil (Rogaine):
-
Available over the counter in liquid, foam, or shampoo form.
-
Used once daily for women and twice daily for men; preferably applied to damp hair.
-
Helps regrow hair or slow its loss, but results may take at least six months to appear.
-
Side effects may include scalp irritation and unwanted facial or hand hair growth.
-
Finasteride (Propecia):
-
A prescription medication for men, taken orally once daily.
-
May slow hair loss and promote growth but is less effective in men over 60.
-
Rare side effects include decreased libido and increased risk of prostate cancer.
-
Should not be handled by pregnant women.
-
Other Medications:
Options like spironolactone and dutasteride may be prescribed in specific cases as per medical advice
3. Surgical and Non-Drug Treatments
-
Hair Transplantation:
-
Involves moving hair follicles from dense areas to bald spots.
-
Usually an outpatient procedure, but can be painful and may require multiple sessions.
-
Possible side effects include swelling, inflammation, or bleeding.
-
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP):
-
Blood is drawn from the patient, platelets are separated, and injected into the scalp.
-
Helps stimulate hair growth and slow loss.
-
Laser Therapy:
-
FDA-approved low-level laser devices are used to treat genetic hair loss.
-
Some studies show improved hair density, but current evidence remains limited.
Best Sprays for Treating Hair Loss
Here’s a list of the best sprays for treating hair loss, recommended by dermatologists:
1. Vichy Dercos Aminexil Clinical 5
-
Formula: Contains Aminexil, a derivative of Minoxidil, along with 5 active ingredients that boost hair growth and reduce hair loss.
-
Shows noticeable results within 3 weeks of regular use.
-
Suitable for both men and women.
2. Regain Spray
-
Formula: Contains 5% Minoxidil, approved by the U.S. FDA for treating genetic hair loss.
-
Used twice daily on a dry scalp.
-
Helps reduce hair loss and stimulate new hair growth.
-
Don’t delay treatment – order Regain spray now and stimulate natural hair regrowth.
3. Avogain Spray
-
Formula: Contains Minoxidil in two concentrations: 2% for women and 5% for men.
-
Used to treat hereditary hair loss and stimulates blood circulation in the scalp.
-
Known for its fast absorption and ease of use.
-
Try Avogain spray in your suitable concentration and begin restoring your hair density.
4. Hairgrow Spray
-
Formula: Contains 5% Minoxidil.
-
Strengthens hair follicles and promotes hair strand growth, helping reduce hair loss.
-
Choose Hairgrow spray for stronger, fuller hair with every application.
5. Fingovi Spray
-
Formula: Contains the active ingredient Finasteride at a concentration of 2.275 mg/mL.
-
Used to treat genetic baldness, reduce hair loss, and support new hair growth.
-
Begin treating hereditary hair loss with Fingovi spray and regain your confidence.
Consult a doctor before using any product, especially if you have skin conditions or chronic diseases.
When Should You See a Specialist?
It's recommended to consult a doctor if you're experiencing unexplained hair loss. A specialist can identify the causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Contact your doctor in the following cases:
-
Burning, itching, or irritation of the scalp.
-
Sudden or excessive hair shedding.
-
Hair loss affecting both the scalp and body.
During your visit, be sure to mention any accompanying symptoms such as:
-
Fatigue.
-
Unexplained weight loss.
-
Fever.
-
Changes in bowel movements.
-
Skin rashes or any changes on the scalp or body.
Also, inform your doctor about:
-
Recent surgeries or medical procedures.
-
Dietary changes.
-
New medications or vaccines.
-
The rate at which you're losing hair.
-
Family history of baldness.
All this information helps in making an accurate diagnosis and crafting an effective treatment plan.
How to Prevent Hair Loss
While some types of hair loss can't be fully prevented, these steps can help reduce the risk:
-
Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and essential nutrients.
-
Reduce stress as much as possible.
-
Manage chronic conditions like thyroid disorders.
