In recent years, hair loss has become an increasingly common phenomenon for all age groups and genders. While hair loss is a natural part of aging, factors such as environmental pollution, lifestyle habits, and stress have greatly worsened the condition of many. Excessive or sudden hair loss can affect self-confidence and may be related to genetics, environmental stressors, nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the root cause is key to finding effective solutions and restoring hair health. (Also read: Hair loss in your 30s: Find out about the causes, treatment, tips to prevent premature balding )
Dr. Anandita Sarkar, Medical Director, AAYNA Clinics & Clinically, shared with HT Lifestyle some of the common causes of hair loss and effective ways to treat each of them.
1. Telogen effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a phase that involves rapid hair loss over a period of time. This usually occurs when the hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely, causing significant shedding. As a rule, this happens after several months, when the body has undergone serious changes, such as severe stress, weight loss, surgery or pregnancy. Hair loss in telogen effluvium is temporary and hair starts to grow back as soon as the trigger is removed.
Managing your stress levels and maintaining a balanced diet can greatly speed recovery. However, if the condition becomes extreme, it is always advisable to see a doctor who can prescribe appropriate supplements, including biotin, vitamin D and B12 to support hair growth. In some cases, topical minoxidil is also prescribed as a temporary measure to stimulate hair growth.
2. Androgenic alopecia
Androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness, is more gradual than telogen pattern baldness. Although this is a genetic hair loss, it is also linked to hormonal factors, specifically the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles, hormonal imbalances and endocrine disruptions that can shrink follicles and negatively affect the hair growth cycle .
In men, alopecia begins with hair loss or thinning of the hair on the crown of the head, while in women it begins with diffuse thinning of the hair. Treatment of alopecia can be complex and requires deep medical intervention. In the initial stages, doctors recommend topical solutions such as minoxidil to slow hair loss and stimulate new hair growth, as well as oral medications to lower DHT levels. In chronic cases, people undergo additional options such as hair transplant surgery and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.
3. Stress-induced hair loss
Stress is the biggest factor that worsens hair loss in both men and women. Hair loss can be caused by any stress on the body – emotional or physical. Serious events such as surgery, illness, or any drastic lifestyle change can cause hair loss. Although stress-induced hair loss may be temporary, it can be distressing and last for months.
In order to reverse this condition, it is necessary to relieve stress through appropriate treatments such as meditation, yoga, spending time in nature and getting enough sleep. In addition, doctors are placing more emphasis on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients such as biotin, omega-3, vitamin D and others to stimulate regrowth and stabilize the hair cycle.
4. Effects of medications
There are some medications that can cause hair loss, especially cancer treatments. After chemotherapy, hair loss becomes common and aggressively affects the hair follicles.
5. Nutritional deficiencies
_1664190216729.jpg "Lack of vitamins can lead to thinning and hair loss. (istock photo)")
In addition, people with vitamin deficiencies – especially vitamin B12, vitamin D and ferritin – also contribute to chronic hair loss. As a first-line treatment, it is very important to check for these deficiencies with a blood test. Doctors usually manage low levels by adding appropriate vitamins and dosages to restore hair health. Addressing these deficiencies under medical guidance can improve hair strength and promote hair growth over time.
6. Age-related hair loss
The natural aging process directly affects the body’s hair follicles. As we age, hair loss becomes more common and the rate of growth decreases. Even in the absence of any deficiency or hormonal imbalance, age can lead to thinning and hair loss. In order to slow hair loss, it is helpful to incorporate targeted treatments such as nourishing hair serums into your daily routine. These treatments help strengthen hair and support hair growth, preventing age-related thinning and providing healthier, more resilient hair over time.
“Hair loss is increasingly becoming a common concern for many people. This can have a significant psychological impact on people suffering from premature hair loss. As a strategic approach to dealing with this condition, consulting a dermatologist helps identify the root cause and adopting effective treatments and remedies always lead to better results, so seeking help at the first sign of unusual hair loss helps with the best course of action,” says Dr. p. Anandita.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
