What causes hair loss?

Experiencing hair disorders can be very distressing. Our hair is our crowning glory, a crucial part of our identity, and hair falling out can affect our confidence and even our mental health.

Anyone can experience hair disorders, but it’s more common in men, and age is also a factor.

Hair loss can occur gradually or very suddenly and can affect your scalp, eyebrows, beard, and even your whole body. Some types of hair disorders are temporary – for example, as a result of stress, chemotherapy, childbirth, and menopause. Some types of hair falling out can, of course, be permanent.

There are a variety of treatments available to prevent further hair disorders and, in some cases, restore hair growth. Treatments for permanent hair loss include hair transplants and tattooing.

You may have tried a variety of different remedies and supplements for your hair loss and be feeling a sense of despair because nothing has helped so far.

If you are experiencing hair loss, the sooner you can get to the root cause and receive the right treatment, the better.

Here are some of the potential reasons for your hair falling out.

1. Hair Loss-Genetic predisposition

If there are hereditary hair disorders in your family, you may be predisposed to losing your hair prematurely. Male or female pattern baldness tends to run in the family, so it is worth finding out if this is something other family members have experienced, now or in the past.

2. Hair Disorders-Health causes

If you have had an illness, have undergone an operation, are experiencing thyroid deficiency or have been prescribed certain drugs, you can experience hair disorder. Autoimmune conditions can cause hair loss, such as alopecia areata, discoid lupus erythematosus, or lichen planopilaris.

3. Hair falling out -Medication

Drugs and treatments that can cause hair falling out to include antiepileptics, antivirals, anticoagulants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, antimalarials, antithyroid drugs, beta-blockers, and retinoids. Excessive Vitamin A and some types of birth control can also cause hair loss.

4. Hair Loss-Lifestyle causes

Following a rigorous diet can be linked to hair loss, as can crash dieting. Excessive sun exposure can also be a factor. And as both active and passive smoking can worsen male or female pattern baldness, these are to be avoided.

5. Tight hairstyles

Hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair can cause hair loss. If you tend to wear your hair in tight haircuts – braiding, cornrows, hair extensions, tight ponytails, and dreads – it’s essential to give your hair a break from these styles and give your hair a chance to recover.

The sooner you find out what’s causing your hair falling out and take steps to stop it, the better your results.

You can find more information on the American Academy of Dermatology website: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding.

I can offer a diagnosis of complex cases and personalized treatment based on your particular needs. I can provide you with advice via online video consultation and still offer face-to-face consultations for urgent cases. To arrange a meeting with me, Dr. Anastasia Therianou, an expert in dermatological care for hair loss and mole problems, call 0203 869 5134 or 0203 464 4884.