Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Hair loss is a natural part of the hair cycle, with most people losing 50-100 hairs daily without even noticing. However, excessive hair loss can indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. This article explores the common causes of hair loss, treatment options, and preventive measures.

The Hair Growth Cycle

The hair growth cycle begins deep in the scalp and ends when the hair falls out. This cycle consists of three main phases:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase):
The longest phase, lasting up to six years or more, during which the hair grows quickly and reaches its full length. Most of the hair on your head is in this phase.

2. Catagen (Transitional Phase)
A short 2-3 weeks phase when the hair stops growing and the hair follicles start shrinking.

3. Telogen (Resting Phase)
Lasting 1-4 months, this phase sees some hair detaching from the follicle, ready to fall out as new hair starts to grow in its place.

This cycle can be affected by factors such as genetics, nutrition, hormones, illnesses, and stress.

Causes of Hair Loss and Treatment Options

1.   Genetic Hair Loss:
Genetic hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause. It can begin at any age after puberty, though it often appears later in life. Women typically experience thinning hair at the top of the scalp, while men may notice a receding hairline or bald patches.

Treatment: Unfortunately, there is no cure for genetic hair loss. However, treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine), finasteride (Propecia), or hair transplants can slow down the process and stimulate new hair growth.

2.   Aging:
As people age, hair growth slows, leading to thinning or receding hairlines.

Treatment:The same options for treating genetic hair loss apply, including minoxidil and hair transplants.

3.   Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or due to thyroid issues or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hair loss.

Treatment: Addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance, such as taking hormone-regulating medications or thyroid treatments or using spironolactone (Aldactone) in cases of PCOS.

4.   Nutritional Deficiencies:
A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, biotin, or protein, can weaken hair follicles and lead to hair loss.

Treatment: Improving your diet to include foods rich in these nutrients or taking supplements if blood tests reveal a deficiency.

5.   Stress and Emotional Strain:
Chronic stress or recovering from illness, surgery, or childbirth can cause a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair sheds excessively.

Treatment: Managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, regular exercise, and, if necessary, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Hair typically regrows 6-9 months after the stress is resolved.

6.   Medications and Illnesses:
Certain medications, such as those for cancer, depression, or high blood pressure, can have hair loss as a side effect. Additionally, skin conditions like alopecia, fungal infections, or autoimmune diseases can contribute to hair loss.

Treatment: Your doctor may adjust your medication dosage or switch to an alternative drug, and skin conditions may require specific treatments like corticosteroids or antifungals.

Hair Care Tips

• Wash your hair regularly with gentle shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type.
• Avoid hot oil treatments or excessive heat, as they can weaken and damage hair.
• Gently brush or comb your hair, allowing it to air dry when possible.
• Quit smoking, as it negatively impacts hair health.
• Massage your scalp for 5-10 minutes daily to promote circulation.
• Consider growth-stimulating treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or laser therapy.

When to See a doctor

Contact a healthcare professional if you experience scalp irritation, itching, burning, sudden or significant hair loss, or hair loss across your entire body. To maintain your hair’s health and vitality, book an appointment with the Dermatology Department at Al Ahli Hospital. We offer precise diagnoses and personalized treatments to address your hair concerns.