Hair loss is one of the most common problems men and even women face today. There might be a link between genetics and hair loss, but some factors may be due to chemicals that we put in our hair. Here are key factors that can contribute to loss of hair and how it can be curbed.
According to Belgravia Centre, around 40% of men have noticeable hair loss by age 35, 65% by age 60, and 80% by age 80. However, women are affected too. In fact, hair loss in women affects 50% and female pattern baldness is the most common cause.
Male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness are termed as androgenetic hair loss because they are caused by genetics. However, it affects men more than women. But how much hair loss can be considered normal?
Yahoo News reports that the average person loses between 60 and 100 hairs a day, says Anabel Kingsley, a trichologist (a trained scalp expert). Hair loss that is more than the specified number may be due to some factors like stress, illness or malnutrition.
By age 20 to 30 years old, both men and women experience thinning of the hair which is normal. Male and female pattern baldness may be caused by an inherited sensitivity to a chemical called DHT. This chemical is a naturally occurring by product of testosterone but if a person has inherited a specific gene combination, the follicles will be sensitive to DHT levels. Hence, it will shrink and stop working, resulting in falling of the hair.
However, there are diseases that may contribute to thinning of the hair. Thyroid conditions and iron deficiency anemia can aggravate hair loss. Serious illnesses like lupus and gynecological cancers can also contribute to the abnormal falling of hair. When there is a sudden bout of abnormal hair loss, it is advised to seek medical help right away.
In women, chemical processing of the hair like perming, coloring and straightening does not cause hair loss but it destroys the hair's shaft making it brittle and can be mistaken as hair loss. Breakage isn't true hair loss.
There are very few scientifically proven and FDA-approved treatments for hair loss, reports Medicine Net. There are vitamins, shampoos and creams that can be applied to the scalp to help restore the health and growth of hair. Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical medication that is available over the counter, and no prescription is required. It is the most common treatment option prescribed by doctors.
Eating nutritious foods and reducing stress might play a role in the restoration of hair growth. Taking vitamins like biotin could also help both men and women battle hair loss.