What Are the Most Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men and Women?

 

Hair Loss - Signs and Symptoms | ReHair

Hair is an important part of how we look and feel. Losing it can be upsetting. But did you know that hair loss is common in both men and women? In fact, millions of people around the world deal with it every day.

Let’s explore the most common causes of hair loss and what you can do about them. Whether you are male or female, understanding why hair falls out is the first step to finding the right help.

1. Genetics: The Most Common Cause

One of the biggest reasons for hair loss is genetics. If your parents or grandparents had hair loss, you might have it too.

For Men

This is called male pattern baldness. It usually starts at the temples or on the crown of the head. Over time, the hairline goes back and bald spots can grow bigger.

For Women

Women also experience female pattern hair loss, but it's different. Instead of bald spots, the hair becomes thin all over, especially at the top of the head.

This type of hair loss is called “androgenetic alopecia.” It is very common and happens slowly over time.

Learn more about this type of hair loss from Cleveland Clinic.

2. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a big role in hair growth. When your hormone levels change, it can cause your hair to fall out.

Common hormonal causes include:

  • Pregnancy

  • Childbirth

  • Menopause

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

  • Thyroid issues (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)

In women, hair loss after childbirth is common. This is called telogen effluvium and usually goes away on its own in a few months.

For more on hormone-related hair loss, check this helpful page from Healthline.

3. Stress: Physical and Emotional

Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can also affect your hair.

Types of stress that can cause hair loss:

  • Major surgery

  • Severe illness or fever

  • Emotional shock

  • Sudden weight loss

  • High levels of anxiety or depression

This kind of hair loss is usually temporary and is also a type of telogen effluvium. It happens when hair suddenly stops growing and falls out all at once.

4. Medical Conditions

Some health problems can lead to hair loss. It’s important to get checked by a doctor if you notice sudden or severe hair thinning.

Conditions that may cause hair loss:

  • Alopecia areata – An autoimmune disease that causes patches of baldness

  • Scalp infections – Like ringworm (a fungal infection)

  • Lupus – A chronic autoimmune disease

  • Iron-deficiency anemia – A lack of iron can weaken hair roots

Dr. Pretty Singla, a dermatologist at Pretty Skin Clinic, often sees patients with these conditions. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan can help manage the problem.

5. Medications and Treatments

Certain drugs can make your hair fall out as a side effect. If you started a new medicine and notice hair loss, talk to your doctor.

Medicines that can cause hair loss:

  • Cancer treatments (like chemotherapy)

  • Blood pressure medications

  • Antidepressants

  • Birth control pills

  • Drugs for arthritis, gout, and heart problems

The good news is that in most cases, hair will grow back after stopping the medication.

6. Poor Nutrition

What you eat affects how your hair grows. A poor diet means your body may not get the vitamins and minerals it needs for healthy hair.

Nutrient deficiencies linked to hair loss:

  • Iron

  • Vitamin D

  • Zinc

  • Protein

  • Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can make a big difference. Sometimes, taking supplements may help—but only under a doctor’s advice.

You can read more about this on Healthline’s nutrition and hair loss guide.

7. Hairstyles and Hair Treatments

Your hair care routine can affect how healthy your hair stays.

Things that can damage your hair:

  • Tight hairstyles (like braids, ponytails, or buns)

  • Excessive heat styling (straighteners, curling irons, blow dryers)

  • Chemical treatments (dye, bleach, perm)

  • Rough brushing or towel drying

These habits can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by pulling on the hair. Over time, this can lead to permanent damage if not addressed.

8. Aging

As we age, hair naturally becomes thinner and grows slower. Hair follicles shrink or stop growing new hairs altogether.

This is a natural part of getting older and happens to most people. While you can’t stop aging, gentle hair care and the right treatments can help reduce its effects.

9. Environmental Factors

Sometimes, things in our surroundings can also lead to hair loss.

Examples include:

  • Pollution

  • Exposure to toxins or chemicals

  • Hard water

  • Sun damage to the scalp

Using protective hair products and washing your hair regularly can help protect your scalp from these dangers.

10. Overuse of Hair Products

Some shampoos, gels, and sprays contain harsh chemicals that can harm your scalp and hair. Look for gentle, sulfate-free products that won’t strip natural oils from your hair.

Also, washing your hair too often or using too many styling products can weaken your strands over time.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to see a dermatologist:

  • Sudden hair loss

  • Bald patches

  • Scalp pain or itching

  • Hair falling out in clumps

  • Hair not growing back after months

Getting help early can prevent the problem from getting worse. Dermatologists like Dr. Pretty Singla are trained to find out what's causing hair loss and offer safe, effective treatments.

Treatments Available for Hair Loss

There are many options to treat hair loss, depending on the cause.

Common treatments include:

  • Topical medications (like minoxidil)

  • Oral medications (like finasteride for men)

  • Nutritional supplements

  • Steroid injections (for alopecia areata)

  • Laser therapy

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

  • Hair transplant surgery (in some cases)

Always speak with a dermatologist before starting any treatment. What works for one person may not work for another.

Tips to Prevent Hair Loss

While you may not be able to avoid all types of hair loss, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Helpful tips:

  • Be gentle with your hair

  • Avoid tight hairstyles

  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet

  • Manage stress

  • Wash with mild shampoo

  • Limit heat and chemical styling

  • Get regular health checkups

Final Thoughts

Hair loss can happen for many reasons. For some, it’s a part of aging or family history. For others, it may be caused by stress, illness, or poor nutrition.

The good news is that many causes of hair loss are treatable. With the right care and professional advice, you can protect your hair and even regrow what you've lost.

If you're facing hair loss and want answers, don’t wait. A trained dermatologist like Dr. Pretty Singla, who sees patients at Pretty Skin Clinic, can help you understand what’s going on and guide you toward the best solution for your needs.

To learn more, visit her website: https://prettyskin.in

Disclaimer

The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

When Should I Worry About a Wart Bleeding?

  When Should I Worry About a Wart Bleeding? Warts are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) . While they are usually harmless, a bleeding wart can be concerning. Should you be worried? What causes warts to bleed, and when should you seek medical help? This article will answer all these questions and more. Why Do Warts Bleed? Warts have a rich blood supply , which means they can bleed if injured or irritated. Here are some common reasons why warts might start bleeding: Accidental cuts or scratches: Shaving over a wart or scratching it can break the skin. Friction: Warts on high-contact areas like hands, feet, or knees can rub against clothing or shoes. Picking at the wart: Many people unknowingly pick at their warts, causing them to bleed. Infection: An infected wart may become red, swollen, and bleed more easily. Rapid growth: Some warts grow quickly and develop extra blood vessels, making them prone to bleeding. When Should You Worry About a Bl...
Read more
Image
  What Are Black Lips in Babies? Black lips in babies can be a concerning sight for parents, especially when they appear suddenly or without an obvious cause. While this condition is not always a reason for alarm, it is essential to understand its potential causes and when to seek medical attention. This article delves into the common causes of black lips in babies, how to identify them, and what steps to take to ensure your baby's health. Common Causes of Black Lips in Babies Black lips in babies can result from various factors, ranging from harmless to more serious medical conditions. Below are some of the most common causes: 1. Cyanosis (Lack of Oxygen) Cyanosis is a condition where the skin, especially around the lips, appears bluish or dark due to insufficient oxygen in the blood. This can be caused by: Respiratory Issues: Conditions like asthma, pneumonia, or bronchitis may lead to reduced oxygen levels. Heart Conditions: Congenital heart defects can impede oxygen-rich blo...
Read more
Image
Managing Acne Beyond Adolescence: Adult Acne Tips Acne is often seen as a teenage problem, but it’s not just something that affects adolescents. In fact, adult acne is becoming increasingly common, with many individuals continuing to struggle with skin issues well into their 20s, 30s, and even 40s. While acne can be a challenging condition to manage, especially for adults, there are effective strategies to treat and prevent it. In this article, we will explore the causes of adult acne, how it differs from teenage acne, and provide practical tips on how to manage and prevent it. Whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or persistent acne, the following advice will help you take control of your skin’s health. What Is Adult Acne? Adult acne refers to breakouts that occur after the age of 25. Unlike adolescent acne, which is often caused by hormonal changes during puberty, adult acne can develop due to a variety of factors, including stress, diet, and hormonal imbalances. It...
Read more