10 Surprising Causes of Hair Loss and How to Prevent Them
Approximately 95% of hair loss cases in both men and women are caused by genetic factors. It’s inherited from either the mother’s or father’s side of the family and can start as early as in the teenage years. This condition is known as androgenetic alopecia, or male or female pattern baldness. The remaining 5% can also be caused by a variety of other factors that you may not have considered. In this blog, we’ll explore 10 surprising causes of hair loss and provide tips on how to prevent them.
Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle and cause hair to enter a resting phase, leading to hair loss. To prevent stress-related hair loss, try to reduce your stress levels through meditation, exercise, or other relaxation techniques.- Medications: Certain medications can cause hair loss as a side effect, such as chemotherapy drugs or medications used to treat acne. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about medication-induced hair loss.
- Tight Hairstyles: Pulling your hair back into tight hairstyles, like braids or ponytails, can cause a condition called traction alopecia. To prevent this type of hair loss, avoid tight hairstyles or loosen them up to reduce tension on your scalp.
- Heat Styling: Using hot tools like flat irons or curling irons can damage your hair and cause it to break or fall out. To prevent heat styling-related hair loss, use these tools sparingly and always use a heat protectant spray.
- Iron Deficiency: Iron is essential for healthy hair growth, and a deficiency in iron can lead to hair loss. To prevent iron deficiency-related hair loss, make sure to eat a balanced diet rich in iron-containing foods like red meat, spinach, and lentils.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by thyroid disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause hair loss. Talk to your doctor if you suspect a hormonal imbalance may be causing your hair loss.
- Smoking: Smoking can cause oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to hair loss. To prevent smoking-related hair loss, quit smoking and focus on a healthy lifestyle.
- Over-Brushing: Over-brushing your hair can damage it and cause it to break or fall out. To prevent over-brushing-related hair loss, use a gentle brush and avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet.
- Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D is important for healthy hair growth, and a deficiency can lead to hair loss. To prevent vitamin D deficiency-related hair loss, make sure to get enough sunlight or take a vitamin D supplement.
- Chemical Treatments: Chemical treatments like hair dyes or relaxers can damage your hair and cause it to break or fall out. To prevent chemical treatment-related hair loss, limit your use of these treatments and always follow the instructions carefully.
By being aware of these surprising causes of hair loss and taking steps to prevent them, you can help maintain healthy, strong hair. If you’re experiencing hair loss, be sure to schedule a complimentary consultation with our practice.