Hair fall, also known as hair loss or alopecia, is a common problem that affects both men and women. It can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, stress, medication, and certain medical conditions.

There are different types of hair fall, including gradual thinning, patchy hair loss, and sudden shedding. Hair fall can be temporary or permanent, and it can range from mild to severe.

Hair fall can be distressing and can affect one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. It is important to identify the underlying cause of hair fall and address it as soon as possible to prevent further hair loss and promote hair regrowth.

Top 5 Reasons For Hair Fall

1. Hair Fall And genetic

Hair fall can be influenced by genetics, as hereditary hair loss is the most common cause of hair fall in both men and women. This type of hair loss is called androgenetic alopecia, which is caused by a combination of genes and hormones.

In people with androgenetic alopecia, hair follicles are sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes the follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing new hair. The sensitivity to DHT is inherited from both parents, and the condition can be passed down through either the maternal or paternal side of the family.

The age at which androgenetic alopecia starts and the severity of the hair loss can vary from person to person, and it can affect men and women differently. Men with androgenetic alopecia typically experience a receding hairline and thinning at the crown of the head, while women tend to experience thinning throughout the scalp.

While genetics may play a significant role in hair fall, it’s important to note that other factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions can also contribute to hair loss. If you are experiencing a hair fall, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

2. Hair Fall And Hormonal Change

Hormonal changes can play a significant role in hair fall. Fluctuations in hormones can cause a type of hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia, which is the most common cause of hair fall in both men and women. Androgenetic alopecia is caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a byproduct of testosterone.

In women, hormonal changes related to pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders can also cause hair fall. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause hair to become thicker and fuller. However, after giving birth, the levels of hormones in the body return to normal, which can cause hair to fall out.

In menopause, a decrease in the production of estrogen can lead to hair fall. The hormonal imbalance can cause hair to become thinner and more brittle.

Thyroid disorders can also cause hair fall. An overactive or underactive thyroid can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and lead to hair loss.

If you are experiencing a hair fall, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. They may recommend hormonal therapy or other treatments to help address the issue.

3. Hair Fall And Nutritional Deficiencies

There is a strong link between nutritional deficiencies and hair fall. A diet lacking essential nutrients can weaken hair and cause it to fall out. Some of the key nutrients that are essential for healthy hair include:

1. Protein: Hair is made up of protein, so a lack of protein in the diet can cause hair to become weak and brittle. It is important to consume adequate amounts of protein through sources such as meat, fish, eggs, and plant-based sources such as beans, lentils, and nuts.
2. Iron: Iron is essential for healthy hair growth, and a deficiency can cause hair fall. Iron can be found in foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals.
3. Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps to regulate hair growth, and a deficiency can lead to hair fall. It can be obtained from sunlight exposure, as well as from foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
4. Biotin: Biotin is a B vitamin that is essential for healthy hair growth. It can be found in foods such as eggs, nuts, and whole grains.
5. Zinc: Zinc is important for maintaining healthy hair, and a deficiency can lead to hair fall. Zinc can be obtained from foods such as oysters, beef, and fortified cereals.

Eating a balanced diet that includes these essential nutrients can help prevent hair fall caused by nutritional deficiencies. If you suspect a deficiency may be causing your hair fall, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

4. Hair Fall And Stress

Hair fall and stress are related, and this relationship has been studied by scientists and medical professionals. Stress can cause hair fall in several ways:

1. Telogen Effluvium: Stress can cause a condition called telogen effluvium, which is a type of hair loss that occurs when more hair follicles than usual enter the resting phase. This can cause a significant amount of hair loss over a short period.
2. Trichotillomania: Stress can also trigger a condition called trichotillomania, which is a hair-pulling disorder that causes hair loss.
3. Alopecia Areata: Stress has been linked to an autoimmune disorder called alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss.

In addition to these conditions, stress can also disrupt the hair growth cycle by reducing blood flow and nutrients to the scalp, leading to weaker and thinner hair. Stress can also cause scalp inflammation, which can lead to hair loss.

Several studies have shown a clear link between stress and hair fall. For example, a 2017 study published in the Annals of Dermatology found that stress was a significant risk factor for hair loss in both men and women. Another study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2007 found that stress-induced hair fall in mice was linked to the release of a hormone called corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH).

5. Hair Fall And medical conditions

Hair fall can be caused by various medical conditions. Some of the medical conditions that can lead to hair fall include:

1. Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as lupus, psoriasis, and alopecia aerate can cause hair fall by attacking hair follicles and preventing hair growth.
2. Scalp infections: Fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp, such as ringworm or folliculitis, can lead to hair fall.
3. Thyroid disorders: An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can lead to hair loss.
4. Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 can lead to hair fall.
5. Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause hair loss by damaging hair follicles.
6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause hair fall due to increased levels of androgens, or male hormones.

If you are experiencing a hair fall, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Treating the underlying medical condition may help to prevent further hair loss and promote hair growth.

Some Tips On How To Cure Hair Fall

The treatment for hair fall depends on the underlying cause. Here are some tips on how to cure hair fall based on the most common causes:

1. Genetics: Hereditary hair loss is not curable, but there are treatments available that can slow down or prevent further hair loss. These include medications such as minoxidil and finasteride, hair transplant surgery, and low-level laser therapy.
2. Hormonal changes: Hormonal imbalances that lead to hair fall can be treated by addressing the underlying condition. For example, hormone replacement therapy may be used to treat menopause-related hair loss.
3. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies can be treated by increasing the intake of essential nutrients through a balanced diet or supplements. Foods rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 can help promote hair growth.
4. Stress: Managing stress can help prevent hair fall. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help to reduce stress levels.
5. Medical conditions: Treating the underlying medical condition can help to prevent hair loss. For example, antifungal or antibacterial medications may be used to treat scalp infections, while medications such as corticosteroids may be used to treat autoimmune diseases.
6. Hair care: Taking good care of your hair can also help to prevent hair fall. This includes using gentle shampoos and conditioners, avoiding harsh hair treatments such as hot oil treatments and chemical relaxers, and avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair.

It’s important to speak to your healthcare provider or a hair specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your hair fall. They can help you identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include one or more of the above measures.