Why hair falls out: common triggers

Hair shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, but excessive loss can signal an underlying issue. Several factors can push hair from a growth phase into a shedding phase. Genetics plays a major role in many cases, but medical conditions, certain medicines, and lifestyle stresses are also common triggers.

Medical causes include autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata, fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp, and behavioral conditions like trichotillomania (the compulsive urge to pull out hair). Some systemic illnesses and thyroid disorders can also disrupt normal hair growth.

Medications are another frequent contributor. Drugs used to treat cancer (chemotherapy), rheumatoid arthritis, depression, and hypertension may list hair loss as a side effect. Radiation directed at the head often causes temporary or permanent hair loss depending on dose and duration.

Stress—whether physical (illness, surgery) or emotional—can precipitate telogen effluvium, a condition where hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase and subsequently shed in larger volumes.

How hair loss patterns differ between sexes

Men and women can both experience hair thinning, but the appearance and timeline usually differ:

• Men: Androgenetic alopecia, commonly called male pattern baldness, often starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. In many men it progresses to larger balding areas, sometimes beginning in the late teens or early twenties.

• Women: Female pattern hair loss typically causes diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp, especially around the crown, while the frontal hairline usually remains intact. Complete baldness is uncommon in women, and symptoms often emerge later in life, frequently after menopause.

Recognizing these patterns helps direct evaluation and treatment choices.

Major types of hair loss

Hair loss can be classified by cause and appearance. The most frequent types include:

1. Androgenetic alopecia: The most prevalent form in both sexes, driven by genetic sensitivity to androgens.

2. Alopecia areata: An autoimmune attack on hair follicles that produces round, smooth patches of hair loss on the scalp and sometimes elsewhere on the body.

3. Telogen effluvium: A typically reversible, widespread thinning that follows stressors such as illness, childbirth, or significant life changes.

4. Traction alopecia: Gradual loss caused by repeated tension from tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or hair extensions.

5. Scarring (cicatricial) alopecia: A group of disorders where inflammation destroys hair follicles and replaces them with scar tissue, often causing permanent loss.

Treatment options and what they do

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, extent of loss, and patient preferences. Options range from conservative measures to medical and surgical interventions:

• Topical minoxidil: An over-the-counter liquid or foam that can slow hair loss and promote regrowth for many people.

• Oral finasteride: A prescription medication for men that blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to male pattern baldness.

• Spironolactone: An anti-androgen prescription sometimes used off-label in women to reduce hormonally driven thinning.

• Surgical hair transplantation: Moving hair from denser areas to thinning spots for a permanent cosmetic solution.

• Scalp micropigmentation: Cosmetic tattooing that creates the visual impression of a fuller scalp.

• Low-level laser therapy: Devices that use light to stimulate cellular activity in hair follicles.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): Injections of a patient’s concentrated platelets to encourage follicular recovery and growth.

Choosing a treatment often involves balancing effectiveness, side effects, cost, and convenience. Early evaluation by a dermatologist or trichologist increases the chances of a positive outcome.

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Treatment	Purpose	Typical cost range (USD)
Topical minoxidil	Stimulates growth; slows shedding	$15–$50/month
Finasteride (oral)	Hormonal therapy for men	$20–$100/month
Hair transplant	Permanent redistribution of hair	$3,000–$15,000+ (procedure)
PRP injections	Stimulates follicles with growth factors	$300–$1,500/session
Scalp micropigmentation	Cosmetic densification	$1,000–$4,000 (procedure)

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Costs shown are estimates and vary widely by provider, region, and individual treatment plans.

Daily care and prevention strategies

A healthy scalp and sensible hair habits can reduce avoidable loss:

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with adequate protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Deficiencies can exacerbate shedding.

• Gentle styling: Limit heat styling, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles that create traction.

• Scalp hygiene: Keep the scalp clean and moisturized; treat infections or chronic scalp conditions promptly.

• Stress reduction: Practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and therapy can help prevent or reverse stress-related shedding.

• Early action: Seek professional advice at the first sign of unusual thinning to identify reversible causes.

Emotional effects and support

Hair loss can affect self-image, confidence, and mental health. Common psychological responses include lowered self-esteem, anxiety, social withdrawal, and mood changes. Addressing emotional well-being matters as much as treating the scalp. Options include support groups, counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to cope with the impact of hair changes.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.