Causes and Risk Factors of Hair Loss

Hair loss is a problem for a huge percentage of the population. By the time they have reached retirement age, up to 85 percent of men and 35 percent of women will experience it to some extent. Let’s look at some of the main reasons and risk factors in hair loss.

Genetics

Genetics plays by far the largest part when it comes to causes for hair loss. Up to 95 percent of hair loss in men is due to an inherited tendency, most commonly from the mother’s side. Genes affect how hair grows, by creating sensitivity to hormones which impact hair growth. Hair loss is caused by the shrinkage of the follicles from which hair grows. It is natural to lose a certain amount of hair every day, but when the follicles shrink, the lost hair is not replaced, eventually leading to baldness.

In men, the genetic predisposition towards hair loss usually shows itself as male pattern baldness. The tendency towards hair loss is usually seen by middle age in males when hair is lost on the forehead and crown. Hair growing on the sides is often not affected.

In women, the most common type of hair loss often starts either at puberty or menopause. Hair tends to thin out all over the scalp, while the hair in front often remains intact.

Stress

Because hair loss from stress is often delayed, it is often not associated with a stressful event. When the body undergoes major stress, hair follicles enter a resting state. When those hairs are shed two or three months later, they do not grow back right away, leading to at least temporary hair loss.

Medication Side Effects

Hair loss is a common side effect of many different medications. Some common anti-depressants, heart medications and drugs that provide arthritis relief can also cause hair loss for as long as they are being used.

Dietary Deficiencies

A diet lacking in protein or iron can also result in hair loss. This is especially common among crash dieters. When the body recognizes a sudden deficiency, it shuts down some follicle production to save energy, resulting in eventual hair loss.

Infection

Infections that affect the scalp directly can cause hair loss. A common one is ringworm. Once the infection is cured, hair usually grows back normally.

Hair Care Habits

There are a number of hair care habits that contribute to hair loss. Hair that is constantly pulled back or worn in tight braids could fall out at the roots. Constant use of blow driers and curling irons can also cause hair to break off or fall out.

There are many other factors that can contribute to hair loss, many of them having to do with illnesses,but the chief reason is still genetic predisposition.

Jennifer Miller is a health fitness expert at health-local. Health-local is canada best national directory for finding Hair Restoration Clinic and Hair loss treatment in Canada.