Hair loss can happen at any age, but it becomes a significant concern when that hair loss turns permanent. Hair loss does not have to be the end of the story, though. Knowing what causes hair loss can help slow the process in many cases. Professional treatment can rejuvenate hair follicles and encourage better, thicker hair growth at almost any age. Treatments like Alma TED hair restoration give patients a second chance at a full head of hair. Slow hair loss, and keep looking at your best for years to come with help from Simi Doctors.
What Causes Hair Loss?
The story of hair loss is often a complex one. In some cases, such as androgenic alopecia, which has a significant genetic factor, the cause may be straightforward. In such instances, lifestyle factors will play less of a role in determining the rate of hair loss or retainance.
For other patients, thinning hair can be influenced by a range of factors. Identifying these can help slow the process and improve the efficacy of your hair loss treatment. Below, we cover several common causes of hair loss and the types associated with each factor.
Genetics
We will get this one out of the way. Pattern baldness runs in families. While this does not guarantee you will experience balding if your family does, it does increase the likelihood. So, we recommend avoiding any influences that can speed up hair loss.
Hereditary hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss, but a specialist can easily spot and diagnose it, allowing for timely treatment options that significantly slow the process.
Medical Conditions & Hormonal Changes
Even small changes in the body’s systems can radiate effects on hair growth and health. Hormonal changes from gland disorders or pregnancy are common causes of certain types of hair loss. Additionally, some immune-mediated conditions can result in hair loss during flare-ups.
Medications
Not only can medical conditions cause hair loss, but treatments can as well. Most people are familiar with the hair loss associated with chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Still, other less-intensive medications can also trigger hair thinning in some patients. Your medical provider should outline these risks when prescribing medication. If you notice hair loss after starting a new medication, we recommend you contact your physician. In some cases, you may be able to switch to another medication that does not carry these associated risks.
Stress
Losing hair during times of intense stress is normal. Unfortunately, it only tends to add to the stress a patient feels. Fortunately, stress-related hair loss tends to be temporary. When the stressor is removed from the patient’s life, normal hair growth patterns should resume. Regardless, hair loss treatments can be helpful in stimulating your follicles to begin producing healthy hair once again.
Certain Hairstyles
Hairstyles that routinely pull on the hair can contribute to traction alopecia. Typically, this type of hair loss occurs with tight pigtails and cornrows. Certain hair treatments, like hot oils or perms, can also impact hair growth patterns. In cases of scarring at the follicle site, any hair loss may become permanent.
Nutrient Intake
Healthy hair requires plenty of nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. For example, vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) can lead to significant hair loss. No single nutrient guarantees hair loss prevention, but a diverse and well-balanced diet can give your hair a healthier foundation for continued growth.
Smoking
Smoking tobacco comes with a seemingly endless list of risks, including hair loss. Smoking does not necessarily mean you will lose your head of hair. However, it can play a notable role in hair loss, especially if you already have some risk factors. Cutting tobacco out of your daily routine can only lead to a better situation.
Which Causes Should I Worry About?
Many causes of hair loss resolve on their own. Once you adjust the related lifestyle factors, your hair should resume its natural growth patterns. However, male-pattern and female-pattern baldness tend to only progress over time.
If this describes your situation, then your best solution will be to work with a professional. Modern medical treatments have come a long way in stimulating hair growth for women and men alike. While surgical options exist, they best serve patients with significant hair loss.
The ideal solution involves slowing the process before it results in notable hair loss. Nonsurgical options focus on stimulating hair follicles before they become fully inactive. A well-performed treatment can result in thicker, healthier-looking hair without the need for more invasive techniques.
Treat Thinning Hair with a Professional
At our med spa in Simi Valley, Simi Doctors provides top-tier treatments for nonsurgical hair restoration.