Thinning Hair-What’s Really Going On?
Have you ever run your hands through your hair and been shocked at how much thinner it feels? You’re not alone. Many people, both men and women, experience thinning hair at some point in their lives.
What causes thinning hair?
Thinning hair can be caused by many factors including genetics, age, hormones, stress, illness, certain medications, poor nutrition and over-styling. If you’ve noticed your hair feels thinner lately and are concerned about what’s causing it, it’s best to speak with a Certified Trichologist who can rule out certain conditions and help determine the true underlying cause. With a correct analysis, they can recommend effective treatment options.
Let’s explore a few of the more common causes of thinning hair and how you may be able to slow down the progression.
1 - Genetics
Genetics plays a major role in many cases of thinning hair. For example, if your mother, father or a grandparent suffered from thinning hair, you may have inherited a genetic pre-disposition to hair loss, as well. Sometimes it skips a generation. Interestingly, it’s not uncommon to see two brothers (or sisters), one with a good head of hair, and one who is experiencing thinning. The sibling with thinning hair likely inherited receptors at the base of the hair follicle that are sensitive to a hormone that is known to cause hair loss.
2 - Hormonal Changes
In both men and women, one of the most common causes of thinning hair is dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Male-pattern hair loss (MPHL) is caused by an excess production of DHT, which binds to receptors at the base of the follicle causing miniaturization and eventual loss of hair. Some men start experiencing hair loss as early as their twenties or thirties. By their 50’s, nearly 65% of men experience thinning hair.
Likewise, female-pattern hair loss (FPHL) is also caused caused by hormonal changes, like those that occur during perimenopause and menopause when estrogen and progesterone levels drop. It can also happen after childbirth. Additionally, thyroid problems can cause hair thinning due to hormonal imbalances. One in four women experience some form of hair loss in their lifetime.
3 - Stress
Stress is another common factor often attributed to thinning hair. Stress affects us all differently, but it can take a toll on our overall health including our skin and hair health. When we are under prolonged periods of stress our body enters into fight-or-flight mode which can cause excessive amounts of cortisol (the stress hormone) to be released into our system. This can lead to increased shedding due to telogen effluvium—a condition where more hairs than normal enter the resting phase, and shed sooner than is typical.
4 - Medications
Certain medications can also lead to hair loss. Common culprits include blood pressure medications, antidepressants and birth control pills. If you’re taking any medication and notice your hair is thinning, be sure to talk to your doctor about it.
5 - Nutritional Deficiencies
Hair loss can also be caused by nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of protein or iron. Hair is mostly comprised of protein; therefore, protein is essential for healthy hair growth. Likewise, iron is necessary to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the cells in the body. Without enough oxygen, cells cannot function properly and may die off, leading to hair loss.
How Can You Reduce Further Hair Thinning?
Once you have identified the underlying cause of your thinning hair, there are several steps you can take to prevent further damage.
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, biotin, vitamin D and protein can help support healthy hair growth. Also, working to reduce stress levels by engaging in activities such as yoga, meditation or exercise can be effective in reducing the production of cortisol, which is known to cause hair thinning.
Avoid using harsh chemicals and over-styling your hair. Instead, use gentle shampoos and conditioners. Consider adding a nutritional supplement designed specifically for hair growth to your daily routine. Also, consider using products that block DHT to your hair treatment protocol.
Finally, advanced treatments such as hair transplants, scalp micropigmentation or low-level laser therapy may be recommended to address more severe cases of hair thinning.
As a Certified Trichologist, people often ask me if there is anything that can really be done about thinning hair, and the answer is YES! Hair thinning can be a distressing experience for many people. However, it is good to know that very often with proper care and treatment, you can grow thicker, stronger, healthier hair.
By identifying the underlying cause of your hair thinning and taking steps to prevent further hair loss, you can help to maintain healthy hair for years to come. Click here to schedule an 1:1 in-person or virtual consultation with me for the best advice on how to manage your specific condition. The sooner you begin a protocol the better the results will be!
