Taking it Personally…Why Hair Loss Happens & What Steps to Take

Hair loss is more common than you think and feels deeply personal. Thinning, brittle hair and volume loss can happen to anyone – especially as you age or during stressful times. It’s estimated that more than 50% of women experience hair loss in their lifetime. Let's delve into the core of hair loss, uncovering its top causes, addressing concerns, all delicately since this topic can bring up some self-consciousness. 

Hair loss isn't just a superficial concern; it often stems from deeper issues. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and age are among the primary culprits. Medical conditions like alopecia, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can also play a role. Stress, poor diet, and certain medications join the narrative, further complicating the tangle.

Here are some other concerns: 

• Hair style: Your style of hair can cause hair loss when your hair is arranged in ways that pull on your roots, like tight ponytails or braids. This type of hair loss is called traction alopecia. If hair follicles are damaged, the loss can be permanent. Other culprits include high heat from blow dryers or flat irons. One that many don’t think about is over-shampooing and brushing too much when your hair is wet. 

• Vitamin deficiency. You might be able to prevent some hair loss by eating a healthy diet that provides necessary nutrients in terms of vitamins, minerals and protein.

• Dieting/rapid weight loss. If you lose more than 15 pounds in a short time, you might lose some of your hair as your body reacts to the shock.

• Restrictive diets. Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Hydration, exercise, and stress management become your allies. Your hair isn't just strands; it's a part of you.

• Over processed scalp hair. Harsh chemicals from bleach, perms, or other products can take their toll, knowing that achieving a look can affect the hair overtime.

Sometimes knowing the hair growth cycle can help tame those wild thoughts of hair loss, when you think your hair isn’t growing…it might not be, but that’s part of the cycle! There are three cycles:

• Anagen phase. About 90% of the hair on your head is in this active growth phase at any time, which can last 2-8 years. Hair grows about 6 inches a year for most people.

• Catagen phase. This short transition phase usually lasts 2-4 weeks. Hair stops growing and separates from its blood supply.  

• Telogen phase. During this cycle, which lasts 2-4 months, the hair rests. Eventually, it sheds and the growth cycle begins again. 

Things that interfere with the growth cycle like medications, illnesses, infections, or chemicals have the potential to stop hair from being formed the right way. Ceramides, the lipids that make up about 50% of your natural skin barrier, also help protect hair cuticles and play a role in thick, healthy hair growth.

If you feel that your hair loss is more than what we’ve discussed here or in the previous blog post How to Lose Your Hair in 10 Days I suggest consulting a healthcare professional to identify the root cause. For those experiencing androgenic alopecia, FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil and finasteride might be options. Medical advancements like low-level laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma injections are also making waves in the field. 

Maybe you just need a reset?! Nature has its remedies too. Herbal allies like saw pumpkin seed oil and rosemary have shown promise in promoting hair growth. Aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, might nurture your scalp. 

Stress, the unseen villain, can wreak havoc on your hair. Embrace practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to calm your mind. Mindfulness isn't just about hair; it's about nurturing your entire being. In reducing stress, you pave the way for hair growth, and other things but we’re talkin hair loss today. ;)

As you navigate the terrain of hair loss, know that you're not alone. Remember that each step, whether through treatments, reducing chemical processes, or intentional dieting, it’s a step, and you should treat yourself with care!