What Causes Hair Loss?
"There are many causes of hair loss, but the most common cause is hereditary hair loss with age," says Phipps. "Some men and women have a genetic predisposition for hair follicles to be sensitive to certain hormones in the body. These hormones affect the life cycle of hair follicles and cause progressive thinning over time, which can eventually lead to baldness."
While your genes can play a big role in hair thinning and loss, it's not the only provocateur.
“Other causes of hair loss include certain medical conditions, medications or supplements, diet, stress, and certain hairstyles and treatments,” the doctor continues. "Assessed by a hair loss specialist to determine the exact cause of hair loss is important so that appropriate interventions can be initiated."
Conditions such as lupus and other autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, thyroid conditions, and anemia can cause hair loss. Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome who have just given birth or who are going through menopause may also see their hair fall out. Meanwhile, certain medications for acne, birth control, antibiotics, and cholesterol have been found to make the problem worse.
"Hair loss can be exacerbated by certain things, such as stress, casual diets, certain medications, and undiagnosed health conditions," adds Phipps. "The good news is that if the irritating stressor can be identified and eliminated or treated, in most cases the hair loss will decrease and regrow. However, over time the hair loss can become permanent if left untreated."
