Trichology.

Several factors contribute to hair loss, and the underlying causes can differ based on individual circumstances. Some of the most common factors include:

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1. Genetics

   • Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness): The most common cause of hair loss, where hair loss is inherited from either parent. It leads to gradual thinning, receding hairlines, or bald patches, especially in men, and diffuse thinning across the scalp in women.

2. Hormonal Changes and Imbalances

   • Pregnancy and Childbirth: Pregnancy can cause temporary hair loss due to hormonal fluctuations. Many women experience thicker hair during pregnancy but may notice shedding postpartum.

   • Menopause: During menopause, a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause thinning of hair in women.

   • Thyroid Disorders: An overactive or underactive thyroid can cause hair loss, often leading to thinning and breakage.

   • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder common in women, PCOS can lead to thinning hair due to increased androgen levels.

3. Stress

   • Telogen Effluvium: Stress, either physical or emotional, can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding and thinning.

4. Medications and Medical Treatments

   • Chemotherapy: Medications used in chemotherapy can cause hair loss due to the damage to rapidly dividing hair follicles.

   • Other Medications: Blood thinners, antidepressants, acne treatments, and drugs for high blood pressure can also contribute to hair loss as a side effect.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

   • Iron Deficiency: Low iron levels can result in hair thinning, as iron is crucial for healthy hair growth.

   • Vitamin D and Biotin Deficiency: These nutrients play a role in maintaining hair follicles, and a lack of them can lead to shedding and thinning.

   • Protein Deficiency: Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein, and insufficient protein intake can impair hair growth.

6. Scalp Conditions and Hair Damage

   • Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss.

   • Scalp Infections: Fungal infections like ringworm can lead to hair loss in affected areas.

   • Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff: Scalp conditions that cause irritation or inflammation, affecting the health of hair follicles.

   • Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by excessive tension on hair follicles due to tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or buns.

7. Physical Trauma or Injury

   • Scalp Injuries: Physical trauma to the scalp, such as burns, cuts, or surgeries, can cause hair loss in the affected areas.

   • Tight Hairstyles or Excessive Styling: Overuse of heat tools, chemical treatments, and pulling hairstyles can cause breakage and thinning over time.

8. Age

   • Aging Process: As people age, hair naturally thins due to a slowing down of hair growth and a shortening of the hair growth cycle. The production of melanin (the pigment responsible for hair color) also decreases, leading to gray hair.

9. Environmental Factors

   • Pollution and Harsh Weather: Exposure to environmental toxins, pollution, and extreme weather conditions can weaken hair and contribute to hair loss.

   • Chemical Exposure: Frequent use of hair dyes, bleaching, and chemical treatments can damage the hair shaft and follicles, leading to thinning or breakage.