Hair Loss

Hair loss is a condition in which hair strands fall out more than normal and hair density decreases. Although everyone naturally loses 50-100 strands of hair every day, when there is more hair loss, this is considered hair loss. Hair loss can be temporary or permanent and can develop due to many different causes.

What are the types of hair loss?

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss):
* It develops due to genetic predisposition. In men, it is usually characterized by thinning and loss of hair on the forehead and crown. In women, thinning is seen all over the hair.

 

2. Alopecia Areata (ringworm):
* It is an autoimmune disease caused by the immune system attacking the hair follicles. It usually causes round and localized hair loss.

 

3. Telogen Effluvium:
* Conditions such as stress, surgery, childbirth, sudden weight loss, trauma, hormonal changes can affect the hair cycle. In this type of hair loss, the resting phase of the hair (telogen phase) increases and the hair falls out en masse.

 

4. Traction Alopecia:
* Continuous stretching of the hair (tight ponytails, braids, etc.) damages the hair follicles and hair loss begins. This can be prevented, but prolonged tension can lead to permanent hair loss.

 

5. Anagen Effluvium:
* During some drug treatments such as chemotherapy, hair loss occurs during the growth phase. Hair usually grows back when the treatment is over.

Genetic Factors: It is more common in people with a family history of hair loss.

Hormones Especially in men, DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a by-product of testosterone, can damage hair follicles. In women, hormonal imbalances (e.g. menopause or postpartum) can also lead to hair loss.

Stress Physical and emotional stress can trigger hair loss.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (especially iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, zinc, biotin, vitamin B7, biotin, etc.) can cause hair loss.

Scalp Problems: Conditions affecting the scalp such as infections, fungal diseases, dermatitis can lead to hair loss.

Medicines and Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, some blood pressure medications and antidepressants can cause hair loss.

Hormonal Disorders: Hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid diseases can lead to hair loss.

Healthy Nutrition: A balanced diet containing vitamins and minerals essential for hair health.

 Stress Management: Stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation can reduce hair loss.