The 5 most common causes of hair loss

Losing hair is more common than many think. We normally lose 50–100 strands per day, which is completely natural. But when the loss becomes noticeable — a thinner crown, a receding hairline or diffuse thinning — there is almost always an explanation. Here are the five most common causes. 1. Hereditary (androgenetic) hair loss This is by far the most common cause in both men and women. Behind it lies a genetic sensitivity to the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which slowly shrinks the follicles in the forehead and crown until they stop producing hair. In men it shows as a receding hairline and thinner crown; in women usually as a wider part and diffuse thinning. The follicles at the back and sides of the head are genetically resistant — which is why they work so well as donor hair for a transplant. 2. Hormonal changes Hormones strongly govern the hair cycle. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid disorders and stopping the contraceptive pill can all trigger hair loss. This type is often temporary and balances out once hormone levels stabilise again. 3. Stress and strain Severe physical or psychological stress can force a large proportion of follicles into the resting phase at once. The result — telogen effluvium — often shows only two to three months after the stressful event, as a diffuse loss across the whole head. The good news is that the hair usually recovers once the strain eases. 4. Nutritional deficiency and diet Hair is one of the first things the body deprioritises in a deficiency. Low levels of iron, vitamin D, zinc, B vitamins or protein can cause increased hair loss. Crash diets and severe weight loss are a common hidden cause. 5. Illness, medication and external factors Fever, infections, surgery, certain medications and autoimmune conditions (such as alopecia areata) can all affect hair growth. Even hard pulling of the hair (tight updos) can cause so-called traction alopecia over time. What do you do now? The most important thing is to identify the right cause before choosing a treatment. Temporary hair loss rarely needs more than time and the right nutrition, while hereditary hair loss is permanent and responds best to PRP, medication or — when the follicles have already died — a hair transplant. At a free consultation we assess your scalp and help you find the cause.