Our hair means a lot, doesn't it? It's how we express ourselves, it's part of our look, and honestly, it just makes us feel good. So, when we start noticing our hair thinning – maybe it's falling out more, or the top of our head looks a little bare – it's natural to get a little worried. It's not just about looks; it can affect how we feel about ourselves.

Hair thinning is something many of us go through. It can be caused by all sorts of things: our genes, changes in our hormones, what we eat, and even the everyday stresses of life. It’s like, our bodies are telling us something’s a little off.

But here's the good news: there are things we can do about it. We can learn why our hair is thinning and find ways to make it healthier. There are old, trusted remedies that have been around for ages, and there are also new, modern treatments. This blog is here to help you understand what’s happening and give you simple, practical tips to get your hair looking and feeling its best.

MALE PATTERN AND FEMALE PATTERN HAIR LOSS (GENETIC HAIR LOSS)

If you’ve noticed a gradual thinning on the crown of your head, or your hairline seems to be receding, you might be experiencing pattern hair loss, often referred to as genetic hair loss. It's a common concern, and while the name suggests it's all about family history, there's more to it than just your genes.

Think of your hair follicles, the tiny pockets where each hair grows, like miniature gardens. With pattern hair loss, these gardens begin to shrink, and the hairs they produce become finer and shorter. It's as if the garden is slowly losing its vitality. So, what exactly triggers this process? Let’s take a look-

There are four factors involved with genetic hair loss: 

1. Genetics

2. The influence of male sex hormones on the hair follicle

3. Inflammation around the hair follicles, and

4. Oxidative stress.

With genetics, it used to be thought that male pattern hair loss was a dominant trait (could be inherited from Dad or Mum) and female pattern hair loss was a recessive trait (had to be inherited from both parents). However, it seems life is not so easy. Just because one or both of your parents are showing genetic hair loss does not mean you will exhibit it. Similarly, just because both parents do not show any signs of genetic hair loss does not mean you won’t be affected by this issue. What we can say with certainty is that genetics certainly play a part. And that we can’t change them! 

Most men and women who exhibit genetic hair loss have normal levels of male hormones (androgens) and female hormones (estrogens). What is increased is the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a strong male sex hormone that is produced from testosterone, that triggers the thinning of hair.  

DHT binds to androgen receptors on the surface of affected cells, which leads to the affected hair follicles slowly becoming smaller and finer with each hair cycle. This is termed miniaturization. This means the hair is still replaced but the replacement hair is finer than it previously was.  

Hair follicles at the back and sides of your scalp do not have receptors for androgens and so will never be affected by genetic hair loss. That is why you never thin out in these areas. Furthermore, the fact that females have much lower levels of androgens than men explains why women do not go bald whereas men can. 

A rule of thumb is that estrogens are good for the hair whereas androgens are bad for the hair.  So, with men, the increase in androgen levels at puberty sometimes triggers the start of genetic hair loss. With women, the decline of estrogen at the time of menopause can trigger female pattern hair loss. This also explains why some birth control pills that have an overall androgenic influence on the body, can trigger female pattern hair loss.  

About 90% of men and women who show genetic hair loss have inflammation around the hair follicles. This cannot be seen with the naked eye but requires magnification of about 50 to see it easily. The inflammation is caused by white blood cells attacking the stem cells in the “bulge” region of the hair follicle. Stem cells are essential to the growth of hair so it is important to reduce this inflammation.  

Contributing to this inflammation is what is termed oxidative stress, which is a result of an excess of free radicals over antioxidants. These free radicals can damage hair follicle cells and also lead to the production of a chemical known as transforming growth factor ß1 or TGF ß1 which reduces hair growth. So, it is important to take antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, D, or E, to neutralize the free radicals.  

Therapies for genetic hair loss include measures to reduce inflammation, supplements of antioxidants, therapies to reduce the influence of DHT on the hair follicle, and measures that increase the growth of hair. Natural therapies include the herb, saw palmetto, pumpkin seeds, green tea, and such topical treatments as rosemary oil.

Diffuse Hair Loss

Now, pattern hair loss tends to focus on certain areas, like the top of your head. But what if you're noticing hair shedding from all over? That's what we call diffuse hair loss, or telogen effluvium if you want to get technical. It's like your hair is deciding to take a vacation all at once.

Imagine your hair growing in cycles. There's a growth phase, a resting phase, and then a shedding phase. With diffuse hair loss, a larger-than-normal number of hairs suddenly switch from the growth phase to the resting phase, and then, a few months later, they all decide to shed together. It can be a little alarming when you see more hair coming out in the shower or on your brush.

TEMPORARY SELF-CORRECTING DIFFUSE HAIR LOSS:

Sometimes, diffuse hair loss is just temporary. It’s like your hair is reacting to a shock to the system. Think of it like this:

• After a Big Event: Childbirth, surgery, or a high fever can all trigger this type of shedding. Your body goes through a lot, and your hair is just catching up a few months later.
  

• Dietary Changes: If you've recently gone on a very restrictive diet, or if you're not getting enough of the right nutrients, your hair might start to shed.
  

• Medications: Some medications can also cause diffuse hair loss as a side effect.
  

• Stress: High levels of stress can also trigger diffuse hair loss.

The good news is, in these cases, your hair should start to grow back once your body recovers or you address the underlying cause. It might take a few months, but things should return to normal.

PERMANENT DIFFUSE HAIR LOSS UNTIL CORRECTION OF THE CAUSE 

But sometimes, diffuse hair loss can stick around longer, and that's when it's important to dig a little deeper.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Iron deficiency, in particular, is a common culprit. If you're not getting enough iron, your hair might start to thin.
  
  

• Hormonal Imbalances: Problems with your thyroid or other hormonal issues can also lead to diffuse hair loss.
  
  

• Underlying Health Conditions: In some cases, diffuse hair loss can be a sign of a more serious health condition.

What Can You Do?

If you're experiencing diffuse hair loss, here are some things to consider:

• See a Doctor: It's important to rule out any underlying health conditions. Your doctor can run blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
  

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Make sure you're getting enough protein, iron, and other essential nutrients.
  

• Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
  

• Be Patient: If your hair loss is temporary, it will grow back. Give it time and be gentle with your hair.
  

• Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh chemicals and tight hairstyles that can put stress on your hair.

Diffuse hair loss can be concerning, but remember, there are often solutions. By understanding the causes and taking the right steps, you can help your hair regain its fullness and health.

When to Seek Expert Help: The Trichologist

If you're facing persistent hair loss or scalp issues and haven't found answers, a trichologist can be a valuable resource. They specialize in diagnosing and treating hair and scalp problems.

During a consultation, they'll examine your hair and scalp closely, often using magnification, to identify potential causes. They'll also discuss your medical history and lifestyle to understand the full picture. If necessary, they may recommend blood tests or other diagnostic procedures, working in conjunction with your doctor.

A trichologist can provide personalized advice and treatment recommendations, helping you navigate the complexities of hair loss and find the right solutions for your specific needs.

To find a trichologist near you, search here- https://www.iattrichology.com/trichologists-near-me/

Conclusion

In conclusion, hair thinning and loss can be a distressing experience, but understanding the underlying causes is the first step towards finding effective solutions. Whether it's genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or stress, various factors can contribute to this common concern.  

We've explored different types of hair loss, from male and female pattern baldness to diffuse hair loss, and highlighted the importance of recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate help. Remember, while some hair loss is temporary and self-correcting, persistent or significant thinning warrants a closer look.

By adopting a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, stress management, and gentle hair care practices, you can support your hair's health. In cases where further intervention is needed, consulting a trichologist can provide personalized guidance and treatment options.  

Ultimately, addressing hair thinning is about more than just aesthetics; it's about taking care of your overall well-being. By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your hair health and regain your confidence.