Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common concern for many people. While it's normal to lose up to 100 hairs a day, excessive hair loss can be distressing. In this article, we'll explore the various types of hair loss, their causes, and available treatment options.
Hair is made of a protein called keratin, which is produced in hair follicles in the outer layer of skin. As follicles produce new hair cells, old cells are pushed out through the surface of the skin. The visible hair is actually a string of dead keratin cells.
The average adult head has about 100,000 to 150,000 hairs, and each follicle has its own life cycle, which can be influenced by age, disease, and other factors. The life cycle is divided into three phases:
Anagen: active hair growth that generally lasts between 2 to 8 years
Catagen: transitional hair growth that lasts 2 to 3 weeks
Telogen: resting phase that lasts about 2 to 3 months; at the end of this phase, the hair is shed and a new hair replaces it
There are many types of hair loss, including:
Involutional alopecia: a natural condition in which hair gradually thins with age
Androgenic alopecia: a genetic condition that can affect both men and women, also known as male or female pattern baldness
Alopecia areata: an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss
Alopecia universalis: a condition that causes all body hair to fall out
Trichotillomania: a psychological disorder in which a person pulls out their own hair
Telogen effluvium: temporary hair thinning due to changes in the hair growth cycle
Scarring alopecias: permanent hair loss due to inflammatory skin conditions or other skin disorders
Traction alopecia: hair loss caused by tight hairstyles or hair pulling
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia: a common type of hair loss among Black women, manifesting as a small bald patch that grows over time
Several factors may influence hair loss, including:
Hormonal imbalances, such as abnormal levels of androgens
Genetic predisposition to male or female pattern baldness
Stress, illness, and childbirth
Ringworm caused by a fungal infection
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and birth control pills
Burns, injuries, and X-rays
Autoimmune diseases, such as alopecia areata
Harsh cosmetic procedures, like excessive shampooing, perms, bleaching, and dyeing
Medical conditions, including thyroid disease, lupus, diabetes, and eating disorders
Nutritional deficiencies, such as low protein intake or lack of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, as well as iron and zinc
Treatment for hair loss depends on the underlying cause. Some options include:
Medications, such as minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia)
Hair transplant surgery
Low-level laser therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
Scalp micropigmentation
Wigs or hairpieces
In many cases, hair loss is temporary, and hair will regrow once the underlying condition is treated. However, in some instances, hair loss may be permanent. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
To learn more about hair loss and its treatment options, visit the following reputable sources:
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