Why Is My Hair Thinning?

We lose on average about 100 hair strands a day and that’s perfectly normal. However, there are many potential triggers when it comes to excessive hair loss in both men and women. Reasons can range from simple and temporary to underlying health conditions – all of which can cause depression and lack of self-confidence. So, why is my hair thinning? Take a look…
Here are the most common reasons for hair loss:

Age

Hair loss can increase leading up to and after the menopause and is one of the factors that causes thinning hair. Hair naturally gets finer as we get older and this is all part of the normal ageing process.

Vitamin or iron deficiency

Lacking in vitamin B12 can take its toll on your hair as well as your energy levels as it affects the health of red blood cells – these carry oxygen to your follicles. Iron deficiency causing anaemia is a common cause as iron is vital for producing hair cell protein.

Stress

Acute stress raises hormone levels which in turn can cause hair loss. It may also affect the scalp and cause eating disorders all of which will impact on the health of your hair.

Hormonal imbalance

If your hormones are unregulated this will play a huge part in shortening the hair growth cycle. An excess of androgens which can be caused by an endocrine disorder can cause hair loss. If you have a genetic predisposition to follicle sensitivity this may worsen the hair fall out.

Medical issues

Problems with thyroid glands which help to maintain the body’s metabolism by controlling protein production and oxygen supply to tissue can impact on hair loss. Chemotherapy, polycystic ovary syndrome, anti-depressants, and blood thinners all promote hair loss.

Excessive weight loss

Dramatic dieting causing nutritional deficiency can show up in your hair – after 6 weeks of weight loss your hair may fall out in excess. Try to adopt a healthy and balanced diet instead as a lack of protein will also shut down hair growth.

Overstyling

Examples of extreme styling include tight braids and hair weaves. Chemical relaxers, hot oil treatments, and high heat settings on curling tongs can all affect hair roots causing damage and minimal hair growth.

Male pattern baldness

This type of hair loss caused by a combination of genes and hormones leaves a receding hairline at the temples and an M-shaped bald area. Most men experience this hair loss by the time they’re 60, but this condition can occur at a much younger age.

Female pattern hair loss

This is referred to as androgenic or androgenic alopecia and is simply the female version of male pattern baldness. You may be prone to it if it’s hereditary – you’ll find a widening of the parting rather than a receding hairline.

How do you stop your hair from thinning?

  • Live healthily – change your diet to eat more protein with plenty of fish and meat. Snack on healthy carbohydrates, and take supplements of iron, copper, zinc, and vitamins when needed.
  • Choose loose hairstyles – change from hair pulled up into tight ponytails and buns to styles that don’t need excessive blow drying.
  • Allow hair to dry naturally and avoid extensions.
  • Look after your scalp – use recommended products to help tone the scalp, loosen the build-up of flakes, and stimulate growth.
  • Take care of your health – if you’ve got any concerns see your GP immediately.

Hair Replacement Systems in London

For effective non-surgical har replacement technology, you need to find a salon that specialises in leading hair replacement systems letting you maintain your usual lifestyle and have your hair styled as normal – Cochrane & Co Hair Replacement Salon in London have the team you need.