Hair is made up of a protein called keratin that is produced in hair follicles in the outer layer of our skin. As follicles produce new hair cells, the old ones are pushed out through the skin’s surface at a rate of about ½ inch per month. A limited quantity of hair shedding is natural and not a cause for concern. However, if you experience an extensive loss, there may be other things to consider.
There are Many Causes of Hair Loss
- Physical trauma – When you have a stressful event such as a car accident, severe illness or any physical trauma, it can shock the hair cycle and can cause temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium.
- Emotional stress – In the case of a divorce, loss of a loved one or caring for an aging parent, emotional stress can cause hair loss.
- Pregnancy – Giving birth is a physically traumatic experience. Women sometimes notice hair loss a month or two after a baby has been delivered.
- Too much vitamin A or certain medications – Overdoing supplements or certain medications such as blood thinners or blood pressure drugs can trigger hair loss.
- Low levels of vitamin B – Although uncommon, low levels of vitamin B can cause hair loss.
- Hereditary – If you come from a family who has dealt with hair loss over the years, chances are you will, too.
- Anemia – Iron deficiency is a problem in almost one in 10 women aged 20 through 49. Anemia can easily be resolved with a simple iron supplement.
- Medical including hypothyroidism – If your thyroid is not pumping enough hormones out to your body, you could experience hair loss.
- Autoimmune-related hair loss – Alopecia areata is the result of an overactive immune system and targets the hair, pushing it out.
- Dramatic weight Loss – Sudden weight loss can cause thinning hair or hair loss.
- Overstyling your hair or certain hair products – Styling products and hair treatments can cause your hair to break or fall out. Tight braids, weaves, chemical relaxers, and hot oil treatments can all contribute to hair loss.
- Anabolic steroids – Anabolic steroids used to bulk up muscle have been linked to hair loss. If the steroid use is stopped, hair loss is typically halted.
