Scalp hair loss, also known as alopecia, can have various underlying causes. Some of the common causes of scalp hair loss include :
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness): This hereditary condition is the most common cause of hair loss. It results from a combination of genetic factors and hormonal influences, leading to gradual and predictable hair thinning in specific patterns in men and women.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. In some cases, the hair may regrow on its own.
- Telogen Effluvium: This occurs when a significant number of hair follicles shift from the growing phase (anagen) to the resting phase (telogen) prematurely due to factors such as stress, illness, surgery, medication, or hormonal changes. This leads to diffuse hair shedding a few months after the triggering event.
- Traction Alopecia: Excessive pulling or tension on the hair due to tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, or extensions, can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss, especially along the hairline and the areas where tension is applied.
- Anagen Effluvium: Certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can disrupt the actively growing phase of hair follicles, leading to sudden and widespread hair loss.
- Scarring Alopecia: Inflammatory conditions that damage hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue can result in permanent hair loss. Conditions like lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia fall under this category.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, biotin, and certain vitamins, can affect hair growth and contribute to hair loss.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, such as those occurring during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can lead to hair loss.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases (like lupus), fungal infections, and scalp psoriasis, can cause hair loss.
- Medications: Some medications, such as certain anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and antidepressants, can contribute to hair loss as a side effect.
- Age: As people age, hair growth naturally slows down, and hair follicles may produce thinner and shorter hairs, leading to a gradual reduction in hair density.
- Trauma or Injury: Physical trauma or injury to the scalp, such as burns, surgical scars, or accidents, can damage hair follicles and result in localized hair loss.
It’s important to remember that the specific cause of scalp hair loss can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s recommended to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options based on your individual circumstances. Early intervention can often help manage or slow down hair loss and promote regrowth.
