Hair loss is a natural process during which we shed a certain number of hairs every day. On average, losing up to 100 hairs per day is considered normal. However, when hair loss exceeds this rate, it may indicate underlying health issues, reports Baltimore Chronicle.
The reasons for hair loss can vary widely — from simple stress to serious hormonal imbalances. It’s important to identify the cause early, as timely treatment increases the chances of restoring healthy hair.
Main Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss causes can be classified as internal or external. Knowing the source helps choose the right solution.
Internal factors:
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., postpartum, menopause)
- Deficiency of vitamins and minerals
- Thyroid disorders
- Chronic stress and emotional disorders
- Autoimmune diseases
External factors:
- Frequent coloring, use of flat irons or hair dryers
- Poor diet
- Environmental exposure (pollution, seasonal changes)
- Improper hair care
How to Diagnose the Problem
Before starting treatment, proper diagnostics are crucial. This helps identify the type of hair loss and select effective treatments.
Diagnostic methods:
- Consultation with a trichologist or dermatologist
- Blood tests (hormones, iron, vitamin levels)
- Phototrichogram (growth pattern assessment)
- Pull test (to assess severity of shedding)
- Scalp biopsy (in complex cases)
Proper diagnosis helps avoid ineffective treatments and focus on the root cause.
Effective Ways to Fight Hair Loss
Treatment depends on the cause. Often, a combination of internal and external methods is most effective.
Medical treatments:
- Minoxidil-based medications
- Hormonal imbalance therapy
- Vitamin complexes (especially B7, D, iron, zinc)
- Mesotherapy for the scalp
- PRP therapy (platelet-rich plasma injections)
Home remedies:
- Masks with burdock and castor oil
- Nettle and chamomile rinses
- Scalp massage
- Egg yolk and honey masks
- Overnight oil wraps
Nutrition and Vitamins to Strengthen Hair
Diet plays a key role in hair health. Deficiency in protein, iron, or vitamin D can severely affect hair follicles.
Beneficial foods:
- Eggs (protein, biotin)
- Fish and seafood (omega-3, zinc)
- Nuts and seeds (vitamin E, magnesium)
- Spinach and leafy greens (iron, vitamin C)
- Legumes (folic acid, protein)
The table below compares essential nutrients for hair growth:
| Vitamin / Mineral | Effect on Hair Health | Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Biotin (B7) | Strengthens hair structure | Eggs, liver, nuts |
| Vitamin D | Stimulates follicles | Sunlight, fish |
| Iron | Improves blood supply | Red meat, spinach |
| Zinc | Prevents hair breakage | Seeds, seafood |
| Omega-3 | Moisturizes the scalp | Salmon, walnuts |
Lifestyle Changes to Preserve Hair
Your daily habits can either help hair grow or harm it. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Get 7–8 hours of sleep daily
- Avoid stress and practice relaxation (yoga, meditation)
- Limit heat styling tools (curlers, hair dryers)
- Use shampoos free from sulfates and parabens
- Clean your brush regularly and don’t share it
When to See a Doctor
If you’re losing handfuls of hair, notice bald patches, or see a rapid decrease in hair volume — it’s time to seek medical attention.
Warning signs:
- Sudden, excessive hair shedding
- Itching, redness, or scalp rashes
- Noticeable bald spots or thinning
- Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes
- Hair loss after taking medications
Do Natural Remedies Help?
Folk remedies may be effective in the early stages or as complementary care but are not substitutes for professional treatment. They work gently and usually require long-term use.
Popular folk treatments:
- Onion juice for hair loss
- Aloe vera hair masks
- Massage with essential oils (e.g., lavender, peppermint)
- Nettle infusion hair rinses
These methods should be discussed with your doctor, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin.
Hair Loss Prevention
Prevention is always better than cure. Proper hair care and a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce the risk of hair loss.
Prevention tips:
- Use heat protection before styling
- Choose brushes with natural bristles
- Trim split ends every 6–8 weeks
- Avoid tight hairstyles (tight ponytails, braids)
- Stay hydrated (at least 1.5–2 liters of water daily)
Earlier we wrote about why vitamins are crucial for women and how to take them.