Why Is Hair Fall: Hair fall is a common problem, which we know as hairfall. But do you know why hairfall occurs and what could be its causes? In this video, hair expert Javed Habib will tell us what are the main causes of hair fall.
Why Is Hair Fall? Understanding the Causes and Solutions
Hair fall, also known as hair loss or alopecia, is a widespread concern affecting people of all ages, genders, and lifestyles. From a few strands on your pillow to excessive hair loss that affects confidence, hair fall can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem. While hair loss is often considered a natural part of aging, its causes are far more diverse and sometimes complex. But why does hair fall occur, and what are the factors behind it? Renowned hair expert Javed Habib sheds light on the causes of hair fall and provides tips to maintain healthy hair.
The Hair Growth Cycle: Why Hair Falls Naturally
Hair growth occurs in a cycle with three main phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair grows actively during this phase, which lasts 2-6 years.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): This is a short phase of about 2 weeks when hair stops growing and detaches from the blood supply.
- Telogen (Resting Phase): Hair rests before falling out, allowing new hair to grow in its place.
It is normal to lose 50-100 hairs daily as part of the natural cycle. However, when the hair loss exceeds this, it becomes a concern, indicating an underlying issue.
Common Causes of Hair Fall
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, biotin, vitamin D, and zinc can weaken hair, leading to hair fall. Poor dietary habits, skipping meals, or relying heavily on processed foods can contribute to these deficiencies.
2. Stress
Stress, both physical and emotional, is a significant contributor to hair fall. Conditions like telogen effluvium, where stress pushes hair follicles into the resting phase, result in excessive shedding.
3. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal imbalances due to conditions like pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause hair thinning and loss. In men, hair fall is often linked to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles.
4. Genetics
If hair loss runs in your family, you are likely to experience androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. This hereditary condition typically manifests as receding hairlines in men and thinning hair in women.
5. Scalp Conditions
Dandruff, fungal infections, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can weaken hair roots, causing hair to fall out prematurely.
6. Excessive Heat and Styling
Frequent use of hair styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage the hair shaft, leading to breakage and fall. Similarly, chemical treatments like coloring, perming, and rebonding strip the hair of natural oils, making it brittle.
7. Medications and Treatments
Certain medications, including those for cancer, depression, high blood pressure, and arthritis, can trigger hair fall as a side effect. Chemotherapy, in particular, targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles.
8. Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions like alopecia areata cause the immune system to attack hair follicles, resulting in patchy hair loss. Other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, may also contribute to hair fall.
9. Environmental Factors
Pollution, exposure to harsh sunlight, and hard water can weaken hair roots and affect scalp health, accelerating hair fall.
10. Poor Hair Care Practices
Using the wrong shampoo, not washing hair regularly, or neglecting scalp hygiene can lead to buildup and weaken hair follicles, making hair more prone to falling out.
Signs That Hair Fall Is Abnormal
While losing a few strands daily is normal, the following signs indicate excessive hair fall:
- Hair thinning that becomes noticeable, especially on the crown or temples.
- Bald patches developing on the scalp.
- Clumps of hair falling out during brushing or washing.
- A widening part in women or a receding hairline in men.
Tips to Reduce Hair Fall by Javed Habib
Javed Habib, a renowned hair expert, emphasizes the importance of addressing the root cause of hair fall to combat the problem effectively. Here are his expert recommendations:
1. Follow a Balanced Diet
Include foods rich in proteins, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. Leafy greens, eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains promote hair health.
2. Maintain Scalp Hygiene
Wash your hair regularly using a mild shampoo suitable for your hair type. A clean scalp reduces the risk of infections and buildup.
3. Oil Massage
Regularly massaging the scalp with oils like coconut, almond, or castor oil improves blood circulation, nourishes hair roots, and strengthens strands.
4. Avoid Heat Styling
Limit the use of heat styling tools and opt for natural drying methods. Protect hair from heat damage by using heat protectant sprays if necessary.
5. Use the Right Products
Choose shampoos, conditioners, and serums free of sulfates and parabens. These harsh chemicals can damage hair and lead to dryness.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water ensures the scalp and hair stay hydrated, reducing brittleness and dryness.
7. Manage Stress
Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine to minimize hair fall caused by stress.
8. Consult a Specialist
If hair fall persists despite following these measures, consult a dermatologist or trichologist to identify underlying medical conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Medical Treatments for Hair Fall
For severe cases, medical interventions may be necessary. Here are some popular options:
- Medications
- Minoxidil: Applied topically, it helps stimulate hair growth.
- Finasteride: An oral medication for men that reduces hair loss by blocking DHT production.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy PRP involves injecting plasma derived from your blood into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
- Hair Transplants Surgical procedures like Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) or Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) involve transplanting healthy hair follicles to balding areas.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) This non-invasive treatment uses lasers to improve blood circulation and promote hair regrowth.
Preventing Hair Fall: Long-Term Strategies
- Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and proper sleep contribute to overall health, including hair health.
- Avoid Overwashing: Washing hair too often can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.
- Protect Hair: Use hats or scarves to protect hair from UV rays and pollution.
- Trim Regularly: Regular trims prevent split ends, maintaining healthier-looking hair.
Conclusion
Hair fall is a multifaceted problem influenced by genetics, lifestyle, environmental factors, and medical conditions. Understanding the root cause is essential for effective treatment and prevention. As Javed Habib suggests, a holistic approach encompassing diet, scalp care, stress management, and proper hair care practices can significantly reduce hair fall and promote healthy hair growth.
If hair fall becomes severe or persistent, seeking professional advice is crucial. With timely intervention and the right care, you can tackle hair loss effectively and restore your confidence. Remember, healthy hair is a reflection of a healthy body and mind.
