Why is hair loss more common nowadays?
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In recent years, the frequency of this problem seems to be on the rise, influenced by a combination of factors ranging from daily stress to eating habits, hormonal changes and genetic influences. In this article, we will explore in detail the main causes of hair loss, provide tips on how to deal with this condition and discuss the solutions available, including high-quality hair implants.
1. Stress and Hair Loss: Telogen Effluvium
Link between Stress and Hair Loss
Stress is considered one of the most frequent factors in increased hair loss. When the body is exposed to psychological or physical pressure, it can react by altering the hair's life cycle. This phenomenon is called telogen effluviuma temporary condition in which numerous follicles enter the resting phase prematurely, resulting in more noticeable thinning than usual.
1.2. Alterations in the Growth Cycle
Normally, hair goes through three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition phase) and telogen (resting). In a healthy scalp, about 90% of the hair is in the growth phase. Stress, on the other hand, can unbalance this rhythm, accelerating the transition to the telogen phase and causing widespread and sudden loss. Although this is a reversible process, it can be worrying and affect self-esteem.
1.3. Strategies for Limiting Stress and Falling
Tackling stress-induced hair loss means intervening not only on the hair, but on the overall lifestyle. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, guided breathing, yoga or regular sports activities can help reduce nervous tension. Proper rest, combined with a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals (such as iron, zinc and vitamin D), supports scalp health and promotes regrowth.
2. Impact of Diet and Lifestyle
2.1. The Importance of a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in processed foods and low in essential nutrients can have a negative impact on hair health. Hair needs vitamins, minerals and proteins to grow strong and healthy. Deficiency in nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D and biotin can lead to weak hair growth and increase the risk of hair loss.
2.2. Essential Nutrients for Hair Growth
- Iron: Essential for the production of haemoglobin, which transports oxygen to the hair follicles. Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, one of the main causes of hair loss.
- Zinc: Important for tissue repair and maintenance of the sebaceous glands surrounding the hair follicles.
- Vitamin D: Helps in the creation of new hair follicles and hair growth.
- Biotin: A B vitamin that is crucial for healthy hair, skin and nails.
2.3. Sedentary Lifestyle and Hair Loss
A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to hair loss, as regular exercise is essential for maintaining good blood circulation, which in turn is essential for nourishing hair follicles. Physical activity also helps reduce stress, a major factor in hair loss.
Learn more about how diet and lifestyle affect hair health.
3. Hormonal Changes and Hair Loss
3.1. Hormones and Their Role in Hair Health
Hormones play a crucial role in hair growth. With age, both men and women undergo changes in hormone levels that can affect hair density and quality. One of the best known hormones associated with hair loss is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone.
3.2. Male and Female Baldness
- Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia): This type of hair loss is caused by the sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT. The hair follicles shrink and the hair becomes thinner and thinner, until it disappears completely.
- Female hair loss: Although less common than in men, women can also suffer from androgenetic alopecia, especially after the menopause, when oestrogen levels decrease.
3.3. Solutions for Hormone-Induced Hair Loss
There are various treatments available to counter hair loss caused by hormonal changes. Medications such as finasteride and minoxidil are often prescribed to slow hair loss and promote growth. In addition, specific supplements that balance hormone levels can be helpful.
Learn more about treatments for hair loss due to hormonal imbalances.
4. Genetics and Hair Loss
4.1. Inherited Hair Loss
Genetics is one of the main factors determining hair loss. If alopecia runs in your family, it is likely that you too may experience similar hair loss. This type of alopecia, known as androgenetic alopecia, is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors.
4.2. Androgenetic Alopecia: What to Expect
Androgenetic alopecia presents itself differently in men and women. In men, it often starts with thinning at the temples and vertex, while in women, the loss is more widespread and manifests itself as a general thinning of the hair.
4.3. Tackling Genetic Hair Loss
Although there is no definitive cure for androgenetic alopecia, there are treatments that can slow down the process and in some cases stimulate hair regrowth. Products such as minoxidil and procedures such as hair transplants are commonly used options.
Read more about how to deal with androgenetic alopecia.
5. Environmental Factors and Hair Loss
5.1. Pollution and Hair Damage
Environmental pollution is another factor that can contribute to hair loss. Prolonged exposure to pollutants, such as fine dust and heavy metals, can damage the scalp and hair follicles, leading to less robust hair growth.
5.2. Hair Products and Chemical Damage
The use of aggressive hair care products such as dyes, relaxers and hot styling tools can weaken the hair and increase the risk of hair loss. These products can cause damage to the hair cuticle, making it more vulnerable to breakage and loss.
5.3. Protecting Hair from the Environment
To protect your hair from environmental damage, it is important to use gentle, high-quality products that are free of sulphates and parabens. In addition, the use of protective oils and hats can reduce the impact of pollution and UV radiation on hair.
Find out how to protect your hair from environmental damage.
6. Medical Conditions and Hair Loss
6.1. Autoimmune Diseases
Auto-immune diseases, such as alopecia areata, can cause localised or diffuse hair loss. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing hair loss. This form of alopecia may be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the condition.
6.2. Thyroid disorders
The thyroid gland regulates many functions in the body, including hair growth. Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can negatively affect hair health, leading to slowed growth or excessive hair loss.
6.3. Drugs and Hair Loss
Some medications, such as those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression and heart disease, may cause hair loss as a side effect. This hair loss may be temporary, and hair often grows back once the treatment is over.
Treatments for Hair Loss Induced by Medical Conditions
The treatment of hair loss linked to medical conditions requires a targeted approach to the underlying cause. This may include the use of medication, lifestyle changes or specific therapies to improve hair health.
Read more about managing hair loss caused by medical conditions.
7. Solutions for Hair Loss
7.1. Capillary Prosthetics: An Effective Solution
For those facing significant hair loss or baldness, hair implants are an effective and natural solution. Modern hair prostheses are made from real hair, offering an authentic look and a natural feel. These prostheses are customisable to individual needs, ensuring a perfect and comfortable fit.
7.2. Medical Treatments
There are various medical treatments for hair loss, including topical medications such as minoxidil and oral medications such as finasteride. These treatments can help slow hair loss and, in some cases, stimulate regrowth.
7.3. Surgical Procedures
For those looking for a permanent solution, hair transplantation is a viable option. This procedure involves taking hair follicles from a part of the scalp (usually the back) and implanting them into bald or thinning areas.
7.4. Natural Treatments and Supplements
Supplements containing biotin, zinc and B vitamins can support healthy hair from within. In addition, natural treatments such as castor oil and coconut oil are known to improve hair density and shine.
Learn more about the solutions available for hair loss.
8. Conclusions
Hair loss is a complex problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, diet, hormonal imbalances, genetics, environmental factors and medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is essential to effectively treat hair loss.
If you are facing excessive hair loss, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. There are many treatment options available, from hair implants to medical treatments, which can help you manage and cope with this condition.
For those looking for an immediate and natural solution, our high-quality hair prostheses, made from real hair, are the best choice. With our prostheses, you can return to feeling confident and comfortable with your appearance.
Learn more about our capillary implants and how they can help you regain your confidence.
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