Hair loss is a surprisingly common problem for both men and women. Various factors can cause it, some of which may surprise you. From everyday stress to hormone imbalances, you should be aware of different causes of hair loss to treat and prevent it properly. The International Medicine Journal will explore five surprising reasons for hair loss so you can recognize and address them quickly. Keep reading to learn more about these causes and how to treat them!
Why Does Hair Loss Occur?
Arguably, people of all ages and genders are susceptible to hair loss. When you don’t know why it’s happening or how to stop it, the experience can be infuriating. Learning what triggers hair loss can aid in rectifying the problem and protect against future baldness.
Genetics and hormones can contribute to androgenetic alopecia, the most common type of hereditary hair thinning. This affliction impacts both males and females. Additionally, extreme stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and make strands shed, as can a poor diet. A lack of vitamins and minerals, such as iron and protein, can sap hair follicles of strength and lead to hair loss. Further causes include certain drugs, medical ailments, and grooming habits. Here are five unexpected sources of hair loss.
5 Surprising Causes for Hair Loss
Hair loss concerns many people, but the cause isn’t necessarily evident. While genetics and stress may often be responsible, there are other unexpected origins you should be aware of. Identifying these sources of hair loss allows you to take the necessary measures to rectify the problem and, potentially deter further loss. In the following, five surprising causes of hair loss are enumerated:
Medications
Antidepressants, blood thinners, and cholesterol-lowering medicines are some of the drugs that can cause hair baldness as a side effect. Typically, they interfere with the regular growth pattern of hair, leading to excessive shedding and thinning. If you’re suffering from hair loss and taking medicines, you must chat with your healthcare provider to check if the medicine could be causing the hair loss.
Autoimmune Diseases
Usually, diseases like lupus and alopecia areata can cause hair loss due to the body’s immune system damaging the hair follicles. Depending on the seriousness of the disease, this can bring about either localized or extra hair loss.
Hormonal Imbalances
Unequal hormone levels, like those experienced during pregnancy or menopause, can be responsible for temporary hair loss. A hormone discrepancy could interfere with the natural hair growth cycle, leading to profuse shedding.
Overdose of Vitamin A
Even though vitamins are crucial for healthy hair, too much can be deleterious. Excessive ingestion of vitamin A, be it from medicines or supplements, may bring about hair loss. It’s critical to comply with the daily suggested intake of vitamins and consult a healthcare provider if you’re consuming a supplement.
Hair Styling Practices
Extreme heat styling, like curling irons or flat irons at high heat settings, may damage the hair shaft, thus leading to breakage. Furthermore, tightly bound hairstyles like ponytails or braids may produce tension on the hair follicles, resulting in traction alopecia. Therefore, shunning hairstyles that pull on the hair and heat-free styling alternatives could assist in avoiding hair loss.
Natural Remedies to Combat Hair Loss
While many commercial products are on the market, natural remedies are often a cheaper and safer option. Here are a few natural remedies to help combat hair loss:
Aloe Vera
The Aloe vera gel can help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation. Apply the gel to your scalp for 30 minutes before washing it off.
Onion Juice
Onion juice contains sulfur, which helps improve circulation and promote hair growth. Simply juice an onion and apply it to your scalp for 30 minutes before washing it off.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is famous for its ability to moisturize and nourish hair. It can also help reduce protein loss from hair which usually causes hair breakage and loss. Massage the oil into your scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, and wash it out.
Green Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants that help to promote hair growth. Brew a cup of the tea and apply it to your scalp. Let it sit for half an hour, then wash it out.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil improves hair growth and thickness. Massage a few drops into your scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, and wash it out.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss is an alarming issue that can cause emotional distress in both genders. Fortunately, with the right kind of treatment, hair regrowth is achievable. To discover the cause of hair loss, one must assess one’s hair type and health. Knowing the reason enables the person to take the necessary steps to foster hair growth.
