Hair loss affects millions of people, but the causes often remain mysterious to those experiencing it. Dermatologists point to several conditions that account for the majority of cases.
Androgenetic alopecia, or male and female pattern baldness, represents the most common form. This hereditary condition stems from sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone, a hormone derived from testosterone. People with a family history of hair loss face significantly higher risk, regardless of gender.
Telogen effluvium ranks second. This condition occurs when physical or emotional stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase prematurely. The hair then sheds weeks or months later. Causes include surgery, severe illness, crash dieting, or prolonged psychological stress. Unlike pattern baldness, telogen effluvium typically reverses once the triggering stressor resolves.
Thyroid dysfunction frequently underlies hair loss. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism disrupt the hair growth cycle. Thyroid blood tests reveal whether this gland contributes to shedding. Treatment of the underlying thyroid condition often restores hair growth.
Medications cause hair loss more often than many patients realize. Certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and anticoagulants list hair loss as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs intentionally damage rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles. Patients taking these medications should discuss alternatives with their doctors rather than stopping treatment abruptly.
Nutritional deficiencies play a role in some cases. Iron deficiency, low vitamin D, and zinc insufficiency can trigger or worsen hair loss. A simple blood test identifies these gaps.
Alopecia areata represents an autoimmune condition where the body attacks hair follicles. It causes round, patchy hair loss and affects roughly 2% of the population.
Anyone experiencing unexp