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The hair on our scalp follows a natural growth cycle, consisting of three main phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): This is the active growth phase, where hair follicles produce new hair. On average, an adult scalp contains around 100,000 hair follicles, and the length of this phase determines how long your hair can grow. The duration of anagen varies between individuals and is the primary factor that influences the length of hair on different parts of the body.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): Following the growth phase, hair enters the short catagen phase, where it stops growing and detaches from the blood supply. During this time, the hair follicle shrinks and begins to form a club-shaped structure.
- Telogen (Resting Phase): After the transition, the hair follicle enters a dormant period where the hair remains in place until it sheds naturally and the cycle starts over. The duration of the resting phase is relatively constant.
What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss, medically referred to as alopecia, occurs when hair falls out at an abnormal rate, leading to thinning or baldness. It is a common condition affecting both men and women, and it can be classified into two broad categories:
Permanent Hair Loss (Androgenic Alopecia)
Often referred to as male or female pattern baldness, this type of hair loss is genetic and irreversible. It is the most common cause of hair loss, with heredity playing a major role in its onset.
Temporary Hair Loss
This type of hair loss can result from a variety of factors, such as illness, skin infections, medications, stress, or hormonal imbalances. Once the underlying cause is addressed, hair may grow back.
Causes of Hair Loss
There are numerous reasons behind hair loss, some of which are:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Androgens, particularly Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are a major factor in hereditary hair loss.
- Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can contribute to hair thinning.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of serum ferritin (iron), calcium, and vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and selenium can weaken hair.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and lack of sleep can trigger excessive hair shedding.
- Hair Abuse: Overuse of hair dyes, perming, straightening, and heat treatments can lead to damage and hair fall.
- Medications: Certain medications such as painkillers, antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, and chemotherapy drugs can lead to hair loss.
- Post-Pregnancy: Hormonal changes after childbirth can result in temporary hair loss.
- Chronic Illnesses: Conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders are often linked with hair thinning.
Other Factors Contributing to Hair Loss & Thinning
In addition to medical causes, lifestyle choices and habits can also affect hair health:
- Poor Hair Care: Neglecting scalp hygiene and not addressing scalp issues can exacerbate hair thinning.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals can weaken hair follicles.
- Reduced Blood Circulation: Lack of proper blood flow to the scalp can hinder hair growth.
- Diet Choices: Consuming fast foods, sugary treats, and fried foods can contribute to poor hair health.
- Smoking: Smoking affects blood circulation, which can lead to hair thinning.
The Emotional Impact of Hair Loss
Hair loss doesn’t just affect appearance—it can also have a significant emotional impact. Most individuals don’t take hair loss seriously until they notice visible thinning or bald patches, by which time they may have already lost over 50% of their hair. This can lead to:
- Loss of Confidence: Thinning hair or baldness can deeply affect self-esteem.
- Impact on Matrimonial Prospects: Hair loss can affect how individuals feel about themselves, especially in social or matrimonial contexts.
- Social Avoidance: Many people begin avoiding social gatherings due to feelings of insecurity.
- Lowered Self-Esteem: Visible hair loss can contribute to feelings of inadequacy or social humiliation.
Taking action early can help mitigate the emotional effects of hair loss and restore confidence.