Hair loss causes and prevention strategies

Hair loss can stem from various causes, including genetic factors, hormonal changes, and stress. Androgenetic alopecia may manifest as early as adolescence, with more than 50% of men over age 50 experiencing some degree of hair loss. Early warning signs include a receding frontal hairline, thinning at the crown, and a decrease in overall hair density. In women, signs may include a widening part or a general loss of volume.

It is important to distinguish between hair shedding from the follicle and hair breakage due to damage. Shedding from the follicle involves the entire hair strand including the root, whereas breakage results in splintered ends without a bulb. To prevent breakage, dermatologists recommend gentle washing and conditioning, avoiding excessive heat during drying, detangling from the ends upward using wide-tooth combs, and avoiding tight hairstyles that place tension on the follicles.

Stress can also play a role by altering the hair growth cycle, leading to a condition known as telogen effluvium. Experts suggest that early evaluation is key to determining the specific cause of hair loss and implementing appropriate treatments.