Overview
People normally lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day. The lost hair is replaced with a cycle of new growth. Although some hair loss is normal, excessive hair loss can result in thinning or balding. According to the Mayo Clinic, pattern baldness (the most common type of hair loss), affects approximately one third of men and women.
Types
Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss. It usually begins with a receding hairline and hair loss on the top of the head. Female pattern baldness occurs in women and begins with thinning of the hair at the front, crown and/or sides of the head. Heredity may play a role in male and female pattern baldness.
Causes
Temporary hair loss can have many causes, such as a hormonal imbalance. Some women may experience hair loss during pregnancy or after giving birth. Various medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) and even birth control pills can cause hair loss. Health conditions such as diabetes or lupus can cause hair to thin and fall out.
Myths
There are several myths surrounding hair loss, such as the belief that wearing hats will cause baldness. According to ConsumerReportsHealth.org, hats do not restrict blood flow enough to damage hair follicles and cause hair loss. Another common myth is that baldness is inherited from the mother’s side of the family. ConsumerReportsHealth.org states that in reality, hair loss can be inherited from either side of the family.
Treatments
There is no cure for baldness, but there are treatments that may promote hair growth and prevent further loss. Rogaine is an example of an over-the-counter medication that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of hair loss. Propecia is a prescription medication used to treat male pattern baldness. Other treatments include topical creams, surgical hair transplants and corticosteroid injections.
Prevention
Although there is no way to completely prevent hair loss, there are ways to keep your hair and scalp healthy, thereby lessening the risk of hair loss. A healthy diet and gentle care can help keep hair healthy. Excessive chemical treatments such as perms and hair coloring can result in thinning hair. Chemical treatments should be kept to a minimum and done by professional stylists.
Considerations
Anyone who experiences significant and/or sudden hair loss should see a doctor to determine whether a hormonal imbalance or another illness may be the underlying cause. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further hair loss.
About this Author
Darlene Zagata has been a professional writer since 2001, specializing in health and pet care. She is the author of two books and a contributing author to several anthologies. Zagata attended the Laurel Business Institute to study in the medical assistant/secretarial program. She earned her associate’s degree through the U.S. Career Institute.
