Thinning Hair: Identifying Signs, Pinpointing Causes, and Discovering Solutions
Seeing your hair falling off all over your floor and pillowcases is a dreadful sight.
Almost half of women and over 80% of men lose a significant amount of hair throughout their lifetimes.
But have you wondered what could be causing your hair to fall?
And how to identify and stop it?
If yes, then look no further.
This article discusses the various signs of thinning hair, the probable causes, and possible treatment options to avoid the dreadful sight.
What does thinning hair look like
There are multiple signs of hair thinning which can help identify the condition at an early stage.
This not only helps in preventing the condition from worsening but also in effectively treating the same.
Some such signs are discussed below.
Hair feeling lighter
One of the easiest ways to spot hair thinning is to observe how your hair feels daily.
When you pay attention to how your hair feels when you run your fingers through them, brush them, or get out of the shower, you can tell if it is feeling thinner.
Change in your hairline
You might notice a broader forehead since a receding hairline is a fairly common sign of hair thinning and hair loss.
Some people might also notice their hair receding from the temples or the crown area.
These changes in the hairline could be early signs of hair thinning.
You can notice more of your scalp
It might be possible not to observe bald patches, but you may notice your scalp showing when you tie or style them a certain way.
You may also notice that your hair part is wider than it used to be.
More than usual hair fall while showering or brushing
It is common knowledge that losing up to a hundred strands each day is absolutely normal.
But if you notice an unusually large amount of hair falling out on a regular basis, this could be a sign of hair thinning.
Bald patches
The most obvious sign of hair thinning is when you notice bald patches on your head.
These could form in any part of your head.
Also, the size of your bald patches determines the stage of Pattern Baldness you are at.
What causes thinning hair
Following are some reasons you might be experiencing hair thinning or loss.
Genetics
One of the most common causes of hair loss and thinning is your genes known as Androgenetic Alopecia.
Also known as pattern baldness, it affects both men and women.
Stress
Stress is a major cause of hair thinning and can potentially cause hair loss.
Chronic stress increases the levels of a hormone called cortisol, an excess of which can trigger a condition called Telogen effluvium.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal imbalance in the body also contributes to hair thinning.
This imbalance could be caused by pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid imbalances, etc.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions like Alopecia Areata, Lupus, scalp infections, and PCOS might cause excessive hair loss.
Trichotillomania is a mental disorder that involves a person pulling their own hair out, which can ultimately lead to hair thinning.
Nutrient deficiency
Nutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, etc., are essential for healthy hair growth.
A deficiency of these nutrients in the body can lead to thinning hair.
Medications
Certain medications can induce thinning hair as a side effect.
These include medications such as chemotherapy drugs, beta-blockers, blood thinners, etc.
Others
Apart from these, some other factors might also lead to hair thinning.
These include:
- Overusing heat styling tools
- Chemically treating the hair
- Tight hairstyles like braids or cornrows
- Less active hair follicles due to aging
- Environmental factors like pollution, UV rays,
Treatment options for hair thinning
The treatment options for thinning hair depend highly on the underlying reason for the thinning.
Moving further in this article, we will discuss some such options.
Medications and topical treatments
In some cases, people might need oral or topical medications to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth.
The topical formulations which contain Minoxidil are prescribed for hair loss and can be used by both men and women.
It is FDA-approved and has shown significant improvement in hair growth for people with Androgenetic Alopecia.
Another medication that is popular for its effectiveness in treating hair loss is Finasteride.
It comes in the form of pills but is prescribed primarily for men with Androgenetic Alopecia.
Hence, only consume them with the approval of your healthcare provider.
Surgical/ Non-surgical options
Another option for patients who have thinning hair includes surgical and non-surgical options.
Surgical options include procedures like hair transplantation and scalp reduction.
Non-surgical options to treat hair thinning include PRP therapy, Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT), Microneedling, etc.
Lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and stress-free life will also reduce hair thinning.
You can also include hair growth supplements in your everyday routine to aid hair growth.
Additionally, regular scalp massage, gentle hair care products, and avoiding heat as much as possible will help.
Cosmetic options
Hair wigs and extensions are an easy way to cover thinning hair.
Hair fibers are another cosmetic product that can be sprinkled over areas with visible thinning. They cling to the existing hair and give an illusion of a fuller scalp.
Home remedies
Regular hair massages using carrier oils like coconut, castor, and jojoba oil can also help to stimulate hair growth.
You can even mix a few drops of essential oils such as rosemary, peppermint, or tea tree essential to make it more effective.
Takeaway
Thinning hair is a common problem that can be affected and triggered by multiple factors, including genetics, stress, medical conditions, or certain medications.
But fortunately, once this reason is identified and treated, hair thinning can be controlled, and hair growth be promoted.
There are several topical and oral medications available that promote new hair growth and reduce hair loss.
Surgical and non-surgical methods can also be suggested by your healthcare provider, like hair transplantation and PRP therapy.
But you can also try to induce hair growth naturally by making some lifestyle changes, including managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and improving the general hair care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can thinning hair grow back?
Thinning hair can be regrown by treating the underlying condition that is causing the problem. However, in some conditions, regrowing the hair might not be possible. It is suggested to consult a healthcare professional to get an accurate diagnosis and formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
How do I stop my hair from thinning?
It's essential to identify the underlying cause of hair loss to find the appropriate treatment. It may include using topical or oral medication, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, avoiding tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling, and using gentle hair care products. Consult a doctor for the best advice.
What is the main cause of hair thinning?
The main cause of hair thinning in both men and women is often genetics, particularly Androgenetic Alopecia, which causes hair follicles to shrink over time, resulting in thinner hair. Other common causes of hair thinning include hormonal imbalances, certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.
What is the best vitamin for thinning hair?
Vitamins B, C, D, and E are the most important vitamins for hair thinning. Sufficient amounts of these vitamins are essential to support healthy hair growth. You can consume them via food items or as supplements, but always discuss them with your doctor before starting a new regimen.
Can you fix thinning hair naturally?
Several natural remedies may help improve the appearance of thinning hair, including scalp massage, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and avoiding chemicals on the hair. However, these remedies may not be effective for everyone, and consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
