Hair loss is something many people face but few understand until it begins to affect their own reflection in the mirror. Whether it starts with a thinning crown, a receding hairline, or increased shedding in the shower, hair loss can be emotionally and physically distressing. But before you panic or turn to the first miracle cure you find online, let’s look at the science behind why hair loss happens — and what you can do about it.
Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle
To grasp why hair falls out, it helps to understand how hair normally grows. Hair goes through a natural cycle that includes three phases:
- Anagen (growth phase)
- Catagen (transitional phase)
- Telogen (resting/shedding phase)
At any given moment, about 85–90% of your hair is actively growing. The rest is either in transition or preparing to shed. On average, we lose 50–100 hairs a day — completely normal. However, when this balance is disrupted, hair loss becomes more noticeable.
Why Hair Loss Happens
There are many reasons why this disruption can occur. The most common cause is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. It’s hereditary and influenced by hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which shrinks hair follicles over time.
Other contributors include:
- Stress: High cortisol levels can push hair prematurely into the shedding phase.
- Medical conditions: Thyroid imbalances, iron deficiency, autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata.
- Medications: Chemotherapy, blood thinners, and some antidepressants can lead to temporary loss.
- Poor nutrition: Deficiencies in vitamins like B12, D, and zinc can impact hair strength and growth.
What You Can Do
Hair loss doesn’t always have to be permanent, especially when addressed early. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Get a medical evaluation. Ruling out underlying health issues is the first step.
- Adopt healthy hair habits. Gentle styling, avoiding excessive heat, and a balanced diet all support healthy growth.
- Explore proven treatments. Options like minoxidil, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), and even hair transplants can deliver impressive results when supervised by professionals.
- Don’t wait too long. The earlier you address thinning, the better the chances of preserving your natural hair.
Consider a Professional Consultation
Hair loss is personal, and so is the solution. If you’re starting to notice thinning or shedding that doesn’t seem normal, it’s worth speaking to an expert. Clinics like Westminster Medical Group® — a leading hair transplant London provider specialize in scientifically backed hair restoration treatments, from advanced FUE hair transplants to non-surgical solutions like PRP and scalp micropigmentation.
Your hair journey doesn’t have to be one of frustration or guesswork. Understanding the science is the first step — taking action is the next.
