Hair normally grows about half an inch a month, and the normal cycle of hair growth is about two to three years. At any one time, about 90 percent of the hairs on your scalp are growing, according to FamilyDoctor.org. The remaining hair is in a resting phase that lasts for three to four months before the hair falls out and new hair begins to grow. This growth pattern can be affected by a number of factors.
Medicines, Medical Treatments and Disease
If your body isn't healthy, it may affect your hair, too. Many people experience hair loss when taking medications or undergoing medical treatments. The Mayo Clinic reports that some medications for gout, arthritis, heart problems, high blood pressure and depression may cause more hair than normal to fall out. Birth control pills also may lead to hair loss in women. A change in medications may be all it takes to get that healthy head of hair back again. If you're undergoing medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, hair loss also may occur, but hair typically grows back again once treatment stops.
Hormones
Hormones can affect hair growth, especially in women. The Mayo Clinic notes that some women grow thicker, more luxuriant hair during pregnancy. However, it's common to lose more hair than usual about three months after that new baby is delivered. The hormonal changes that take place with birth control pills, menopause and thyroid problems also can affect hair growth. If there's an overproduction of testosterone, hair may thin on the top of the head. Correcting the imbalance may stop the loss of hair.
Heredity
Heredity plays a major part in a common hair growth problem in men---male-pattern baldness. This hair growth problem is called androgentic alopecia, according to the Mayo Clinic, and is characterized by a shortened hair growth cycle and thinner, weaker hair. A family history of androgentic alopecia increases your risk of balding and influences when the hair loss begins. Women may be victims of female-pattern baldness. FamilyDoctor.org reports heredity also appears to be a factor in hirsutism. This is a condition in which women develop dark, thick hair on the face, chest, abdomen and back.
Diet and Vitamins
NetWellness, a university-sponsored health website, reports that diet and nutrition also play a part in hair growth. Too much vitamin A in the diet can lead to hair loss, but not enough vitamin A also may cause hair to fall out. Deficiencies in vitamins C, B-6 and biotin may affect hair growth. If you lack enough of the minerals copper, iron and zinc, you also might experience hair loss. Too much of the mineral selenium may lead to hair changes and hair loss, too. NetWellness recommends a healthy diet and plenty of water each day to maintain healthy hair.
Grooming
If you want long, healthy hair, you need to treat it properly. HairBoutique.com reports many people have seen their hair turn brittle and break due to harsh hair care products, hot tool use and too many chemicals on the hair. The website recommends using a gentle touch.
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