If you notice a few extra hairs on your pillow, in the shower or in your comb it may be nothing to worry about. The average head loses approximately 100 of its 100,000 hairs each day. A hair normally grows a half an inch per month for four and a half years before it falls out and is replaced by a new one--usually within six months. There are a few reasons, however, why hair doesn't grow back.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia, more commonly known as male-pattern baldness, is the main culprit for thinning hair. According to Follicle.com, it accounts for 95 percent of all hair loss. Male-pattern baldness happens when large, active hair follicles change to smaller, less active ones that continue to shrink due to increased levels of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, in the hair follicle in those with a predisposition for the condition. There is currently no cure for androgenetic alopecia, but treatments exist including the topical solution minoxidil, the prescription tablet finesteride and hair transplants.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease with unknown causes that typically effects people who are in otherwise good health. According to the Mayo Clinic, an environmental trigger such as a virus may set it off in people who have a genetic predisposition for the condition. With alopecia areata, your hair will usually grow back, although you may lose and regrow it several times.
Cicatricial Alopecia
Cicatricial, or scarring, alopecia occurs when a skin condition such as lupus erythematosus or lichen planus causes inflammation that scars the hair follicle, preventing new hair from growing. The condition is permanent.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium occurs when there is an emotional or physical stress that causes the hair roots to prematurely enter a resting state. New hair will usually begin growing within a month or two. In addition to stress, telogen effluvium may be caused by a high fever, excessive weight loss or a nutritional deficiency.
Other Causes
Traction alopecia is caused when a certain hairstyle pulls your hair too tight. If the pulling is stopped before permanent damage to the root occurs, the hair will usually grow back normally.
Chemicals used for bleaching, dying, tinting or straightening cause hair to thin if they are used incorrectly. Excessive brushing can also damage the hair shaft, causing hair loss.
Poor nutrition, eating disorders and diets lacking protein or iron can cause thinning hair and hair loss.
Some people may experience hair loss due to certain medications used to treat depression, high blood pressure, arthritis or gout. Birth control pills may cause hair loss for some women. Diseases such as lupus, scalp infections and diabetes can cause hair loss as can chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, menopause and childbirth may cause temporary hair loss in some women.
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