MayoClinic.com lists many reasons why hair may begin to fall out, including hereditary baldness, follicle inflammation, autoimmune diseases, emotional or physical shocks, extreme hairstyles, poor nutrition, certain medications and medical treatments, illness, hormonal changes, chemical hair treatments, scalp infections and mental illness. When the cause is apparent, take steps to eliminate the source of loss. If the cause is not known, medical evaluation may be necessary to find a solution.
Eat Healthy
A healthy diet rich in protein, iron, vitamins and minerals is essential for hair growth. Healthy, strong hair grows from the inside out. Without adequate nutrition, hair becomes weak and brittle. If you cannot eat enough nutritious foods to support strong hair growth, take a vitamin supplement.
Reduce Tension
Tight hairstyles such as braids, buns, updos and tease create tension, causing hair to break and fall out. Too much tension can even shock hair follicles into entering the resting phase prematurely, according to MayoClinic.com. Avoid hairstyles that place an undo amount of tension on the hair. If you can feel pulling, the style is too tight. This is also true for chemical processes. Listen to your scalp. Lighten up the tension any time you feel pain. Avoid pulling, twirling and tugging on your hair as well. Habitual tugging on the hair may break down the inner structures of the hair over time, resulting in breakage and hair loss.
Treat the Cause
You can control or reverse many types of hair loss by treating the underlying condition responsible for the loss. According to FamilyDoctor.org, hormonal supplements can restore hair loss caused by hormonal imbalance. Similarly, thyroid medications used to treat an underactive thyroid restores hair loss caused by the condition. Other types of symptomatic hair loss can be treated by treating the underlying condition as well.
Medication
Hair loss medications such as minoxidil and finasteride help reduce hair loss in those experiencing genetic hair loss. Minoxidil, a topical medication, is approved for men and women. Finasteride, an oral tablet, is available for men only. According to FamilyDoctor.org, it can take up to six months for these hair-loss medications to work. If you choose to use hair-loss medications, you must continue taking them or all progress will be lost.
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