Of men over the age of 30, 2/3 suffer some degree of baldness, says the American Hair Loss Association, while hair loss and breakage among women is also common and can damage self-esteem. Hair loss or breakage is caused by a number of factors, from your hormones to the hair products you choose. Recognizing the source of your hair loss can help you and your dermatologist find an effective treatment.
Pattern Baldness
Pattern baldness, also called androgenetic alopecia, occurs in men and women when hair thins and becomes less sturdy during each growth cycle. Over time, hair falls out more easily. Your risk for pattern baldness increases if you have a family history of the condition.
Hair Treatments
Your hair breaks or becomes damaged when you overuse dyes, tints, bleaches or hair-straightening products. Brushing your hair too often may also causes breakage, as can having your hair styled excessively, says MayoClinic.com.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes sufferers to lose their hair in spots. While most people with the disease are otherwise healthy, some have a thyroid disease or other autoimmune disorders. The cause of alopecia areata is unknown, although scientists believe genetic history plays a role. Triggers can also include the environment or a virus.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a change in your normal hair cycle that causes hair roots to temporarily stagnate. The lack of activity leads to hair loss, although your hair grows back in a few months once the roots become active. The cause of telogen effluvium may be emotional distress after a personal tragedy, or physiological stress, including surgery, high fever or excessive weight loss.
Hormones
Pregnancy, the beginning of menopause, childbirth or abnormal thyroid activity all trigger hormone changes that can cause temporary hair loss. In most cases, hair grows back within about three months.
Scalp Infections
When left untreated, ringworm and other scalp infections cause hair loss. FamilyDoctor.org reports that topical or oral antifungal medicines will usually resolve the problem, allowing new hair growth to begin.
Medications and Treatments
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy cause baldness, although hair usually grows back once the treatment ends. Birth control pills may also trigger hair loss, as well as drugs used to treat high blood pressure, heart problems, arthritis and depression.
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