Causes of Hair Loss

What are some of the reasons why we lose our hair?

Genetics is likely the most common reason for hair loss. However there are many reasons why some of us lose our hair and the effects can be compounded when multiple factors are at play. You should consult your doctor to help determine the exact cause or causes for your hair loss. Below are some of the causes to consider.

Androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is a frequent cause of hair loss in both men and women. This form of hair loss affects an estimated 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States. Androgenetic alopecia can start as early as a person’s teens and risk increases with age; more than 50 percent of men over age 50 have some degree of hair loss. In women, hair loss is most likely after menopause.

In men, this condition is also known as male-pattern baldness. Hair is lost in a well-defined pattern, beginning above both temples. Over time, the hairline recedes to form a characteristic “M” shape. Hair also thins at the crown (near the top of the head), often progressing to partial or complete baldness.

The pattern of hair loss in women differs from male-pattern baldness. In women, the hair becomes thinner all over the head, and the hairline does not recede. Androgenetic alopecia in women rarely leads to total baldness.

Androgenetic alopecia in men has been associated with several other medical conditions including coronary heart disease and enlargement of the prostate. Additionally, prostate cancer, disorders of insulin resistance (such as diabetes and obesity), and high blood pressure (hypertension) have been related to androgenetic alopecia. In women, this form of hair loss is associated with an increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is characterized by a hormonal imbalance that can lead to irregular menstruation, acne, excess hair elsewhere on the body (hirsutism), and weight gain.

Source: Genetics Home Reference, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Medical Conditions and Diseases

Autoimmune Diseases

Alopecia areata is the medical term for an autoimmune disease when the immune system attacks the hair follicles (the structures from which hair grows). It usually does not threaten an individual’s health, but it can have a big impact on the way you look. Symptoms include patchy hair loss on the scalp, face or other areas of the body.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (also called lupus or SLE) is a disease that can damage the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs and other parts of the body. One of its symptoms is hair loss.

Source: Office on Women’s Health (OWH)

Cancer Treatment

Hair loss is a side effect of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Source: National Cancer Institute (NCI)