10 Reasons that Might Explain Your Hair Loss

Is one of these factors the root of your hair loss? If you notice thinning hair that keeps falling out, make an appointment with your doctor.
10 Reasons that Might Explain Your Hair Loss
Karla Henríquez

Reviewed and approved by the doctor Karla Henríquez.

Last update: 15 December, 2022

In this process, it’s normal to lose up to 100 stands of hair a day. What’s not normal, however, is excessive hair loss that significantly reduces hair volume.

Those who suffer from hair loss can really notice the effects when brushing, combing or towel drying their hair, as well as in other situations when handeling hair.

When hair loss becomes serious, noticeable bald spots can begin to form. In addition to being an aesthetic problem, hair loss can affect self esteem.

Currently, there are many cosmetic treatments that can reverse the situation. However, knowing the cause of the hair loss is crucial for controlling it effectively.

Reasons why your hair might be falling out

Excessive hair loss occurs when hair follicles experience some kind of change. There may be ot her factors in play as well.

1. Prolonged exposure to stress

excessive hair loss

Prolonged exposure to stress is one of the possible causes for hair loss. The hair loss occurs as a result of an increased production of cortisol, which is a hormone that negatively affects hair’s health.

Visit this article: Discover 4 Breathing Techniques to Fight Stress

2. Taking certain medications

There are many medications out there that include excessive hair loss as one of their symptoms.

Taking these medications for a long period of time weakens hair follicles and thins out hair:

  • Chemotherapy medication
  • Blood-pressure medication
  • Medication for Parkinson’s and cardiovascular problems

3. Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency

A big reason for hair loss is the anemia that results from iron deficiency.

Low iron levels in the the bloodstream doesn’t allow capillary cells to get the oxygen that they need, which leads to weaker strands.

4. Excessive oil

For hair that’s strong and healthy, its natural oils have to be balanced.

If sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can lead to a variety of problems.

The sebum build-up in hair follicles blocks their oxygen and nutrient flow. In addition, it also leads to dandruff.

5. Scalp infections

Scalp infections

The scalp is one of the body’s most delicate areas of skin. If we don’t take care for it properly, you have higher risks of suffering from bacterial or fungal infections.

These conditions don’t just hurt hair follicles, but they also lead to allergies and other symptoms.

6. Consuming alcohol and tobacco

The toxins in alcohol and cigarettes lead lead to a reduce blood supply for hair follicles.

Using these products frequently harms cells progressively and increases the risk of excessive hair loss.

7. Certain illnesses
Certain illnesses

There are many chronic illnesses that imply hair loss. Whether it results from a weakened immune system or from complications in absorbing nutrients, such illnesses can weaken your hair.

The most common cases are:

8. Androgenic alopecia

Your hair loss might also originate from hereditary reasons.

In cases of androgenic alopecia, hair follicles are thinner due to higher levels of masculine hormones and genetic predisposition.

Want to know more? Read: Home Treatments for Hair Loss

9. Alopecia areata

Alopecia areata

There isn’t an exact cause that can explain alopecia areata. However, it’s common in cases where patients have dealt with some kind of autoimmune disease.

With this disorder, patients lose hair in a specific area in their body, almost always in small, round patches.

Alopecia areata affects both men and women of all ages, but it’s more common in children and  adolescents.

10. Hormonal changes

Hair loss that results from hormonal changes occurs more frequently in women. It often occurs after a pregnancy or before and after menopause.

It’s a temporary form of hair loss that normally stops naturally when hormonal activity normalizes. Hair loss can also affect birth-control users or hormonal therapy patients.

Is one of these factors the root of your hair loss? If you notice thinning hair that keeps falling out, make an appointment with your doctor.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.