Hair Loss

What is Hair Loss?

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, known as alopecia, can be either partial or complete and may result from various external or internal factors. Typically, we naturally shed approximately 100 hairs a day. However, if you experience a more significant loss (around 120-150 hairs or more daily), or notice specific areas of your scalp thinning, it is crucial to seek advice from a trichologist without delay.

Hair loss can impact any part of the body, including the scalp. The most common form of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as patterned hair loss, which typically progresses gradually over time. Hair loss can affect individuals of all ages, with androgenetic alopecia even manifesting as early as in one’s twenties or thirties. Looking for an effective hair loss treatment? Book an appointment with La Derma Skin Clinic (Best Dermatologist in Kolkata) at affordable rates.

Hair Loss Types

What are the various types of hair loss?

Hair loss can manifest in both enduring and fleeting ways. The principal categories of hair loss encompass:

Androgenic alopecia: This form of hereditary hair loss is prevalent in both men and women, with male pattern baldness being common among men. Women can also experience hair thinning in this pattern.

Alopecia areata: This autoimmune condition leads to hair loss on the scalp and the body.

Telogen effluvium: This type of hair loss involves the rapid shedding of hair within a brief period. It typically occurs a few months following physical or emotional stressors, as well as sudden hormonal shifts.

Anagen effluvium: A swift loss of hair, often caused by specific medical treatments like chemotherapy.

Hair Loss Causes

What causes hair loss?

Hair loss can stem from a variety of factors. The primary contributors encompass:

• Genetic predisposition inherited from parents.
• Scalp fungal infections.
• Hairstyles that exert strong tension on hair (e.g., braids, hair extensions, or tightly pulled ponytails).
• Haircare practices that induce damage through treatments like perms and bleaching.
• Hormonal fluctuations such as those occurring during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause.
• Undergoing medical procedures like chemotherapy or using specific medications.
• Inadequate nutrition, particularly insufficient intake of iron and protein.
• Coping with stress-inducing occurrences like surgery or the loss of a loved one.
• Presence of thyroid disorders.

Hair Loss Symptoms

What are the symptoms of hair loss?

Hair loss manifests uniquely among individuals, contingent on the underlying cause and the specific type of hair loss. The prevalent signs encompass:

• A receding hairline, which is a characteristic feature of male pattern baldness.
• Gradual thinning of hair across the entirety of the scalp, as typically seen in female pattern hair loss.
• Localized patches of hair become sparse on the scalp.
• Diminished hair presence on both the scalp and the body.