The way our body reacts and responds is a reflection of our internal health. Frequent stomach problems are a sign of a problematic gut, for example. Similarly, some hair troubles are actually a signal of more significant internal health problems. This is why it may not always be smart to ignore hair loss and hair thinning. In fact, hair loss could be a sign of alopecia. Come, let us know what it is and what are the causes of alopecia.
What is alopecia?
The skin disorder alopecia, also known as alopecia areata, causes sudden hair loss, particularly on the scalp and in the areas around the eyebrows, eyelashes, and face. The US Department of Health and Human Services claims that the immune system attacking the hair follicles causes this illness to manifest as hair loss. Hair loss in small patches is a common complaint among those with this ailment, to the point where it can become extreme.
An expert’s take on alopecia
Health Shots got in touch with Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist, and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, to find the causes of alopecia.
Dr Kapoor says, “Alopecia is common with age, but you can definitely treat it and slow down its progression. This is not the same as hair loss. This occurs when the hair starts to lose volume and thickness, and it appears like there are fewer hairs on your head and you might be balding.”
She adds, “Of course, once you ask around for it, you will hear many causes and home treatments, but not all of them are true. If you are healthy and still noticing less hair growth, hair thinning, and hair fall, then it is time to find out the real cause of alopecia.”
The 7 most common factors that might be causing your hair to fall out include:
1. Undue stress
When we are stressed, our nervous system and digestive system are affected, and it leads to many imbalances in the body. Our hair and scalp do not get the nutrition they need, and slowly the hair starts to grow thinner and fewer. Stress can be because of work, overthinking, surgery, traumatic injury, personal life, etc.
2. The food that you eat
Hair needs a lot of nutrition to stay healthy. They need a daily dose of vitamins, zinc, biotin, iron, zinc, fatty acids, selenium, and other proteins, and if you are not eating a balanced diet, then the hair loss will only accelerate.
3. Hereditary
Alopecia, or diseases that cause extreme hair loss, may be genetic, but this has not been scientifically proven. Therefore, it cannot be a reason in isolation. There may also be other factors at play.
4. Hair style and hair treatments
Using tight hairstyles, repeating the same hairstyle every day, hot hair treatment, styling and hair colouring, perms, and use of harsh hair products can damage the hair follicles and strands and cause hair to grow thinner and weaker.
Also, read: 3 hair experts share 5 golden rules to get long and voluminous hair
5. Change in hormones
Hormonal levels fluctuate because of many things, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, even puberty can affect the capacity of hair follicles and cause the hair to thin out and appear as if you are balding.
6. Ageing
Hair loss with ageing is the most common cause of baldness. There are some who choose to ignore it completely, while others choose to cover it with hairstyles and makeup. And still there are some who choose to treat it. So, consult with your doctor if the cause behind hair loss is alopecia.
7. Dandruff and other skin infections
A variety of disorders and infections can cause hair loss. Therefore, it is never a good idea to ignore scalp infections. The white, flaky bits in your hair can block the follicles and cause hair thinning and eventually even hair loss. By treating the underlying infection, hair growth can be restored and further hair loss can be avoided.
Takeaway
Remember, the correct diagnosis is the first step to correct treatment. The right treatment can help you manage hair thinning, improve hair thickness and strength. There are many treatments that can bring back your crowning glory.