Hair loss cause / causes of hair loss

Hair loss and rejuvenation is a natural process, but as we age our hair tends to thin out in a process known as male (or female) pattern baldness. Unfortunately this is a hereditary condition, related to hormonal imbalance, and there's little that can be done about it. There are, however, factors which contribute to the process and by being aware of them it is possible to slow the process down.

The biological process discussed elsewhere on this site explains how the hormone DHT contributes to male patterned baldness. DHT is manufactured from testosterone and becomes a problem when excessive quantities of testosterone exist in the body. Causes of this imbalance include; hormonal changes from puberty onwards, excessive caffeine intake, excessive masturbation and increased stress. A tightening of the skin over the scalp in adult years is also believed to contribute by restricting the blood supply to hair follicles. Hair loss can also be caused by chronic illness, stress, medications and improper hair care.

There are several reasons why people loss their hair, depending on which form of hair loss occurs.

Anagen effluvium is the permanent loss of hair due to the destruction or hindering of hair follicles. Causes of this include; hormonal changes, internally administered medications (such as chemotherapy agents), poor shampoos and excessive brushing.

Telogen effluvium is a temporary loss of hair due to transitory damage to the follicles.

There are a number of other contributing factors causing hair loss, which, if treated, are reversible: