There are many
ideas on why hair loss occurs and it would seem that everyone you
talk to has a reason for why it may be happening to you. There are
of course only a few scientific proven reasons for hair loss and many
of the other reasons are just merely old wives' tales. The five most
common reasons for hair loss are:
1. DHT
The major cause of
hair loss is DHT. DHT is a hormone. DHT is directly related
to and affected by the level of testosterone in the bloodstream. DHT
blocks the growth of hair in men and is the cause of most baldness.
And even though this is a male hormone, women also have a small
amount that runs through their blood, some higher than others. When a
female inherits hair follicles that are supersensitive to DHT, they
start to lose hair just like men do. Men generally have hair loss
concentrated in a specific pattern from the front through to the
crown, while women have an overall thinning of the hair throughout
the scalp. About half of all people have inherited hair loss by about
50 years of age.
2. Genetics
Although not the
primary cause of male-pattern hair loss, genetics does have a
significant role in male-pattern hair loss. It is unclear whether
having an affected mother or an affected father predisposes
descendants to greater risks. When hair loss is related to hormones
(androgens) and genetics, it is known as Androgenetic Alopecia, or
more commonly just balding. Androgenetic Alopecia is an extremely
common disorder.
3. Poor Blood
Circulation
Hair loss can be
attributed to overall poor blood circulation. Studies have shown that
the blood flow to the scalp of men and women suffering from hair loss
was significantly lower than those not experiencing hair loss.
4.
Environmental Pollutants.
Further studies
have indicated that pollutants in the atmosphere have contributed to
the production of "environmental hormones" which can also
contribute to hair loss.
SUMMARY: As you can see there are many factors that can cause hair loss in both men and women but they all have one underlying theme in common, hair follicles that are affected by hormonal "clogging" agents and poor blood and nutrient circulation are less likely to experience a healthy growth cycle.
