Causes of hair loss commonly include the following:
Alopecia Areata
This is a non-scaring condition, which presents as smooth patches of hair loss. The condition affects both men and women equally, with 60% of sufferers experiencing initial onset before the age of 20 . Alopecia Areata is caused by a malfunction of the immune system (auto-immune), where healthy tissue (in this case hair follicles) are mistakenly attacked by the cells of the immune system, causing inflammation and subsequent loss of hair. Inflammation only affects the base of the hair follicle and does not interfere with stem cell production, so the potential for hair growth remains.
CCCA Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia
This group of hair loss conditions, unfortunately, involves the permanent loss of hair over a specific area of the scalp. Some of these conditions can also affect the eyebrows, eyelashes, and other hair-bearing areas of the body.
Androgenetic Alopecia
More commonly known as Female/Male Patterned Hair Loss. Androgenetic alopecia is a genetically predisposed condition (from one or both parents) involving androgens (male hormones). The affected hair follicles become progressively thinner (miniaturized) and grow for a shorter length of time with each passing cycle. In women, the mechanisms involved are more complex than the male form, and the condition is often exacerbated by other underlying factors.
Telogen Effluvium
This is a condition of the hair cycle, associated with accelerated shedding of hair beyond what would otherwise be considered normal. Some factors can cause Anagen hairs to prematurely enter the Telogen phase, leading to an increase of hair leaving the scalp. These factors can include low iron/iron deficiency, low vitamin B12, poor/insufficient diets, crash dieting, medication, illness (particularly with high fever), significant emotional stressors, thyroid issues, hormonal imbalance (post pregnancy/menopause), and many other issues. Telogen effluvium can be resolved in the vast majority of cases. Identifying the cause is key to gaining the correct treatment, so an in-depth consultation and accurate diagnosis is essential.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss that occurs when hair is subjected to constant tension or pulling over a prolonged period. This condition is often associated with certain hairstyles that place strain on the hair follicles, such as tight ponytails, braids, cornrows, or hair extensions. Over time, the continuous pulling can lead to inflammation and damage to the hair follicles, causing hair to thin or fall out in the affected areas. Traction alopecia commonly affects areas along the hairline and at the back of the head, where the tension is most pronounced. If caught early and the damaging hairstyles are discontinued, hair may regrow. However, if the traction continues for extended periods, it can lead to permanent hair loss.