Hair loss and hair thinning can be a distressing experience, affecting both men and women of various ages. And while it is very common, there are a lot of unknowns. You may not know why are you experiencing the hair loss, you may not know what type of hair loss you have, and you may not know what you’re supposed to do next. But what you do know, is that you want it to stop, and to stop as quickly as possible. Understanding the different types of hair loss and their underlying causes is crucial for effective prevention and management. In this article, we will explore the 5 most common types of hair loss and delve into the reasons behind each.

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness) 

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. In men, it often results in a receding hairline and balding at the crown, while women typically experience thinning of the hair on the top of the scalp. The primary cause is genetic, with hormones called androgens playing a significant role. These hormones can shrink hair follicles, leading to finer and shorter hair until eventually, no new hair grows.

 

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2. Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss that occurs when the body undergoes a significant physiological or emotional stressor. This stressor pushes a large number of hair follicles into the resting phase (telogen phase), causing excessive shedding. Common triggers include childbirth, severe illness, surgery, or extreme stress. Fortunately, once the underlying stressor is addressed, most people recover from this type of hair loss.

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3. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other parts of the body. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve both genetic and environmental factors. Stress and certain viral infections have also been linked to triggering alopecia areata.

4. Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia occurs when excessive tension or pulling on the hair damages the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. This type of hair loss is often seen in individuals who frequently wear tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns. Over time, these hairstyles cause the hair to weaken and break, leading to gradual thinning. Avoiding tight hairstyles and giving hair regular breaks from tension can prevent traction alopecia.

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5. Anagen Effluvium

Anagen effluvium is a type of hair loss that affects the hair during its active growth phase (anagen phase). This rapid and extensive hair loss is usually caused by exposure to chemicals or radiation, such as chemotherapy treatments for cancer. These substances damage the hair matrix cells, leading to sudden and severe hair shedding. Once the exposure to damaging agents ceases, hair may regrow, although the texture and color might be different.

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In Conclusion

Understanding the different types of hair loss and their underlying causes is essential for effective prevention, early intervention, and proper treatment. If you are suffering from hair loss right now, I want you to know that stopping and recovering from hair loss takes times. So instead of rushing to quick fixes, or buying tons products. I want you to think about lifestyle changes you can make that can help you along your journey. And that’s what we’re here for.