What Causes Hair Loss

Hair loss, or alopecia, can happen for various reasons and in different forms. Let’s explore the most common types:

Hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), also known as pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss – affecting 80% of men and 40% of women over 70. Men often notice thinning at the crown and hairline, while women often experience diffuse thinning especially along their parting. 

For men, the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a leading role in hereditary hair loss. Sensitive hair follicles respond to DHT by shortening their growth cycles, causing earlier hair shedding. Over time, the hair regrows thinner and eventually becomes fine fuzz. 

In women, hormonal changes beyond DHT can contribute to female pattern hair loss (FPHL). For instance, oestrogen, which supports healthy hair growth, decreases with age, leading to a higher risk of hair thinning over time. 

Spot baldness (alopecia areata) is the second most common type of hair loss. It causes distinctive round or oval patches on the scalp, which often stay isolated but can sometimes grow and merge. Affecting both men and women, this condition is thought to result from an autoimmune response where the body’s white blood cells mistakenly attack hair follicles. This triggers inflammation and leads to localised hair loss.

Diffuse thinning (telogen effluvium) happens when hair across the entire scalp becomes noticeably thinner. This temporary form of hair loss can affect both women and men, and is often triggered by factors such as stress, poor nutrition, hormonal changes, or thyroid disorders. The good news is that diffuse hair loss can usually be treated successfully. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause, hair regrowth is often possible. 

Postpartum hair loss is a common example of diffuse thinning, experienced by many women in the months following childbirth. During pregnancy, elevated oestrogen levels prolong the hair growth phase, resulting in thicker, fuller hair. After birth, as hormone levels return to normal, a larger number of hairs enter the shedding phase at once, often peaking around 3 to 6 months postpartum. Although this sudden shedding can be distressing, it is usually temporary, with hair growth returning to normal within a year.

Certain medications can also contribute to hair loss. These include blood thinners, some blood pressure medications (like beta-blockers), and cholesterol-lowering treatments.

If you’re concerned about noticeable hair loss, seeing a doctor is a good first step. Your GP can evaluate your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist for scalp health or an endocrinologist for hormonal imbalances, depending on the underlying issue. To pinpoint the cause of hair loss diagnostic methods may include reviewing your medical history, blood tests, gentle pull tests to assess hair strength, hair analysis, or a scalp examination.

The right treatment for hair loss depends on its root cause. In many cases, hair loss is temporary or part of the natural ageing process, meaning treatment may not always be necessary. When linked to an illness, addressing the condition itself takes priority. If a nutrient deficiency is suspected, a blood test can confirm it, and targeted supplementation may help restore balance. 

For hereditary hair loss, treatment isn’t medically required, but some may choose to explore options for confidence and self-image. Options range from medications and hair transplants to hairpieces or creative styling techniques.

In cases of alopecia areata, treatments often include specially formulated creams or lotions containing glucocorticoids. Results can vary, with fewer than half of cases seeing regrowth in treated areas. Other options include immune-modulating therapies such as systemic corticosteroid treatments, local immunotherapy, or light-based approaches like photochemical therapy.  

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can play a key role in reducing the risk of certain types of hair loss. This is especially true when hair loss is linked to physical damage, like excessive brushing or tight hairstyles, or to nutritional imbalances. 

Since 1921, Weleda has been a pioneer in natural hair care. Our hair tonic, enriched with organic rosemary, was among our first creations. Made with a plant-based, natural formula that is free from silicones and sulphates – nurturing healthy hair with natural vitality and shine.