- Hereditary factors, hormonal imbalances, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medications contribute to extreme hair loss.
- Olive oil and coconut oil can nourish hair and improve scalp health, reducing hair loss.
- Regular scalp massages can promote new hair growth by improving blood circulation.
- A nutrient-rich diet and adequate hydration are crucial for maintaining healthy hair and preventing hair loss.
- Seeking professional help from a dermatologist can provide specialized treatment options and lifestyle changes to combat hair loss.
Hair loss is a common problem that affects millions of men and women worldwide. Losing a few hair strands a day is typical; however, experiencing extreme hair loss can be alarming and may warrant a medical check-up. Here are some primary reasons for your extreme hair loss and ways to deal with it.
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Extreme Hair Loss
It’s estimated that about 80 million men and women in the US are affected by hereditary hair loss. This hair loss is caused by genetics and hormones, leading to thinning on specific areas of your scalp. There are various reasons for this. Here are some of them:
1. Genetics
Genetics plays a fundamental role in determining your hair quality and quantity. If your family has a history of hair loss, you will also experience it. Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male and female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss. It starts with a receding hairline in men, while in women, it broadens the part line.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hair loss. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone present in both men and women, is known to cause hair follicles to miniaturize, leading to hair thinning and, eventually, hair fall.
3. Stress
Stress can cause various health issues, including hair loss. When you experience intense stress, it can disrupt your body’s natural hair cycle, leading to a condition called telogen effluvium. It is characterized by excessive hair shedding over several months and can be a temporary phase lasting up to six months.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
The essential vitamins and minerals for healthy hair growth include vitamin D, iron, zinc, and biotin. A lack of these nutrients can lead to hair thinning and hair fall. An unhealthy diet or conditions that hamper nutrient absorption, such as celiac disease, can cause nutritional deficiencies.
5. Medications and Medical Treatments
Medications like chemotherapy, blood thinners, and antidepressants can cause hair loss. Medical treatments like radiation therapy, transplant surgeries, or scarring from burns or injuries can damage hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss.
Ways to Deal With Extreme Hair Loss
Thankfully, there are some ways you can deal with extreme hair loss. Here are five ways:
Olive Oil
Certain oils can have beneficial properties on your hair. There are various ways olive oil is good for the hair. First, it’s very moisturizing, which is excellent for dry hair. It also helps to soothe the scalp and eliminate dandruff. Additionally, it increases circulation in the scalp, promoting healthier growth of your existing hair.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another popular choice for treating and preventing hair loss. Its nutrients penetrate deep into your hair shaft and nourish it from within. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help to reduce scalp infections that may be causing your hair loss.
Scalp Massage
Massaging your scalp regularly with oil or a special comb can improve blood circulation and promote new follicle growth. This increases the nutrient supply to your cells, which leads to healthier and stronger hair.
Eating a Healthy Diet
Plenty of healthy, nutrient-dense food is essential for healthy hair growth. Adding foods rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids to your daily diet can help promote thicker and shinier locks. Additionally, make sure to drink plenty of water for overall health.
Seek Professional Help
If you’re concerned about your hair loss, seek professional help. A qualified dermatologist can assess the cause of your hair loss and recommend treatments such as topical medications, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgical procedures. They can also recommend lifestyle changes that may help reduce thinning hair.
In addition to these solutions for dealing with extreme hair loss, you can do other things to help improve your hair health. You can try using natural and organic products like shampoos, conditioners, and styling tools, as these tend to be less harsh on the scalp than traditional products.
Additionally, avoid chemical treatments such as coloring or perming that may damage your hair. Finally, remember that managing stress is vital for keeping your hair healthy. Regular exercise, yoga, and relaxation techniques can help improve mental health and reduce stress. With the right approach, you can get to the bottom of your extreme hair loss and start growing back a beautiful head of hair.