Everyone who suffers from excessive hair fall wants to stop hair loss. However, it may not be as easy as it seems. In most cases of hair loss, there is an internal problem. Therefore, it is important to learn about hair growth and loss cycle, causes of hair fall and the most recommendable steps to stop hair loss altogether.
The Hair Growth And Loss Cycle
There is a continuous growth and fall cycle of the hair which takes about 2-6 years. Every month, hair grows for about a centimeter in this cycle. There are resting and growing hairs on the scalp of people all the time. About 90% of the hair, at any time, is growing. The rest 10% of hair, usually, has completed the growth cycle and are resting. Every two to three months, the resting hair starts to fall and new hair begins to grow in its places. Therefore, it is obvious to lose some hairs as a part of this cycle. However, when the hair fall is excessive it needs immediate medical attention to prevent severe outcome, such as complete baldness.
The Major Reasons For Excessive Hair Fall
Many causes may be attributed for excessive hair fall. The most common reason for hair loss is hormonal imbalance. If the thyroid gland is overactive or underactive, the hairs may fall out as a consequence. Male and female hormones, known as androgen and estrogen respectively also play an important role in the hair growth and fall cycle. An imbalance in the hormones may result in excessive hair fall.
Hair may also fall out about three to four months after a major surgery or illness. This hair fall, usually, is temporary and the normal process is retained once the stress due to illness is over.
Medicines may also contribute to hair loss. It is found that blood thinners (also called anticoagulants), medicines used in chemotherapy to treat cancer, medicines used for gout, vitamin A (if too much is taken), birth control pills and antidepressants may result in excessive hair loss.
Women may also suffer from hair loss during pregnancy due to hormonal effects. In children hair loss may occur due to fungal infections. Moreover, an underlying disease, such as diabetes and lupus may also lead to excessive hair fall.
Most Important Steps To Stop Hair Loss
The preliminary thing to understand is that hair loss may also occur due to improper care of hair. If the individuals wear pigtails or cornrows or use a tight band for their hair, a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia may occur. Moreover, scarring alopecia may occur if scarring of the scalp takes place. Additionally, use of hot hair oils or perms may also contribute to excessive hair loss apart from the above mentioned reasons.
To stop hair loss, the reasons responsible for hair loss should be controlled. For example, if hair loss occurs due to use of medicines, a doctor may be consulted to replace or stop the medicine. Tight hair bands should also be avoided. Moreover, it should be understood well that hair loss is treatable if the proper reason for it is diagnosed.