Hair fall affects many men and women. Losing 50-100 hairs a day is normal, but more than that may be due to genetics, poor nutrition, or a health condition. Whether you want hair fall treatment, the main reasons for hair fall, or practical hair fall solutions, you will find clear and simple answers below.
This is a genetic reason in both men and women, where they inherit a gene from their parents that causes hair loss. Internationally, it is one of the most common reasons for hair loss and is known as male pattern hair loss & female pattern hair loss.
Applying harsh chemicals to hair can damage the hair roots, so it is important to check your daily using hair products or also avoid putting unnecessary cheap hair colours.
Hormonal imbalances associated with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or thyroid disorders may contribute to hair loss in some women.
Dandruff or an infected scalp can weaken the hair roots or increase hair fall.
Loss of hair also be a side effect of some medicines. If you experience extreme hair fall while taking your medication, please consult a doctor before stopping the prescribed medicines.
If your does not have balanced levels of biotin, iron, protein, or zinc, it can affect hair shedding.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, and at too high a level, usually from supplements may cause hair loss.
Low vitamin B12 may contribute to hair loss.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid and it is also an antioxidant. It helps the body absorb iron, so low levels may indirectly affect hair.
Vitamin D helps hair follicles move through their normal growth cycle. A deficiency may contribute to increased shedding, but there is no clear proof that low vitamin D alone causes hair fall.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects scalp cells from damage. Its role in hair fall is weaker than that of iron or vitamin D.
NOTE: Take supplements only after a blood test. Use a Med Cab booking platform to arrange online pathology tests at an affordable cost.
In monsoon season, many people may notice more hair fall compared to other seasons. The reason for hair loss in this situation is particularly linked to high humidity, sweating, oily scalp, damp hair, and dandruff.
The right treatment depends on the cause, so first find out why you are losing hair. A dermatologist may examine your scalp and suggest blood tests for iron, thyroid, vitamin D, and B12. Hair loss after illness, childbirth, or stress often settles on its own within a few months.
If treatment is needed, these are the common options:
Correct the root cause of hair loss by correcting nutrient deficiencies, hormone-related problems, or scalp infections.
Minoxidil is a non-prescription medicine. It is a scalp solution for early thinning in men and women for early thinning. Results may take 6-12 months. Ask a doctor first for personalised treatment.
Procedures like hair transplant or low-level laser therapy can be used to treat the hair fall problem. Patience is very important because most treatments need months, and no single one works for everyone.
Finasteride is prescribed for male pattern baldness and slows hair loss. It is not safe for women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Spironolactone may help some women with pattern hair loss, but it is also unsafe in pregnancy.
Iron, zinc, or biotin supplements help only when a test shows a deficiency. Avoid self-medicating, because side effects are possible.
Medicines treat the problem, but daily habits can reduce hair fall and protect the hair you have. A healthy hair schedule can help you manage your hair fall and stop it from coming back.
1- Balanced Diet: Include protein (eggs, dal, paneer), leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. Avoid crash diets.
2- Manage stress and sleep: Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep. Walking, yoga, or breathing exercises help reduce stress.
3- Be gentle with hair: Use a wide-tooth comb and don’t brush wet hair tightly.
4- Limit heat and chemicals: Go easy on straighteners, bleach, and colour.
5- Keep the scalp clean: Wash hair 2-3 times a week with a mild shampoo and treat dandruff early.
Avoid tight ponytails, braids, and buns, which pull on the roots. Get iron, thyroid, and vitamin D levels checked, since these are common causes. Hormonal changes after pregnancy or during menopause can also increase shedding, so talk to a doctor if it continues.
Sudden or excessive hair fall in women can follow childbirth, illness, stress, anaemia, or thyroid problems, so get it checked if it continues.
No shampoo cures hair fall. Choose a mild shampoo for your scalp type, and use an anti-dandruff shampoo (such as ketoconazole) only if you have dandruff.
Consult a dermatologist if hair fall is heavy, sudden, or patchy, or if it does not improve in 2-3 months. Sudden or excessive hair fall in women can be a sign of an underlying health problem. People can use Med Cab video consultation service for online medical advice from experienced doctors. Dial 1800-890-8208 to learn more about our services.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. Consult a doctor before taking any medicine.
1- AAD (American Academy of Dermatology): https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/18-causes
2- NLM (National Library of Medicine): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6380979/#Sec7
3- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926
