Hair is not only considered an aesthetic but also a health indicator. However, many people, especially in recent years, have been applying to dermatologists with complaints of increased hair loss. So what could be the underlying causes of this loss? Which conditions are normal, which should be investigated? And most importantly, which tests should be performed for a correct diagnosis?
In this article, we have discussed all the details about hair loss in a friendly but scientific language.
Contents
What is Hair Loss and When is it Normal?
It is normal for everyone to experience hair loss. Losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is part of the natural hair cycle. Hair has a growth (anagen), transition (catagen) and shedding (telogen) phase. In this cycle, the shed hair is replaced by new hair.
However, if the number of hairs falling out increases, the hair strands become thinner, and thinning and baldness occur, this situation is now out of the norm and there may be hair loss that needs to be evaluated clinically.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
The underlying cause of hair loss may not be due to a single factor. Many internal and environmental factors can trigger this condition. The most common causes include:
Genetic predisposition is the most common cause of **androgenic alopecia (male pattern hair loss), especially in men. If there is a family history of hair loss, this risk is higher.
Stress is one of the triggers and accelerators of hair loss. Especially in individuals who experience intense stress, noticeable shedding may begin after a few months.
Hormonal changes can cause hair loss, especially in women, after birth, during breastfeeding, during menopause, or during hormonal disorders. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) also affect this process.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially iron, B12, vitamin D, zinc and biotin deficiencies can cause hair to become weak, break and fall out.
Thyroid diseases, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can negatively affect hair health. Hair becomes thinner, hair loss becomes more common and the growth rate slows down.
Intense weight loss, malnutrition, and extreme diet programs are also among the serious factors that cause hair loss. Hair follicles are directly affected by such sudden changes.
Environmental effects such as using the wrong hair products, tying them tightly, exposure to excessive heat, and chemical treatments (dyeing, perming, straightening) can also weaken hair follicles.
Hair Loss Seen Differently in Women and Men
Hair loss in men usually starts from the forehead line and progresses towards the crown. Lightness may occur over time. This type of loss is usually genetic.
In women, hair loss is more common thinning and sparse. While the forehead line is preserved, the volume of the hair decreases. Hormonal disorders, anemia and thyroid problems can trigger this condition.
In some women, the hairline may recede, similar to male-pattern baldness. In this case, hormonal tests should be evaluated in detail.
What Tests Should Be Done for Hair Loss?
Blood tests and dermatological examinations are of great importance in determining the underlying cause of hair loss. Although different tests are planned according to the needs of each patient, the following tests are generally helpful in revealing the cause of hair loss:
Complete blood count (hemogram): Indicates the presence of anemia. Hair loss caused by iron deficiency can be detected with this test.
Iron, ferritin, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels: These vitamins and minerals play a critical role in healthy hair growth. Deficiencies can cause hair to fall out and appear lifeless.
TSH, T3 and T4 (Thyroid tests): Under or over functioning of the thyroid gland can trigger hair loss. It is especially common in women.
Vitamin D level: Deficiency can lead to hair loss and weakening. It is a common deficiency in modern life.
Zinc and biotin levels: These are two important micronutrients that affect hair quality. Their deficiency can cause hair breakage and loss.
Hormonal tests (especially in women): The levels of hormones such as LH, FSH, prolactin, testosterone, DHEAS provide information, especially in cases of hair loss caused by polycystic ovary syndrome or hormonal imbalance.
In some cases, further dermatological evaluations such as hair pull test, dermatoscopic hair analysis or biopsy may be required.
When Should You Consult a Dermatologist?
If your hair loss has been going on for a long time, if your hair is visibly thinning, or if you have additional complaints such as itching, flaking, and sensitivity on your scalp, you should consult a dermatologist.
Early intervention allows the correct treatment process to be started according to the cause of hair loss. In some cases, a simple vitamin supplement may be sufficient, while in some cases, medical treatments or supportive procedures such as mesotherapy and PRP may be required.
Hair loss may be temporary, but the underlying causes should be identified before they cause permanent damage. Therefore, it is very important to seek professional support without neglecting your hair health.
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