New Delhi: Hair loss can be a distressing experience that affects both men and women, impacting self-esteem and confidence levels. While some forms of hair loss may be temporary or reversible, others may require long-term management. Treatments range from topical and oral medications, such as minoxidil and finasteride, to low-level laser light therapy, mesotherapy, and hair transplant surgeries. To tackle this common condition effectively, it is essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of the causes of hair loss. 


Causes Of Hair Loss:


Here are some common causes of hair loss listed by Dr. Nivedita Dadu, who is a dermatologist and founder and Chairman of Dadu Medical Centre:


Genetics: Genetics plays a significant role in hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most prevalent type influenced by inherited genes. It results in a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp, eventually leading to baldness.


Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can trigger hair loss. Conditions such as pregnancy, menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and thyroid disorders can disrupt the hormonal balance, leading to temporary or prolonged hair thinning.


Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions and illnesses contribute to hair loss. Autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata cause the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, resulting in patchy hair loss. Scalp infections, such as ringworm, can also cause hair to fall out. Additionally, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder) and telogen effluvium (excessive shedding of hair) can lead to noticeable hair loss.


Also, certain medications and treatments can have hair loss as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs, used in cancer treatment, target rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, resulting in temporary hair loss. Similarly, medications for conditions like high blood pressure, depression, and arthritis can contribute to hair thinning.


Stress: Stressful life events, emotional trauma, and chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.


Nutrition: Poor nutrition, crash diets, and vitamin deficiencies (especially iron, zinc, and biotin) can weaken the hair and contribute to its loss.


Hair Styling Tools: Excessive use of hairstyling tools, such as flat irons and blow dryers, and tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss resulting from tension on the hair.


Age: As we age, hair growth naturally slows down, and hair follicles become thinner and regenerate much slower. This gradual decrease in hair density is a normal part of the ageing process and is more pronounced in men, leading to male pattern baldness.


Reasons For Hair Loss In Children:


Hair loss (Alopecia) is classified as congenital (since birth) and acquired (after birth). Some are associated with scars and some are nonscarring, some children have patchy hair loss and some have diffuse associated with many conditions. Hair loss in children is preventable.


Dr. Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, listed some reasons for hair loss in children:



  • Infections like fungal and bacterial of which alopecia due to fungal infection is most common.

  • Autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, which are nonscarring alopecia and the second common cause of hair loss

  • Telogen effluvium which is diffuse nonscarring alopecia ( hair loss) resulting from several causes like illness, surgery, medications, etc

  • Trichotillomania is an impulse control disorder in which there is the compulsive urge to pull out the hair followed by a sense of transient relief.


It is important to understand that childhood alopecia is different from alopecia in adults. A dermatologist can treat most causes of alopecia and reverse it.


Food Items To Include In Diet To Lower The Chances Of Hair Loss:


Anupama Menon who is a Health & lifestyle coach recommended incorporating the following food items into your daily diet to support hair health and combat hair loss:


Protein-Rich Foods:


Protein is an essential nutrient for hair growth as it provides the building blocks for hair follicles. Include lean sources of protein such as eggs, lean meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and dairy products in your diet. Plant-based options like lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa are excellent alternatives for vegetarians and vegans.


Omega-3 Fatty Acids:


Omega-3 fatty acids nourish the hair follicles, reduce inflammation, and promote overall scalp health. Incorporate fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines into your diet. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, opt for plant-based sources such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.


Iron-Rich Foods:


Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, especially among women. Include iron-rich foods like lean red meat, poultry, fish, spinach, kale, legumes, and fortified cereals to maintain adequate iron levels. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources like citrus fruits or bell peppers can enhance iron absorption.


Vitamin C:


Vitamin C aids in the production of collagen, a vital component of hair structure. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Other options include strawberries, kiwis, guavas, and bell peppers.


Biotin:


Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays a crucial role in hair health and growth. Include biotin-rich foods like eggs, nuts (especially almonds and walnuts), seeds (such as sunflower and chia seeds), sweet potatoes, and avocados in your diet. Additionally, consider incorporating biotin supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional.


Zinc:


Zinc supports the growth and repair of hair tissues. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, beef, lamb, pumpkin seeds, lentils, and fortified cereals. Ensure you consume adequate zinc to maintain healthy hair.


Vitamin E:


Vitamin E is an antioxidant that promotes healthy blood circulation to the scalp, thereby enhancing hair growth. Include foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, avocados, and vegetable oils (such as sunflower oil and olive oil) to boost your vitamin E intake.


While no single food can miraculously prevent hair loss, incorporating a well-balanced diet with these hair-nourishing food items can significantly lower the chances of hair loss and promote healthier hair growth.