While it is natural to lose a small amount of hair every day, excessive hair loss can often be a sign of health problems or bad habits. The main causes are:
Nutritional deficiency: Protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and D are essential for hair growth. A deficiency in these in the diet weakens the hair roots and causes hair loss.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause in women can cause hair loss. In addition, the increase and decrease in thyroid gland function can affect the health of the hair.
Mental stress and lack of sleep: When you experience severe stress, the body can enter a state called ‘telogen effluvium’. This causes hair to fall out faster. Not getting proper sleep also affects cell renewal, which reduces hair growth.
Genetic factors: Many people are more prone to hereditary hair loss and baldness. This is called ‘androgenetic alopecia’. It starts to become noticeable as we age.
Use of chemicals and heat: Excessive coloring, straightening, and using strong shampoos on the hair can strip the hair of its natural strength. Excessive heat from hair dryers can cause hair to break.
