Why Does Hair Thin?
Understanding Hair Loss and Thinning Hair: What You Need to Know
The average person has about 100,000 hairs on their head and loses around 100 daily. While shedding hair is a natural part of the growth cycle, if hair doesn’t grow back at the same rate, or if more than 100 hairs fall out, it could signal thinning hair. In fact, a significant 40% of women experience visible hair loss by age 40. Understanding the causes and recognizing early signs can help address thinning hair before it worsens.
Reasons for Thinning Hair
Thinning hair can occur for several reasons. Below are some common factors that contribute to hair loss:
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Genetics: Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss, affecting over 80 million people in the U.S. Unfortunately, this condition often runs in families and can impact both men and women.
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Diet: Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals can lead to hair loss. For example, low levels of biotin, zinc, and iron are frequently linked to thinning hair. Ensuring a balanced diet with the right nutrients is essential for healthy hair growth.
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Hormones: Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, often trigger hair issues. During pregnancy, women may experience thicker hair, but after childbirth, hair loss can occur. Similarly, hormonal shifts during menopause often lead to noticeable thinning.
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Stress: Stress is a major factor in the onset of Alopecia areata, a condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss. Chronic stress can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and contribute to more significant hair thinning.
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Illness: Certain illnesses, including autoimmune disorders like lupus and thyroid diseases, can also cause hair loss. The stress these conditions place on the body may interfere with the normal hair cycle, leading to thinning or shedding.
The Hair Growth Cycle
Understanding the hair growth cycle can help explain why hair thinning occurs. The cycle has three distinct phases:
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Anagen Phase: This phase lasts between 2-6 years and is considered the growing phase. During this time, cells at the root of each hair divide rapidly, pushing the old strand out to make room for new growth.
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Catagen Phase: The catagen phase lasts 2-3 weeks and is often referred to as a transitional phase. Hair growth slows down as the hair follicle prepares to shed the old hair. The hair shaft detaches from the root during this phase.
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Telogen Phase: This phase lasts about 3 months and is known as the resting phase. The hair fully forms and stays in place until it is ready to shed. If you pull hair from the scalp during this phase, you may notice a hard white substance at the tip, which is the keratinized part of the hair follicle.
How to Treat Thinning Hair
Now that you know the causes and cycle of hair growth, here are some treatments that can help combat thinning hair:
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Supplements: Viviscal is a daily supplement designed to strengthen weak, thinning hair. By providing essential nutrients like biotin, it promotes healthy growth and prevents breakage. This supplement is ideal for those dealing with hair loss and looking to encourage fuller, stronger hair.
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PRP Treatments: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a cutting-edge biotechnology used to treat early-stage androgenic alopecia or thinning hair. The process involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, which is then processed to extract the plasma. This plasma is injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and improve the health of the follicles.
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Hair Care: Thinning hair requires extra care, and using the right products is key. Look for products that promote scalp health and encourage hair growth. Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter ingredient proven to help promote thicker hair. It works by stimulating hair follicles and prolonging the hair growth phase.
Still Need Help?
If you’re struggling with hair loss or thinning, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with one of our expert providers at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center. We can help assess the cause of your hair concerns and provide tailored treatments to restore your hair’s health. Call us today at 703-356-5111 to book your consultation.
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