Losing hair or hair loss is a worry that many young people face, and it’s not just something that happens when you get older. Finding hair on your pillow, in your comb, or the shower can be really upsetting. In this article, we’ll talk about why hair falls out early and explore simple solutions to help with this common problem.
How hair grows
Understanding how hair grows is important to figure out why it might be falling out. Hair goes through three main phases:
- The active growth phase (anagen)
- The transitional phase (catagen)
- The resting phase (telogen)
Each hair on your head follows this cycle on its own. But some things can mess up this cycle and make your hair fall out more than it should.
Reasons for early age hair loss
Genetics:
If your parents or close family members lost their hair early, you might too. Knowing your family history can give you an idea if you’re likely to have hair fall.
Hormonal changes:
Hormone changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to hair fall. Hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can make hair thin and fall out early.
Poor nutrition:
Eating well is crucial for healthy hair. Not getting enough iron, zinc, vitamins A and D, and protein can make your hair fall. Fast lifestyles and bad eating habits can leave you without the nutrients your hair needs.
Stress and lifestyle:
Stress and an unhealthy lifestyle can harm your hair. Stress discharges a hormone called cortisol, which, when high for a long time, can mess with your hair growth. Not enough sleep, smoking, and too much alcohol can also cause early hair loss.
Environmental factors:
Things like pollution, harsh chemicals in hair products, and extreme weather can weaken your hair, making it more likely to break and fall. Tight hairstyles and using hot tools too much can also harm your hair and cause it to fall out.
Medical conditions:
Certain health problems like PCOS, thyroid issues, and autoimmune diseases can make your hair fall early. If you suspect a health issue, it’s important to see a doctor.
Practical solutions for early hair loss
Balanced nutrition:
Eat meals with lots of vitamins, minerals, and protein to keep your hair healthy. Leafy greens, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds are good choices. If you can’t get enough from food, consider taking supplements.
Regular exercise:
Moving your body helps blood flow, including to your scalp. Exercise not only keeps you healthy but also brings more nutrients to your hair follicles, promoting good hair growth.
Stress management:
Try stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Balancing work and personal life is important to prevent long-term stress.
Proper hair care:
Use gentle hair products without harsh chemicals. Avoid utilizing hot styling tools too often, and go for loose hairstyles to reduce tension on your hair. Regular trims can also contain split ends and keep your hair healthier.
Medical consultation:
If you think a health issue is causing your hair loss, see a doctor. They can run tests to find out if there’s an imbalance or other health problem that needs treatment.
Topical treatments:
Some over-the-counter treatments with minoxidil can help hair growth. But it’s important to use them under a doctor’s guidance, as they might only be right for some.
Laser therapy:
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can stimulate hair growth. Devices like laser caps or combs send low-level lasers or LEDs to the scalp, encouraging hair follicles to be more active.
Understanding why hair falls out early is the first step to fixing the problem. By dealing with the root causes, leading a healthy lifestyle, and getting help when needed, you can take steps to stop hair fall. Remember, abiding care of your overall health is not just good for your hair but for your whole quality of life.
