Excessive hair loss - causes, diagnosis, treatment (doctor's advice)

The condition of our hair can tell us a lot about the state of our health. Shiny, strong and thick hair is a sign of a healthy body. What should we do when we notice in the mirror that we have less of it and brushing it starts to feel stressful?"

With experts, we will introduce you to the possible causes of hair loss, explain how to diagnose the problem and how the treatment works. You will also learn about proven home remedies for hair loss to further support the treatment process.

The following are some of the best ways to treat hair loss.

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• Biotin for hair
• Hair supplements
• Vitamins for hair
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• Hair conditioners
• Hair loss supplements
• Hair loss shampoos
• Solgar Hair Skin Nails - compositional analysis
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How is hair structured?

To understand the causes of hair loss, you first need to know the structure of the hair and its growth stages. 

Hair is made up of a protein called keratinand. The hair is not only the visible stem, but also everything under the skin. The hair bulb is the base of the hair follicle and within it the cells divide and grow to build the shaft. The follicle 'anchors' the hair to the skin. Blood vessels nourish the cells of the hair follicle and provide hormones that affect the growth and structure of the hair at different stages of its life.

Hair growth phases

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Hair undergoes numerous transformations during the hair cycle. Each hair follicle goes through three phasesand:

1. Anagen, or active hair growth - lasts between 2 and 6 years.

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6. Catagen, which is the involution (transitional) phase - lasts from 2 to 3 weeks.

7. Telogen, which is the resting, dying and hair loss phase - lasts 3 to 4 months.

The sequence of the cycle is invariable and repeats itself many times in the life of each individual. The course of the process (e.g. the rate of growth or the quality of the hair) depends on genetics, gender, age, health, diet and the work of the endocrine glands.

When do we talk about hair loss?

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You may lose about 50-100 hairs per day and this is a natural phenomenon related to the growth phases. A higher number, above a hundred, should be cause for concern. Does this mean that from now on you have to count every hair on your brush? Fortunately, no. Excessive shedding can be seen with the naked eye.

What should cause concern?

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• After combing, more than the usual amount of hair is left on the brush Remember to clean the brush of hair after each combing so that hair does not accumulate on the brush.

• After washing your hair, you notice that there is more hair than usual in the drain or on the towel.

• After washing your hair, you notice that there is more hair than usual in the drain or on the towel.

• When combing your hair, you notice clearances - for example, deepening bends or thinning on the top of your head that wasn't there before.

• When combing your hair, you notice that there is more hair than usual.

• More hair appears on the clothes you wear, e.g. on the back and shoulders of a jacket or jumper.

• You notice more hair on the clothes you wear.

• You are finding hair on the floor of your flat, which was not the case before.

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• You are finding hair on the floor of your flat, which was not the case before.

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• Hair is in poor condition - brittle, dull, frizzy, dry or with split ends.

   

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• Hair is in poor condition.

Hair loss - causes

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Hair loss has many causes: genetic, hormonal, environmental, related to nutrition and deficiencies (e.g. iron, vitamin B12, vitamin A), physical activity, stress and even improper hair care and styling.

Hair loss has many causes.

In the physiological course of the growth process, new hair usually replaces lost hair. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Hair loss can develop gradually or occur suddenly. Depending on the cause, the loss can be temporary or permanent.

Effective treatment of hair loss depends on the speed and accuracy of diagnosis. Hair falls out for many reasons, at different stages of life. Below, you will read exactly why you may be losing your hair.

The following is an overview of why you may be losing your hair.

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Why does hair fall out? The most common causes areand:

• Hormonal causes, e.g. thyroid disease, pregnancy, menopause.
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• Scalp disorders.
• Scalp disorders.
• Stress and living under tension.
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• Inappropriate and nutritionally poor diet,
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• Chronic diseases, e.g. anemia, diabetes, kidney disease.
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• Eating-related diseases, e.g. anorexia.
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• Response to medication being taken.
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• Inadequate hair care and styling.
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• Seasonality.
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• Age.
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Below you will read about the specifics of each cause - perhaps this will be the first step to your diagnosis. 

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Hormone support

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Hair cells are some of the fastest growing cells in the human body. The endocrine system supports many important functions crucial to the hair growth cycle. If the hormonal balance is upset, hair loss can be one of the first signs of endocrine-related disorders or diseasesand.

Thyroid hormones should be checked and your doctor may order tests for oestradiol, testosterone, androstendione, DHEA-SO4, progesterone, prolactin.

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Thyroid problems

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In the process of hair growth, sex hormones and thyroid hormones are most important. They influence  the regulation of metabolism and the supply of the right amount of nutrients to the hair. Both too much thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) and too little (underactive) can cause hair lossand.

Effective treatment of thyroid disease (including the increasingly common diseases Hashimoto's or Graves-Basedova) can restore hormonal balance and stop hair loss.

When was the last time you tested your thyroid hormones? If more than a year ago, get tested - have your TSH, FT-3 and FT-4 levels determined.

Androgenetic alopecia

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This type of alopecia, usually associated as a 'male problem', affects both men and womenand. It should be treated as two separate conditions. It has a genetic and hormonal basis. The main culprit is dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that affects hair follicle cells in two waysand:

• Induces miniaturisation of the hair follicle, leading to shorter, thinner and lighter hair.

• Shortens the duration of the hair growth phase and prolongs the period during which the hair follicle produces new hair after the loss of telogen hair.

• It also reduces the duration of the hair growth phase and prolongs the period during which the hair follicle produces new hair after the loss of telogen hair.

Androgenetic alopecia in men is characterised by loss of hair in the frontal angles (hair curves), and in women by hair loss on the peak of the head. Comorbidities of polycystic ovarian syndrome, insulin resistance, hyperprolactinaemia and thyroid diseaseand are important in the diagnosis, particularly in women.

It is not possible to cure androgenetic alopecia completely, but it is possible to inhibit hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth. The sooner we respond, the better the chance of keeping hair aliveand.

Telogenetic alopecia

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Remember the description of the phases of the hair growth cycle at the beginning of this article? Telogen alopecia refers to a disturbed telogen phase. Some of our hair should be in the resting phase, but most should be in the growing phaseand.

In telogenic alopecia, the proportion is disturbed - more hair goes into the resting phase and this results in hair loss. Telogenic alopecia is treatable and full regrowth of lost hair is possible. As soon as you notice symptoms, see a specialist, such as a dermatologist or trichologist

Pregnancy

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Do you know the wonderful tales of luscious hair during pregnancy? This is a special time in a woman's life, during which many changes take place in her body due to increased hormonal activity. Thanks to increased levels of oestrogen, especially in the second and third trimesters, mums-to-be enjoy strong hairand.

Although, sometimes pregnant women may experience hair loss, for example due to stress, poor diet, hormonal changes or vitamin deficiencies . This is normal and should subside after birth or postpartum. If you are pregnant and your hair is falling out, take advice from your doctor, but also pay attention to your diet and relaxation.

Postpartum

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When a woman enters the difficult postpartum period, estrogen levels drop rapidly and hair may fall outand. This is natural and after about three to four months - if the mother controls her hormone levels and takes care of her diet - the hair starts to grow back. If the problem persists, blood tests should be done and a doctor should be consulted.

Menopause

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As women age, the concentration of oestrogen and progesterone decreases. These two hormones affect the hair follicles, extending the duration of the hair growth phase. Their reduced presence in the body during the menopause can result in hair loss. This is favoured by a concomitant increase in androgens relative to oestrogensand.

Scalp disorders

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As I mentioned at the beginning, hair is not just the shaft. Its quality and growth is also influenced by our skin, specifically the scalp. Certain skin conditions can cause hair loss. These conditions include psoriasis, ringworm of the scalp, lichen planusand. 

Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis contribute to hair loss indirectly - this has to do with the patient scratching the scalp and damaging the hair follicles. Irritated skin and constant inflammation prevent hair from growing properly.

Stress

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Permanent stress can cause hair loss and this has to do with its negative effects on the hair growth cycle. As a result of constant mental stress, many hairs go into a resting phase too quickly, which accelerates hair lossand.

Increased levels of the stress hormone - cortisol - also disrupt hair growth phases and can cause excessive hair lossand. I know that don't stress, it's.... the most annoying piece of advice you may hear, but even reducing stressors and learning to relax is very helpful.

Inappropriate diet

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Hair without 'fuel' cannot grow properly. Restrictive diets (e.g. chronic juice detoxes), prolonged weight reduction, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia), a poorly varied menu cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Hair particularly needs  vitamins A, D, E, C, B, as well as zinc, selenium, iron and omega-3 acids (DHA and EPA).

Chronic diseases

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Hair loss accompanies many chronic diseases, especially if not properly treated. Patients with anemia, rheumatoid arthritis,  diabetes and thyroid disease, liver and kidneyand.

complain of hair loss.

Remember that prompt diagnosis, implementation of treatment and regular check-ups with your doctor can minimise or stop hair loss in the above diseases.

Response to medications taken

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It is not only chemotherapy that causes hair loss. Taking certain medications can also result in hair lossand. This happens through their effect on the growth cycle. Drug-induced hair loss can be immediate or delayed, sudden or gradual, diffuse or localised.

Plegic hair loss refers to the use of, among others: certain antibiotics, birth control pills, antidepressants, steroidsand. If you are taking medication and suspect it is linked to hair loss, check the side effects in the leaflet or ask your doctor.

Inappropriate hair care and styling

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Some hair care practices can cause weakening and hair loss. 

Anna Mackojć, founder of the Trichology Institute, shares her experience:

These hair styling mistakes avoidand:

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• use of inappropriate, tugging brushes,
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• frequent colouring, bleaching of hair,
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• frequent use of curling irons, straighteners,
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• use of excessively strong hair styling preparations,
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• frequent application of dry shampoos to the scalp,
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• use of unsuitable shampoos or oils (which, for example, clog the skin),
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• dry hairstyles and updos,
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The above practices dry out the hair, block air access to the hair follicles, damage the hair structure and can cause hair loss.

See also:

• Conscious hair care
.
• Home hair care products
.

Seasonality

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Scientists have long been looking at the phenomenon of seasonal hair lossand. During autumn and winter we may notice an increased amount of hair on the brush after combing, but this is a natural phenomenon. 

Seasonal hair loss should subside on its own. During the peak hair loss season, follow a diet rich in fruit and vegetables and supplement with vitamin D. Providing your hair with vitamins and minerals can slow down hair loss.

Hair

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Hair can fall out excessively at any age, but it is most common in people who are over 50and. At this age, the anagen phase shortens and the ratio between anagen and telogen is disrupted. Remember, however, that this is not a rule and hair loss depends on genes and hormonal status .

Hair loss after COVID-19

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Scientists are looking at the effects of surviving coronavirus infection . Many recovering patients report a problem with hair loss. It will be several years before scientists can determine the exact mechanism and effect of COVID-19 on this ailment. Hair loss can be caused by weakness after infection, stress, the effect of the virus on the growth phases of the hair.

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After an infection, let's pay particular attention to our diet. For some people, contact with the virus has significantly weakened the body, so it is important to strengthen it and provide the nutrients it needs for recovery - vitamins and minerals, adds the nutritionist.

Diagnosis of hair loss - what should be investigated?

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You already know the possible causes of hair loss, and now it's time for a diagnosis. If you don't have regular (once every six months) basic blood tests - start doing them. And get the first test done right now.

Supportive tests for diagnosing hair loss are:

• morphology (basic and preferably extended),
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• thyroid hormones (TSH, FT-3, FT-4),
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• concentration of iron, ferritin, zinc, transferrin and vitamin B12 in serum.

These tests are the basis for the search for the cause of hair loss. They will be a good indication for the doctor and the trichologist. I have asked Dr Witold Tomaszewski, M.D., about the possibility of performing these tests within the framework of the National Health Fund.

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We can obtain referrals for other tests from a specialist (e.g. endocrinologist) or perform them privately.

May be of interest to you:

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• Blood tests
• Cortisol testing
• Thyroid tests

How to stop hair loss? Treatment

I have good news: you can treat hair loss effectively. The sooner you can diagnose the cause, the better the chance of regaining your lush hairstyle and confidence.

Visit to your GP

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After you have had your blood tests, visit your GP to discuss the results. Do not check or compare your test results with the values given on the internet. Laboratories have different reference ranges, give results in different units, and often tests are performed on equipment from different manufacturers. These differences can unnecessarily stress you out or, on the contrary, lull you to sleep. It is best to hear the diagnosis directly from your doctor and not from other internet users.

The doctor may order additional tests to broaden the diagnostic pathway. He or she will interview you about your chronic diseases, medications and supplements used, diet and lifestyle. Treatment will depend on the final diagnosis - your doctor will prescribe appropriate medication or refer you to a specialist with a specific specialisation (e.g. an endocrinologist).

To the rescue - a trichologist

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A good adjunct to treatment is a visit to a trichologist. A trichologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats hair and scalp problems. With modern and accurate equipment, a trichologist can take a close look at your skin and hair, tailoring a treatment to your needs.

When treating hair loss, the trichologist can carry out a range of treatments that are beneficial to the scalp and hair, such as needle mesotherapy, scalp peeling, and infusion.

Hair loss prevention

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Even if hair loss doesn't affect you or you are currently on the road to curing the condition - we have some tips for you on how to take care of your scalp and hair.

Vitamins for hair loss

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Remember to approach hair loss holistically - in addition to medications and hair strengthening treatments, pay attention to the supply of vitamins and minerals in your diet.

What vitamins and minerals help treat hair loss?

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The best contributors to healthy and nourished hair are vitamins A, E, C, D, B vitamins and zinc, selenium, iron and silicon.

Each of these vitamins plays a different role in the body, but all are responsible for the good condition and appearance of the scalp and hair. 

Home remedies for hair loss

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We are not going to write to you that making a hair mask with specific ingredients will solve the problem of hair loss. The treatment process is long and requires patience and systematics. As you already know from the article, hair is not only the shaft, but also what is under the skin. Hair is also taken care of from the inside.

How can you support hair loss treatment? Here are a handful of tips from trichologist Anna Janaszek.

• Regularly perform basic blood and urine tests. Early detection of abnormalities means a quicker response and determination of the cause.

  Regularly perform basic blood and urine tests.

• Sleep and relax. A nourishing sleep has an invaluable effect on the condition of the whole body.

• Get a varied menu rich in vitamins and minerals. Start by adding fruit and vegetables to your meals. Remember to drink min. 2.5 litres of fluids a day.

• Care properly for your scalp and hair: choose the right brush, comb your hair gently, trim the ends regularly, massage your scalp, regularly disinfect everything that touches your scalp (brushes, bobby pins, clips, pillowcases, caps, hats).

• Particularly if you have a haircut, make sure your scalp is well cared for.

• Exercise - find your favourite activity and do sport regularly. It's not just your hair that will thank you, but your whole body too!

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Hair facts

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Hair in numbersand:

• Hair grows about 0.35 mm per day, or about 1-1.5 cm per month.

• Single hairs live an average of 6 years.

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• It is not possible to grow a single hair.

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• The average person has approximately 80,000 - 120,000 hairs.

   

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• The average person has approximately 80,000 - 120,000 hairs.

• An average of 87% of hair is in the anagen phase, 13% is in the telogen phase and less than 1% of hair is in the catagen phase.

• The average person's hair is in the anagen phase.

• The number of hairs depends on their natural colour: the average blonde has 150,000 hairs, a brunette 110,000, a black-haired woman 100,000 and a redhead 90,000.

• The number of hairs depends on their natural colour.

• One hair can withstand a load of 110 g.

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• The average hair can bear a load of 110 g.

See also:

• Collagen for hair, skin and nails
.
• Dangerous beauty tips from TikTok
• Conscious hair care
• Home hair care products

Summary

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