There are many factors that can cause thinning hair. First, it’s important to understand the difference between thin hair and thinning hair. Both appear the same but the two are very different. Thin hair or fine hair refers to the actual thickness of the individual strands of hair. Some of us are born with thin hair, which appears as being stringy or flat. Thinning happens during the beginning stages of hair loss. The thickness of the hair will decrease and become more and more fine so much so that eventually the hair follicle will disappear altogether, resulting in bald patches.
There are several causes of thinning hair and most of them are simply a result of nature taking its course, the most common cause being good old-fashioned genetics. Aging women typically experience thinning hair as they reach the golden years but sometimes it can occur much earlier in life. In some cases it’s so intense that it becomes a real problem and requires action to be taken.
Any drastic hormonal changes can be responsible for thinning hair. For example, menopause or post-pregnancy can often cause thinner hair. During menopause estrogen levels are diminishing which leaves hair in a vulnerable state. Nothing shifts hormones more than having a baby. During post-pregnancy many women experience some thinning or even some hair loss, which is normal and typically after a few months hormone levels even out and their hair goes back to its natural state.
Diet can play a role in causing thinning hair. Taking in too much vitamin A can really mess up the hair growth cycle. Anyone taking excessive amounts of supplements and notices thinning hair or hair loss should immediately cut back on their vitamin A intake. A lack of protein can also noticeably affect your hair growth. Some vegans and vegetarians experience thinning hair because they aren’t properly supplementing their protein source.
Sometimes when your body isn’t functioning at optimal health or full potential thinning hair can be a side effect. Emotional stress, rapid weight loss or illness can potentially cause trauma to your hair growth cycle. Certain autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata are irreversible and can only be treated with hair replacement systems. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and if you’re suffering from a disorder it can be very helpful to seek out a reputable hair loss specialist.
If you’re suffering from thinning hair New Look Institute can help. We invite you to meet privately with one of our hair restoration specialists to not only diagnose your what is causing it but also offer real and customized solutions to fit your needs. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.
Photo Credit: Elizabeth Ellis Via Flickr Creative Commons
