Genetics is the # 1 cause of hair loss, or alopecia, affecting both men and women. In addition to our DNA there are other causes that affect us, and some are even responsible for hair loss in children. The list below details the leading causes of hair loss other than genetics.
Ringworm is a fungus, which if found on the scalp can cause hair loss. This is often found in children, and results in the hair breaking off at the scalp. Once treated, the hairs will grow back normally.
Illnesses and medical conditions may cause hair loss. This is commonly a hormonal problem which could include thyroid disease or diabetes that prevents hair production. Lupus and kidney or liver disease is also a cause. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal imbalance that causes hair loss in teenage girls and women.
Trichotillomania is just a $10 word for the psychological disorder where people twist and pull their own hair out. This is a leading cause of hair loss in children that may be nervous, anxious, or stressed out. Because this is a psychological problem, it can be difficult to stop.
Alopecia areata is a skin disease that primarily causes hair loss on the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body. An estimated 4 million people are affected by this disease in the USA. Total hair loss can result from this condition; however, it usually results in several small bald patches. Believe it or not, this disease is caused by one's own immune system mistakenly attacking your healthy hair follicles. Alopecia areata can begin in childhood and affects both males and females. More often than not the hair will grow back within a period of two years.
Cancer treatments used to kill cancer cells can also kill cells that cause the hair to grow. It is not the cancer itself that causes hair loss, but rather the powerful cancer drugs and treatments. New hair growth will begin once the treatments have stopped.
Hair coloring, dying, and chemical treatments may cause temporary hair loss. These treatments can damage the hair and cause them to break or fall out, but is usually not permanent.
Traction alopecia is the term for wearing your hair pulled so tightly it causes hair loss. When the hair is pulled tightly it causes tension on the scalp and can lead to hair and follicle damage which could be permanent.
Poor nutrition such as crash dieting, or eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia can cause hair loss. When the body does not get enough vitamins, minerals, or protein it cannot maintain hair growth. This is a common cause of hair loss in teenage girls. It can also affect vegetarians who do not get enough protein.
Delivery a baby or menopause resulting in hormonal changes is a common cause of female hair loss. Many times a hormone evaluation is needed to recognize what is causing the hair loss in women. This type of hair loss can often be corrected.
There are many causes of hair loss, with the primary reason having to do with the genes passed down to you by your mother and father. It is important to recognize other possible causes, as these are typically easy to correct.
For information on How to Prevent Hair Loss and other techniques, visit http://www.guide-to-hair-loss.com/