Causes of Hair Loss

Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Hair loss can cause us many troubles, not only affecting our life and work, but also bringing us significant mental stress. So, what are the general causes of hair loss? 1. Endocrine disorders: Hair growth is affected by various hormonal influences. The pressure from routine work, life, and studies can cause disruptions in physical functions, as well as conditions like postpartum and menopause, leading to endocrine disorders. 2. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies and abnormal metabolism can lead to hair loss, with severe malnutrition even causing diffuse hair loss. 3. Genetic factors: Typically, males are more prone to hair loss due to genetic traits that manifest under the influence of androgens. 4. Physical illness: Some medications taken for diseases can cause side effects, including hair loss. 5. Physical and chemical hair loss: Frequent perming and hair dyeing, long hours in front of computers, and frequent use of mobile phones can all lead to hair loss.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Is it good to wash your hair frequently if you have seborrheic hair loss?

Frequent shampooing is not good for those experiencing seborrheic hair loss. This is because frequent washing does not alleviate symptoms of seborrheic hair loss. For oily scalps, shampooing temporarily reduces oiliness, but washing too often can lead to a buildup of chemical residues, causing scalp inflammation and worsening hair loss. Frequent shampooing also damages the scalp's lipid barrier, leading to temporary dryness and scalp dermatitis, further exacerbating hair loss. Therefore, frequent shampooing is not recommended for those with seborrheic hair loss. For individuals experiencing seborrheic hair loss, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital promptly. Under the guidance of a doctor, appropriate medication and lifestyle advice can effectively cure the condition.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Is supplementing with zinc useful for seborrheic hair loss?

Patients with seborrheic alopecia can appropriately supplement with zinc-rich preparations and foods, which have certain auxiliary effects on the hair. Seborrheic alopecia, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a type of hair loss characterized by genetic factors and dependent on androgen action. It can occur in both men and women, though it is more common in men. Treatment mainly targets the hair follicles, and there is no particularly effective cure. Treatments can include topical application of 2% or 5% minoxidil solution, oral administration of finasteride, and for women, oral spironolactone can be used. If necessary, treatment can be supplemented with traditional Chinese medicine and scalp acupuncture, including plum blossom needle therapy. For cases of seborrheic alopecia where the hair follicles have significantly atrophied, scalp transplantation and hair transplantation may also be options. Patients with seborrheic alopecia should also pay attention to their diet by consuming light, nutritious foods and avoiding spicy and irritating substances. It is beneficial to consume foods containing high-quality complex proteins and various vitamins, including vitamins, trace elements, zinc, copper, calcium, etc., all of which assist in hair growth.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How to treat hair loss?

There are many types of hair loss, such as sudden localized patchy hair loss known as alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia which is related to genetic factors and dependent on the action of androgens, also known as seborrheic alopecia, as well as postpartum hair loss due to insufficient qi and blood after childbirth, and telogen effluvium caused by rapid weight loss or dieting. The specific treatment of hair loss should be based on the corresponding cause. The cause of alopecia areata is not completely clear, and it is related to factors such as emotions, stress, endocrine disruption, and autoimmunity. Treatment generally includes oral intake of compound glycyrrhizin tablets and topical application of minoxidil. If the skin lesions are widespread or severe, the combination of corticosteroid treatment may be considered, and treatment generally lasts several months or even longer. Androgenetic alopecia often occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 and is related to familial genetics. The treatment of this condition lacks very effective remedies. Treatment options include topical minoxidil, and oral intake of finasteride. Traditional Chinese medicine has relatively good effects in treating androgenetic alopecia, including the oral intake of Chinese herbal medicine and local acupuncture treatment. Attention should be paid to avoiding staying up late and maintaining a light diet. When the hair follicles have already closed, local hair transplantation can be carried out, transferring hair from the occipital region of the scalp to the top. If the area of androgenetic alopecia is too large without sufficient follicles for transplantation, then the use of a wig should be considered. (Note: Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What are the causes of male seborrheic alopecia?

Male seborrheic alopecia is also called androgenetic alopecia, which is related to excessive secretion of endogenous androgens leading to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands. Excessive secretion of sebaceous glands makes the hair follicles loose and buoyant, so the hair roots are not firm and will fall out. It is also related to family genetics; most men in the same family will exhibit similar symptoms of hair loss. Once this condition occurs, formal treatment can bring about some improvement. However, most men may experience recurrent hair loss as they age into their 40s or 50s, and this hair loss is irreversible. Generally speaking, it becomes difficult to completely cure with age.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long does it take for postpartum hair loss to recover?

Postpartum hair loss is a very common phenomenon. Generally, women's hair will gradually return to normal within six months to a year after childbirth. Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, a woman's hair may not be as thick as before, which is normal. Recovery can be facilitated by improving diet, ensuring adequate rest and sleep, exercising to enhance physical resistance, and consuming foods rich in proteins and vitamins, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits. Generally, most people can return to normal within six months to a year.