Hair loss, scientifically known as alopecia, is a condition that can impact the scalp or the entire body, and its impact can be temporary or permanent. Several factors, such as hormonal changes, specific medical conditions, the natural aging process, or hereditary factors, trigger this condition. Though everyone is susceptible to hair loss, it is observed more frequently in men. However, both genders can experience diffuse hair loss that occurs evenly across the scalp.
This post briefly examines whether hair loss results from hereditary factors. If so, what is the role of genetics? If not, what other factors can one attribute to hair loss?
Hair Growth and Loss Cycle
Hair growth occurs in four phases that include growth (2-7 years), transitional (2 weeks), resting (12 weeks), and release. The medical term for hair loss is alopecia, which occurs in two ways: cicatricial and non-cicatricial. Cicatricial manifests through follicle loss and is irreversible. Non-cicatricial alopecia is potentially reversible with the right dermatological intervention.
Heredity’s Role in Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss
Androgenic alopecia, or hereditary hair loss, is the most common. It occurs gradually and follows a predictable pattern. A male’s hereditary hair loss can start as early as puberty. Half the male population loses hair this way, while the intensity varies depending on inherited genes. One starts noticing bald spots while their hairline recedes from the temple to the top of the head. Eventually, one becomes bald.
On the contrary, as a female, one notices thinning of their erstwhile youthful hair. Unlike in males, a female’s hairline won’t recede. Thinning of hair over a female’s scalp occurs naturally with age. At the same time, the loss can start after puberty but becomes noticeable by age 40. A quarter of females experience hair thinning by age 50, but it rarely results in baldness.
Overall, genetics or heredity causes most patterned baldness. Examining one’s family history is necessary to determine whether it emanates from the father’s or mother’s side. Even though genetic hair loss is unpreventable, one can slow it down through diet, supplements, and medication.
Non-Hereditary Hair Loss
Despite genetics being a significant contributor to hair loss, other causes of non-hereditary hair loss exist. Stress, nutritional imbalance, underlying health conditions, and drug use contribute to hair loss.
High, uncontrolled stress levels may trigger hair loss through a condition known as telogen effluvium. Here, stress interferes with the natural hair growth cycle, causing hair strands to fall off or start thinning. Usually, such stress levels result from illness, surgery, job loss, divorce, or loss of a close family member.
Similarly, nutritional aspects — such as inadequate vitamins, minerals, iron, and protein intake — can cause hair loss. Incorporating Vitamins B12, C, and D may promote hair growth.
On the other hand, one could lose hair at the onset of illnesses such as diabetes or lupus. Hair loss is also a side effect of skin disorders and chemotherapy treatment for cancer. In addition, medications for managing arthritis and blood pressure and supplementing deficient vitamins induce hair loss.
Takeaways
Hair loss is a concern that transcends gender, impacting both men and women. Hereditary elements largely govern the extent of hair loss, though they are not the sole contributors. Non-hereditary factors, such as stress-induced hair loss, can also contribute to this complex issue. If you’re dealing with hair loss and need answers, contact Custom Hair Tampa Bay by clicking here.
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