Hair loss is a common concern for many people, and it can be a distressing experience. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of hair loss is crucial, as it can help you take proactive steps to address the issue. In this post, we'll explore how to identify if you are experiencing hair loss, and what to do about it.
1. Increased Hair Shedding:
- One of the initial signs of hair loss is increased hair shedding. You may notice more hair in your shower drain, on your pillow, or when you run your fingers through your hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is considered normal, but if you're consistently losing more, it could indicate a problem. Hair shedding is probably the most foolproof way to figure out if there is cause for concern. A great way to keep track is by counting the hairs that come out in the shower, if your consistently losing over 100 hairs it is time to do something about it. Additionally, if you notice more short hairs than long hairs, this is a clear sign of androgenic alopecia.
2. Thinning Hair:
- Hair thinning, particularly on the top of the head, can be a telltale sign of hair loss. The Mayo Clinic explains that thinning hair can be due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. The mirror wont lie to you, in fact most people lose over 50% of their hair before they even notice any physical changes. A great way to keep track of this is by taking monthly pictures of the top of your head in bright lighting, compare these pictures over time to determine if you are losing hair.
3. Receding Hairline:
- Similar to hair thinning, a receding hairline is a common pattern of hair loss, particularly in men. The Cleveland Clinic states that this often begins with the temples or the crown of the head. Monitoring changes in your hairline is essential to identify hair loss early.
4. Bald Spots:
- Sudden, localized bald spots on the scalp can be indicative of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. If you notice such bald patches, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
5. Slower Hair Growth:
- Pay attention to the growth rate of your hair. If you notice that your hair is growing more slowly or not at all, it could be a sign of hair loss. Harvard Health Publishing notes that factors like age and genetics can affect hair growth.
6. Itchy or Painful Scalp:
- An itchy or painful scalp, often accompanied by redness or inflammation, may be a sign of underlying scalp conditions that can lead to hair loss. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), scalp conditions like psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis can contribute to hair loss.
7. Family History:
- Your genetics play a significant role in hair loss. If you have a family history of hair loss, particularly on your mother's or father's side, you may be at a higher risk. The American Hair Loss Association reports that hereditary hair loss is the most common cause of hair loss.
8. Stress or Life Changes:
- High levels of stress or significant life changes, such as childbirth, illness, or rapid weight loss, can trigger a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium. The AAD explains that this condition causes hair to thin or shed more than usual. However, it is important to note that telogen effluvium is not the same as androgenic alopecia and often corrects itself with time. If you are experiencing higher amounts of stress than normal, try to decrease stress through lifestyle changes, sleep, and supplementation.
Hair loss can be extremely debilitating. Most people won't even realize they are experiencing hair loss until they lose over 50% of their hair, which is why early detection is so useful. In fact, many health professionals recommend starting a hair lose prevention protocol in your mid twenties as a preventative measure. Check out our blog post The Hair Loss Pyramid - Which Hair Loss Treatment Is Right For You, to learn more about what options you have when it comes to treating hair loss.
Sources:
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) - www.aad.org
- Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org
- Cleveland Clinic - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Harvard Health Publishing - www.health.harvard.edu
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) - www.niams.nih.gov
- American Hair Loss Association - www.americanhairloss.org