Understanding Hair Loss: Common Causes and Prevention Strategies
Hair loss often results from a combination of genetics, hormonal shifts, and internal stressors. According to trichologist Anabel Kingsley and nutrition expert Suzanne Cooper, thinning hair can be an early indicator of bodily imbalances, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to thyroid issues, and typically becomes noticeable only after a person has lost roughly 20% of their hair volume.
Hormonal Shifts and Menopause
Menopause represents a significant turning point for hair density in women. Anabel Kingsley states that oestrogen serves as a supportive hormone for the scalp and skin; when levels become sporadic during perimenopause, women may experience bouts of excessive shedding. Once oestrogen levels drop and remain low, individual hair strands often thin.
This process increases sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that attacks and shrinks hair follicles. While men naturally have more DHT, Suzanne Cooper notes that women during menopause become more susceptible to its effects. Treatment options include prescription medications like Finasteride, though Cooper warns of potential side effects including anxiety, low mood, and low libido. She suggests natural DHT blockers, such as pumpkin seeds, as a gentler alternative.
The Impact of Ageing
Hair quality and density naturally decline as part of the ageing process, independent of hormonal changes. Kingsley observes that most people will not have the same hair density in their 60s or 70s as they did in their 20s. The extent of this change varies significantly between individuals and is influenced by a mix of genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle.
Because the scalp ages similarly to facial skin, maintaining hair health in later years requires a focus on hydration and gentle cleansing to support the aging follicle.
Nutrition, Gut Health, and Inflammation
Dietary deficiencies can trigger hair shedding by creating systemic inflammation. Suzanne Cooper argues that food should be the primary area of investigation when hair loss occurs, as the correct diet can balance hormones and improve gut health.
Cooper specifically highlights the role of anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), which is found in leafy greens like kale and spinach. According to Cooper, reducing inflammation in the blood is critical because inflammation can drive hair into the shedding phase.
Genetic Pattern Loss vs. Telogen Effluvium
Trichologists distinguish between permanent genetic loss and temporary shedding. Kingsley identifies two primary categories of hair loss seen in clinics:
- Pattern Hair Loss: Both male and female pattern baldness are largely genetic and progressive.
- Telogen Effluvium (TE): This occurs when the body responds to internal stressors, such as severe illness, thyroid dysfunction, or nutritional gaps.
Kingsley notes that Telogen Effluvium is not permanent. Once the underlying trigger—whether it be a medical condition or a deficiency—is identified and addressed, the shedding typically stops.
Comparison of Hair Loss Types
| Type of Loss | Primary Cause | Nature of Loss | Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pattern Loss | Genetics / DHT | Progressive thinning | Long-term management |
| Telogen Effluvium | Stress / Illness / Nutrition | Sudden shedding | Reversible once trigger is removed |
| Menopausal Loss | Oestrogen drop / DHT sensitivity | Finer strands / Shedding | Manageable via hormone/DHT support |
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