Why Am I Losing So Much Hair?

Why Am I Losing So Much Hair?

Losing up to 100 hairs per day is normal, but excessive or prolonged shedding often signals an underlying cause.
Hair loss can result from genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or medical conditions. Identifying the reason early helps guide the right treatment and prevent further thinning.

Is Hair Loss Always a Problem?

Hair naturally goes through growth and shedding cycles. Daily hair fall is part of this process and does not usually indicate disease.

Concern arises when shedding becomes noticeably heavier, lasts for several months, or is accompanied by visible thinning, bald patches, or changes in hair texture. In these cases, professional evaluation is recommended.

Common Causes of Excessive Hair Loss

Hair loss can affect both men and women, though causes and patterns often differ.

Genetic Hair Loss

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss. In men, it typically starts with temple recession or crown thinning. In women, it presents as diffuse thinning rather than bald patches.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal shifts after childbirth, during menopause, or due to thyroid disorders can disrupt the hair cycle. Once hormone levels stabilize, regrowth often occurs.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin B12, or vitamin D can weaken hair growth. Deficiencies should be confirmed with blood tests before supplementation.

Stress And Illness

Physical or emotional stress may trigger telogen effluvium, a condition where large numbers of hairs enter the resting phase simultaneously. Shedding usually begins weeks after the trigger and is often temporary.

Medications And Medical Conditions

Certain medications and chronic conditions can contribute to hair loss. A medical review helps determine whether treatment adjustments are needed.

Hair And Scalp Care Habits

Frequent heat styling, harsh products, inadequate rinsing, or aggressive brushing can worsen breakage and shedding, especially in already fragile hair.

Hair Loss In Children

Hair loss in children is not normal and should always be evaluated. One common cause is alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that leads to coin-shaped bald patches.

It is not contagious. Early diagnosis improves management and reduces the risk of progression.

Different Types of Hair Loss

Several forms of hair loss exist, each with different causes and treatments:

Male and female pattern hair loss
Alopecia areata
Hair loss related to thyroid disease
Vitamin deficiency–related hair loss
Stress-induced telogen effluvium

Accurate diagnosis is essential, as treatment varies depending on the type.

What Can Help Reduce Hair Loss?

Treatment starts with identifying the cause. A dermatologist can assess scalp health, order tests if needed, and recommend appropriate options.

Supportive care may include:

Correcting nutritional deficiencies
Managing stress and underlying medical conditions
Using gentle, hair-type-appropriate products
Reducing heat and mechanical damage

Hair care products may support hair quality, but they do not replace medical treatment when an underlying cause exists.

When To See A Specialist

If hair loss lasts longer than two to three months, worsens rapidly, or causes visible thinning, professional evaluation is important. Early intervention improves outcomes and may prevent permanent loss.

Frequently Asked Questions