Noticing more hair in your brush or shower drain can be concerning. While some hair shedding is normal, persistent shedding, thinning, a widening part, or noticeable hair loss may warrant an evaluation.
Hair loss can have many causes, and the right treatment depends on identifying what’s causing it.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can happen for many reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Genetics — hereditary hair loss is one of the most common causes of gradual thinning.
- Stress or illness — significant physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, or major weight loss can trigger increased shedding.
- Hormonal changes — pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can affect the hair-growth cycle.
- Nutrition — not getting enough calories, protein, iron, or other essential nutrients can contribute to hair loss.
- Medications — certain medications can cause increased shedding as a side effect.
- Autoimmune conditions — conditions such as alopecia areata can cause sudden or patchy hair loss.
- Hair styling practices — repeated pulling or tension from tight hairstyles, extensions, or braids can contribute to hair loss.
Sometimes, more than one factor contributes to hair loss.
Signs You May Be Experiencing Hair Loss
Hair loss doesn’t always result in a bald spot. Early signs can include:
- Increased shedding
- A widening part
- A thinner ponytail
- More visible scalp
- Thinning on the top of the scalp
- A receding hairline
- Patchy areas of hair loss
When Should You Seek Help?
Consider getting it checked out if your hair loss is sudden, persistent, progressive, or patchy, or if you experience scalp itching, redness, scaling, burning, or pain.
Identifying the cause is important because different types of hair loss may require different treatments.
Hair Loss Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and cause of hair loss. Depending on the individual, options may include minoxidil, prescription medications such as finasteride, and hair growth supplements such as Nutrafol or Viviscal PRO.
Treatment may also involve addressing nutritional, hormonal, medication-related, or other underlying factors.
Because hair grows slowly, treatment generally takes months rather than weeks to show noticeable results.
Hair Loss Treatment in Buffalo, NY
At the Neiman Dermatology Building in Buffalo, NY, we have extensive experience evaluating hair loss and hair thinning in both women and men. We can help identify potential causes of hair loss and discuss treatment options based on your individual needs and goals.
If you’ve noticed increased shedding, thinning, a widening part, or a receding hairline, schedule an appointment today.
