Causes of hair loss: what can you do if your hair is thinning?

 Hair loss… we all know it. You’re in the shower and suddenly see a clump of hair in the drain. Or you comb your hair and think: "Where did all this hair come from?" Don't panic. Hair loss is normal, but sometimes it can become a bit too much. It's important to understand the cause of thinning hair to find an appropriate treatment. 

What is hair loss?

Everyone loses 50 to 120 hairs daily, which is completely normal. But if you notice your hair thinning, falling out faster, or developing bald spots, something else might be going on. This can be caused by stress, hormones, or even a lack of essential nutrients. Hair loss isn't harmful, but it often affects your self-image. But don't worry, we're happy to help you make your hair healthy again.

Hair loss in men and women

In men, baldness often begins at the temples and crown. The hair thins and slowly recedes. 

In women, hair loss is usually less visible; the hair mainly thins at the top of the head, but true bald spots are less common in women. 

What are the causes of hair loss?

Genetic predisposition

Sometimes it's just in the family. This is called androgenic alopecia, and it means your hair follicles are more sensitive to certain hormones, causing them to shrink faster and hair to thin.

Stress and hormonal changes
Are you under a lot of stress? Your body may react by making your hair fall out faster. Changes such as pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal medication can also play a role.

Nutritional deficiency
Your hair needs nourishment. Deficiencies in iron, zinc, vitamin D, and proteins can significantly disrupt hair growth. Good excuse to add some extra vegetables and nuts to your menu. 

Medical conditions and medication
Diseases such as thyroid problems or side effects of medications (like chemotherapy) can lead to excessive hair loss.

Poor hair care
Excessive use of heat, such as a hairdryer or straightener, tight hairstyles like a slick back or ponytail, and aggressive shampoos with sulfates can weaken and break your hair.

Hair pulling (Trichotillomania) 

Excessive use of heat, such as a hairdryer or straightener, tight hairstyles like a slick back or ponytail, and aggressive shampoos with sulfates can weaken and break your hair.

Aging

As we age, our hair growth slows down and thins. But with proper care, you can keep your hair strong and healthy.

What can you do yourself against hair loss?

• Go for a healthy, iron-rich diet.
  Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss. Eat foods like spinach, nuts, and eggs to strengthen your hair from within.
  
• Check your medication use.
  Certain medications can cause hair loss, including blood pressure reducers, antidepressants, and hormone medication. If you notice your hair thinning after starting a medication, discuss this with your doctor. 
  
• Stop smoking and reduce stress

Smoking reduces blood flow to your hair follicles, and stress can cause hair loss. Time for a relaxation moment. 

• Avoid aggressive shampoos
  Choose mild, nourishing hair products. Shampoo without sulfates and parabens.
  
• Avoid heat and protect your hair
  Avoid using heat styling tools such as a hairdryer and a straightener.
  
• Stop with tight hairstyles
  A too-tight ponytail or bun can damage your hair and worsen hair loss. Opt instead for a loose and natural look.
  
• Avoid the sun
  Apply sunscreen to bald spots and/or wear a hat.
  
• If hair loss doesn't stop, consider wearing a hairpiece or a wig. 

When should you see a doctor?

Hair loss can be very bothersome, but in most cases, seeing a doctor isn't necessary. Unless:

• You are still young and suffer a lot from it
• You become insecure and unhappy due to your hair loss
• You suddenly develop bald patches on your head, beard, and/or eyebrows
• You are concerned about your hair loss 

Myths about hair loss, what's true?  

“Hair loss cannot be stopped.”

Fortunately not true. With proper care and natural products, you can often reduce hair loss and support hair growth. In addition, there are options like hair transplants, wearing a hairpiece, or a wig. 

“Hair loss is caused by wrong shampoo/conditioner”

Hair doesn't suddenly fall out because you switched shampoos. The use of hair care products usually has nothing to do with 'abnormal hair loss'. If you think your hair is becoming brittle due to shampoo and/or conditioner, use a shampoo without parabens and sulfates or ask an expert for help. 

“Washing too often makes you bald.”

Not true. Your hair doesn't fall out because you wash it, but you see the hairs that were already loose anyway. Do you want to cleanse mildly? Choose a natural shampoo without aggressive cleansing agents.

Conclusion, give your hair some love!

Hair loss can be annoying, but fortunately, there are many natural ways to make your hair healthy and strong again. Do you want to take good care of your hair and contribute to a better environment? Try a Shampoo Bar that suits your hair type. This way you give your hair the care it deserves in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way! 

Which Shampoo Bar suits your hair? Discover it here!