Hair is made of a protein called keratin and is produced in hair follicles in the outer layer of our skin. The hair that you can see is actually made of dead keratin cells. Most adults shed 50-100 hairs a day. This usually doesn’t cause noticeable thinning because new hair is growing at the same time. Each follicle has it’s own life cycle which is influenced by age and variety of other factors. Hair loss occurs when this cycle is disrupted or the follicle is destroyed. Although the exact cause of hair loss is not fully understood, it’s usually related to one or more of these factors:
- Heredity – The most common cause of hair loss is a condition called male-pattern baldness. Your family history can predict the pattern of hair loss including a receding hairline or bald spot. Heredity also affects the age at which you begin to lose hair, the rate of hair loss, and the extent of baldness. Women can also be affected by pattern baldness but it is most common in men.
- Hormonal changes – Hormonal changes and imbalances can cause hair loss, such as abnormal levels of androgens.Thyroid problems can also cause hair loss.
- Autoimmune disease – In alopecia areata, the immune system attacks the hair follicles causing hair loss. In most cases, the hair will grow back.
- Infection – Infections, such as ringworm, can invade the skin and scalp causing hair loss. However once the infection is treated, the hair can grow back.
- Medications – Certain medications may cause hair loss including those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure.
What increases your risk of hair loss?
- Age
- Family history
- Poor nutrition
- Certain medical conditions
- Stress
If you are thinking about a permanent solution for your hair loss, no matter what the cause, our board-certified surgeons can help restore your hair. Call 678-691-0880 today to schedule your consultation.