10 Surprising Causes of Hair Loss You Didn’t Know About

• March 20, 2024
• Crown Clinic

Last updated on March 13, 2024

Hair loss, a condition that affects up to one in every two men over 40 and 49% of women worldwide, is often attributed to genetics, ageing, or hormonal imbalances. While most of us know female pattern hair loss and male pattern baldness well and these factors certainly play a role, there are lesser-known contributors to thinning hair and hair loss that may surprise you.

Exploring these unexpected causes is crucial for early detection and prevention, ultimately leading to healthier, fuller hair. So, with the help of our hair loss clinics in Sydney, Campbelltown and Melbourne, let’s look at 10 surprising causes of hair loss woes.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones wield significant influence over our bodies, including impacting the health of our hair follicles. While fluctuations in testosterone and oestrogen are commonly associated with hair loss like telogen effluvium, lesser-known hormonal factors like thyroid imbalances or adrenal gland dysfunction can also contribute to hair loss. Managing these imbalances through medication, lifestyle changes, or proven hair loss treatments is key to preserving your locks.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

Our hair thrives on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Surprisingly, deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and biotin can lead to hair loss. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods and supplements into your diet can help combat this issue and promote healthier hair growth.

3. Environmental Factors

Pollution, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions can wreak havoc on our hair follicles, leading to increased shedding and breakage. Taking steps to shield your hair from these environmental stressors, such as wearing protective styles or using specialised hair products, can help maintain its health and vitality.

4. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications, ranging from antidepressants to cholesterol-lowering drugs, may unexpectedly cause hair loss like telogen effluvium as a side effect. Understanding the mechanisms behind medication-induced hair loss and discussing alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider is essential for minimising this risk.

5. Stress and Emotional Well-being

Stress is a well-known culprit behind hair loss, but its impact on our emotional well-being can also play a significant role. Chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels and lead to telogen effluvium hair thinning or shedding. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or therapy can help preserve your hair and overall well-being.

The images above are displayed with the consent of the patients featured. The results are specific to these individuals and may not represent the outcomes for others. Results can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise.

6. Hairstyling Practices

While styling your hair can enhance its appearance, excessive heat styling, tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments can damage the hair shaft and contribute to breakage and hair loss. Traction alopecia, for example, is caused by putting your hair into very tight styles. Embracing gentler styling practices and giving your hair regular breaks from styling can promote healthier, more resilient strands.

7. Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata can trigger sudden hair loss by causing the immune system to attack hair follicles. Recognising the signs of autoimmune-related hair loss and seeking medical attention promptly is crucial for managing this condition effectively.

8. Sleeping Habits

Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including hair growth and regeneration. Surprisingly, irregular sleep patterns or sleep deprivation can disrupt the body’s natural hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding. Prioritising good sleep hygiene and establishing consistent sleep routines can help stimulate hair growth and maintain vibrant, healthy hair.

9. Genetics and Epigenetics

While genetic predisposition to hair loss (called androgenetic alopecia) is well-known when it comes to male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss, emerging research suggests that environmental factors and lifestyle choices can also influence gene expression related to hair health. So we can’t blame it all on hereditary hair loss! Understanding these epigenetic factors and adopting personalised approaches to hair care can mitigate the effects of genetic hair loss.

10. Lifestyle Choices

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor dietary habits can all impact hair health and contribute to hair loss over time. Making healthier lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and adopting a balanced diet, can help stimulate hair growth and reduce the risks of losing hair.

As you can see, hair loss is a multifaceted issue with a myriad of contributing factors beyond the commonly recognised ones like hereditary hair loss. By exploring these surprising causes and taking proactive steps to address them, you can preserve the health and vibrancy of your hair for years to come.

Remember, early detection and prevention are key, so listen to your body and seek professional guidance if you notice any changes in your hair.

Choose Crown Clinic for Personalised Hair Loss Treatments

If you need help on how to stop thinning hair and provide solutions to different causes of hair loss, we can help you. At Crown Clinic, we understand the impact of hair loss and are dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for both male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness, as well as other hair loss conditions.

Our experienced team can guide you through a tailored treatment plan that encompasses both hair restoration techniques and stress management strategies.

By combining advanced hair restoration methods with holistic approaches to stress reduction, we aim to address the root causes of hair loss and promote a healthier scalp environment.

Contact us for a personalised consultation and take the first step toward regaining your confidence and a fuller head of hair.

How to schedule a consultation

To schedule a consultation at our Sydney, Campbelltown or Melbourne clinic, please contact us at 02 9134 4788 or book online via our website.
Should you require more information before making an appointment, please use our live chat available on our website. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have.

Melbourne Clinic

Level 1, 9 Claremont St.
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Melbourne

Sydney CBD Clinic

Level 14/187 Macquarie St
Sydney, NSW, 2000

Campbelltown Clinic

Level 1, 251 Queen Street
Campbelltown NSW 25601

FAQs

How do hormonal imbalances contribute to hair loss, and what can be done to manage them?

Hormonal imbalances affect hair follicle health and can cause telogen effluvium or alopecia areata (patchy hair loss). Managing them and preventing further hair loss may involve hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments.

Can environmental factors really affect hair health, and if so, how can we protect our hair?

Yes, pollutants and UV radiation can damage hair. Protecting hair with hats, using sulphate-free products, and rinsing hair after swimming can help. It’s also a good idea to avoid using heat styling frequently and to avoid tight hairstyles that can cause traction alopecia.

Are there specific medications known to cause hair loss, and what alternatives are available?

Certain medications, like antidepressants and blood thinners, can cause hair loss. Consulting healthcare professionals for alternatives is advisable.

How does stress impact hair loss, and what are some effective stress-reduction strategies for maintaining healthy hair?

Stress disrupts hair growth cycles which can lead to thinning hair, unhealthy hair follicles, and a condition known as alopecia areata (patchy hair loss). Stress-reduction strategies like meditation, exercise, and therapy can promote hair health.

How do I find the best clinic for hair loss treatments?

To find the best clinic for hair loss treatments, prioritise safety, effectiveness, and personalised care. Look for a clinic like Crown Hair that puts patients and their individual needs first. We have clinics in Sydney and Melbourne, and our staff takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns and collaborates with them to find the right treatment. This commitment to patient-centred care, combined with a focus on safety and efficacy, makes Crown Hair a trusted choice for addressing hair loss concerns.

This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.