Hair shedding when running fingers through it is common. Some shedding is normal, part of the hair’s natural growth cycle. Understanding this helps distinguish routine shedding from a concern.
The Basics of Hair Shedding
Hair growth follows a cyclical pattern with three phases: anagen (active growth, 2-7 years), catagen (transitional, 10 days), and telogen (resting, 3 months, old hair sheds as new hair grows).
Shedding 50 to 100 hairs daily is normal. However, if shedding seems significantly more than usual, or if hair density noticeably changes, it could indicate an underlying issue.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men
Androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, is a prevalent reason for hair loss in men. This condition has a genetic predisposition and involves hair follicles becoming sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This sensitivity causes follicles to shrink, producing shorter, finer hairs, leading to a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
Telogen effluvium is temporary, causing excessive hair shedding. This hair loss occurs a few months after a major physical or emotional stressor, such as severe illness, surgery, or psychological stress. Medications, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic illnesses can also trigger telogen effluvium by prematurely pushing hairs into the resting (telogen) phase. The hair loss is diffuse across the scalp and resolves once the underlying cause is addressed.
Alopecia areata presents as distinct, smooth, round patches of hair loss. This autoimmune disorder causes the body’s immune system to attack hair follicles. It is more common in younger individuals; genetic factors and environmental triggers contribute.
Other causes of hair loss include fungal infections of the scalp, like tinea capitis, causing scaly, inflamed patches and localized hair loss. Traction alopecia results from tension on hair follicles due to tight hairstyles, such as braids or ponytails, causing damage and hair loss along the hairline. Medical conditions, including thyroid disorders, and medication side effects can also contribute to hair thinning or loss.
Recognizing When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional attention if you observe a sudden increase in hair shedding, or if hair loss appears in distinct patches. Other signs include persistent scalp itching, pain, redness, or scaly patches, which may indicate a skin condition or infection. Systemic symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or new skin rashes also warrant medical evaluation for broader health issues.
A healthcare professional, often a dermatologist, can assess the cause of hair loss. During a consultation, the doctor takes a medical history, including diet, lifestyle, and medications. A physical examination of the scalp and hair is performed. Depending on findings, diagnostic tests like blood tests may be recommended. A scalp biopsy may confirm a diagnosis.
Effective Approaches to Hair Loss Management
Several approaches manage male hair loss, from topical solutions to surgical procedures, with the best option depending on the cause. Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical solution, is widely used. It widens blood vessels, increasing blood flow to hair follicles and extending the anagen phase. Minoxidil stimulates hair regrowth and slows hair loss.
Finasteride, an oral prescription medication, inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride halts further hair loss and can promote new hair growth. Both minoxidil and finasteride require consistent use for effects.
Lifestyle adjustments support hair health. Managing stress can help, as high stress levels may contribute to shedding. A balanced diet provides nutrients for healthy hair growth. Gentle hair care minimizes damage and breakage.
For advanced cases or those unresponsive to conventional treatments, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy or hair transplantation are options. PRP therapy involves drawing blood, then injecting the plasma into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure where hair follicles are moved. Consult a dermatologist or hair loss specialist to discuss the appropriate treatment plan.