Thinning Hair: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

 ## Thinning hair is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, genders, and races. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices.

**Causes of thinning hair**

* **Genetics:** Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, is the most common cause of thinning hair. It is a hereditary condition that is caused by a sensitivity to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.

* **Hormones:** Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss. This can happen during pregnancy, menopause, and after childbirth. Medical conditions such as thyroid disease and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also cause hair loss.

* **Medical conditions:** Certain medical conditions, such as alopecia areata, can cause hair to fall out in patches. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that attacks hair follicles. Other medical conditions that can cause hair loss include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV/AIDS.

* **Medications:** Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and blood thinners, can cause hair loss as a side effect.

* **Lifestyle choices:** Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, crash dieting, and excessive stress, can also contribute to hair loss.

**Treatments for thinning hair**

There are a variety of treatments available for thinning hair. The best treatment for you will depend on the underlying cause of your hair loss.

* **Medications:** There are two medications that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat male-pattern baldness: minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia). Minoxidil is a topical medication that helps to stimulate hair growth. Finasteride is an oral medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

* **Hair transplant:** A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body to the scalp. Hair transplants can be effective in treating male-pattern baldness, but they can be expensive and time-consuming.

* **Low-level laser therapy:** Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses lasers to stimulate hair growth. LLLT is available as a treatment option at some dermatologists' offices and hair salons.

**Prevention of thinning hair**

There is no guaranteed way to prevent thinning hair, but there are some things you can do to help keep your hair healthy and reduce your risk of hair loss.

* **Eat a healthy diet:** A healthy diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to produce healthy hair. Make sure to eat plenty of protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

* **Manage stress:** Stress can trigger hair loss. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.

* **Avoid smoking:** Smoking damages hair follicles and can lead to hair loss.

* **Use gentle hair care products:** Avoid using harsh shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. These products can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss.

**When to see a doctor**

If you are concerned about thinning hair, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the underlying cause of your hair loss and recommend the best treatment options for you.

Source 😀 bard.google.com