Factors That Cause Hair Loss

Hair loss is a common problem that affects approximately 50% of men and 30% of women. For effective treatment, it is essential to first correctly identify the cause of the hair loss.

How Is Hair Loss Diagnosed?

Three fundamental steps are followed for successful hair loss treatment:

1. Detailed patient history: Family history, dietary habits, stress levels, medications being used
2. Comprehensive examination: Scalp analysis, determination of the hair loss pattern
3. Laboratory tests: Blood tests, hormone tests, vitamin and mineral levels

The Main Causes of Hair Loss

1. Genetic Factors (Androgenetic Alopecia)

This is the most common cause of hair loss. In men, it presents as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while in women, it appears as a general thinning and diffuse loss of density.

Symptoms:

• M-shaped recession of the hairline in men
• Noticeable thinning at the crown area
• Widening of the center part in women
• Family history of baldness

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are a significant cause of hair loss. The most commonly seen deficiencies include:

• Iron deficiency: Very common, especially in women; ferritin levels should be checked
• Vitamin D: Deficient in 80% of the population in Turkey
• Vitamin B12: Commonly seen in vegetarians and vegans
• Zinc: Critical for hair tissue repair
• Biotin: Required for keratin production

3. Hormonal Changes

Hormones directly affect the hair growth cycle:

• Thyroid disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss
• PCOS: Hair loss in women due to elevated androgen levels
• Menopause: Estrogen decline leads to hair thinning
• Postpartum: Hormonal changes following pregnancy

4. Stress and Psychological Factors

Acute or chronic stress can cause hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting phase (Telogen Effluvium). This type of shedding typically begins 2 to 3 months after the stressful event.

5. Gut Health

The balance of the gut microbiome affects nutrient absorption and, indirectly, hair health. Intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and dysbiosis have been linked to hair loss.

6. Autoimmune Diseases

Alopecia Areata: Circular patches of hair loss caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles.

7. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can cause hair loss:

• Blood thinners
• Beta blockers
• Antidepressants
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Birth control pills

8. Scalp Diseases

• Seborrheic dermatitis: Occurs alongside flaking and itching
• Psoriasis: Thick, silvery scales on the scalp
• Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles

Treatment Approaches

Hair loss treatment should be personalized according to the underlying cause:

Medical Treatments

• Minoxidil (topical)
• Finasteride (oral, for men)
• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Hormone-regulating treatments

Procedural Treatments

• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
• Mesotherapy
• Low-level laser therapy
• Hair transplantation (permanent solution)

When Should You See a Doctor?

• Losing more than 100 hairs per day
• Intense thinning in specific areas
• Redness or itching on the scalp
• Sudden and severe hair loss
• Visibly thinning hair

Conclusion

Hair loss is a treatable condition. What matters most is an accurate diagnosis and early intervention. At Estetistanbul Medical Center, we protect your hair health with comprehensive hair analysis and personalized treatment plans.