Baldness, medically known as alopecia, is the partial or complete absence of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows. It can affect both men and women and is influenced by various factors:
- Genetics: The most common cause of baldness is genetic predisposition. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is hereditary and occurs due to the influence of androgens, which are hormones that regulate hair growth. In men, this typically results in a receding hairline and thinning crown, while women usually experience diffuse thinning across the scalp.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, such as those experienced during pregnancy, menopause, or due to thyroid disorders, can contribute to hair loss. In men, an overabundance of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can shrink hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles, can cause patchy hair loss. Other conditions like scalp infections, such as ringworm, or diseases like lupus, can also result in baldness.
- Medications and Treatments: Certain medications used to treat conditions like cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss as a side effect. Chemotherapy, in particular, targets rapidly dividing cells, including those in hair follicles, leading to significant hair loss.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet lacking in essential nutrients such as iron, protein, and vitamins (especially vitamin D and B vitamins) can lead to hair thinning and loss. Poor nutrition affects hair health, making it weak and prone to falling out.
- Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hair loss conditions such as telogen effluvium, where a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting phase, causing hair to fall out more easily. Other lifestyle factors, such as excessive hair styling, the use of harsh chemicals, and poor scalp hygiene, can also contribute to hair loss.
- Aging: As people age, the rate of hair growth slows down, and hair follicles shrink, leading to thinner, finer hair and, eventually, baldness.