It is normal to lose 50 to 100 strands of hair a day. But it becomes a serious problem when you lose more hair than that and new hair does not grow. From improper skin care to hormonal changes in the body, hair loss can be caused. Here are the main reasons behind this:
Nutritional Deficiency: Proteins, vitamins, and minerals are essential for hair growth. When iron, vitamin D, vitamin B7 (Biotin), and zinc are lacking in the diet, the hair roots become weak and hair starts falling out quickly. Hair loss is more common in people with anemia.
Hormonal changes and thyroid: Hormonal changes in the body can directly affect hair. Severe hair loss is seen in people with thyroid problems and in women with PCOD/PCOS. Also, hair loss can occur due to hormonal changes after pregnancy (Post-pregnancy) and during menopause (Menopause). The cause of male pattern baldness in men is the hormone DHT (Dihydrotestosterone).
Dandruff and fungal infections on the head: When dandruff is excessive on the scalp, it blocks the pores of the hair roots and causes infections. When the head is scratched due to severe itching caused by dandruff, the hair roots are damaged and the hair falls out in large quantities.
Severe mental stress and diseases (Telogen Effluvium): The severe stress we experience can affect the growth phase of the hair. People who have had severe fever (for example, dengue fever, typhoid), COVID, or major surgeries experience severe hair loss after 2-3 months. This is scientifically called telogen effluvium.
Use of chemicals and hard water: Regular hair straightening, bleaching, and using strong hair dyes can damage the natural structure of the hair. Also, washing your hair with hard water that contains chlorine or salt can also cause hair breakage.