Hair Loss: Causes,
Treatment & Prevention
Hair loss affects millions of people regardless of age or gender. Losing a few strands daily is normal — but excessive shedding or noticeable thinning can signal something worth looking into.
What Exactly Is Hair Loss?
Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, refers to excessive shedding or thinning of hair from the scalp. It’s normal to lose 50–100 hairs a day as part of the natural growth cycle — but when shedding exceeds that, or regrowth slows significantly, visible thinning or bald patches can appear.
Anagen
Growth phase, lasting 2–7 years. 85–90% of hair is here at any time.
Catagen
A brief 2–3 week transition as the follicle shrinks.
Telogen
A 2–4 month resting phase before the strand naturally sheds.
The 5 Types of Hair Loss
Unlike acne, hair loss doesn’t sit on a mild-to-severe scale — it ranges from temporary and reversible to permanent. The scale below reflects that.
Telogen Effluvium
Temporary shedding triggered by illness, surgery, stress, childbirth, rapid weight loss, or high fever. Usually resolves once the trigger passes.
Traction Alopecia
Caused by prolonged tension from tight ponytails, braids, buns, or extensions. Reversible if caught early; can become permanent with continued strain.
Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)
The most common type. In men: receding hairline, crown thinning. In women: widening part line, diffuse thinning. Progressive without treatment.
Alopecia Areata
An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing round or oval bald patches — can appear on the scalp, beard, eyebrows, or body.
Scarring Alopecia
Rare and the most serious — inflammation permanently damages follicles. Irreversible if not treated promptly.
What to Watch For — and Who’s at Risk
Common symptoms
- Increased hair shedding
- Widening hair part
- Receding hairline
- Thinning at the crown
- Bald patches or breakage
- Reduced volume, visible scalp
Who’s more at risk
- Family history of baldness
- Adults over 30
- Women post-pregnancy or menopause
- People with hormonal disorders
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Prolonged stress
What Causes Hair Loss
Genetics
Family history is a leading cause of male and female pattern hair loss.
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid disorders, and PCOS can all disrupt hair growth.
Nutritional deficiencies
Low iron, vitamin D, zinc, B12, or protein can impair healthy hair growth.
Stress
Physical or emotional stress can interrupt the growth cycle, increasing shedding.
Medical conditions
Thyroid disorders, autoimmune disease, scalp infections, and chronic illness can all contribute.
Medications
Certain drugs for cancer, blood pressure, depression, or blood thinning list hair loss as a side effect.
How Hair Loss Is Diagnosed
A dermatologist typically evaluates through a combination of the following:
Medical history
Scalp examination
Hair pull test
Dermoscopy (scalp analysis)
Blood investigations, if indicated
Scalp biopsy, in select cases
How Hair Loss Is Treated
Treatment is personalized based on the type and severity of hair loss — the earlier it’s addressed, the better the results tend to be.
Medical options
Available under a dermatologist’s care at our clinic
- Topical/oral medications — slow loss, support regrowth
- PRP therapy — the patient’s own platelet-rich plasma, injected to support follicle health
- LLLT — light-based stimulation of hair follicles
- Hair transplant — relocating healthy follicles for advanced pattern baldness
- Treating underlying conditions — thyroid, hormonal, or nutritional correction
Home care
A daily routine to support stronger hair
- Wash your scalp regularly with a suitable shampoo
- Eat a protein-rich, balanced diet
- Stay hydrated and massage your scalp gently
- Protect hair from excessive heat
- Avoid tight hairstyles and crash dieting
Simple Ways to Reduce Risk
Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Manage stress through exercise or relaxation techniques.
Treat dandruff or scalp conditions promptly.
Avoid unnecessary chemical treatments.
Protect your scalp from prolonged sun exposure.
Consult a dermatologist if thinning persists.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
If you notice any of the signs below, it’s time to get evaluated:
- Sudden hair loss or bald patches
- Thinning lasting more than a few months
- Shedding after illness or pregnancy that doesn’t improve
- Scalp redness, itching, or pain
- Hair loss alongside weight changes or irregular periods
Frequently Asked Questions
How much hair loss is normal?
Most people shed 50–100 hairs a day as part of the normal growth cycle.
Can stress cause hair loss?
Yes — significant stress can trigger temporary shedding, known as telogen effluvium.
Is hair loss permanent?
Not always. Some types are reversible; others, like scarring alopecia, may be long-lasting without treatment.
Does PRP help with hair loss?
It may help some individuals with specific types. Results vary — a dermatologist can advise if it’s right for you.
Can vitamins stop hair loss?
Supplementation helps when hair loss is tied to a diagnosed deficiency, not otherwise.
Get Your Hair Loss Assessed at Rejuvenare Dermatology
Every case is different, and the fastest path to results is a plan built around your hair type, scalp condition, and root cause. Dr. Shobhita Gupta and team offer personalized, evidence-based hair loss treatment at our Gurugram clinic.
- Sector-87, SilverStreak Multispecialty Hospital, Near Sapphire 90 Mall, Gurugram
- Call or WhatsApp: +91 92540 72619