Top 5 causes of hair fall in men

Nowadays, hair fall in men is a common issue worldwide. Excessive hair loss could be a significant concern for many, as it not only affects one’s appearance but also erodes self-confidence. Although it is a natural process, factors like hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors, diet, lifestyle, etc., could influence it. Here are the three major causes that individually or in a combined manner affect hair fall in men :

1. Hormonal imbalance

Androgenetic alopecia

It is the most common cause of hair fall in men, accounting for approximately 95% of the cases. It is caused by the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (commonly known as DHT), a potent form of testosterone that binds to androgen receptors of the hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss.

The hair thinning and loss in such cases mainly affects the front and crown portion of the head, while the receding hairline forming an “M” shape.

2. Autoimmune disorders

This is also a concerning reason that can contribute to hair fall, where our own immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing inflammation and leading to hormonal imbalances. Alopecia areata, being the most common type, causes patchy hair loss on the scalp or body.

3. Stress

Physical or emotional stress can also lead to increased hair fall. Due to the increased production of cortisol during stress, the hair growth cycle gets disrupted. Stress can lead to sudden hair fall that might be accompanied by other symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or fatigue.

4. Family history (Genetics)

If there’s a family history of baldness, the person is more likely to experience hair fall. Genetics can influence the production of hormones (DHT) that can ultimately contribute to hair fall. Genetics has an important role in determining hair growth/loss patterns and susceptibility to hair fall. Inheritance of genes from one generation to another, wherein there is a family history, can increase the risk of hair fall in younger generations. In such cases, hair thinning and loss mainly start at the top and crown of the head.

Interconnection between these three major causes can also be seen in most of the cases and addressing them can help to slow down the hair fall. For instance, stress can increase the production of cortisol, which in turn exacerbates androgenetic alopecia.

5. Poor diet

Additionally, a diet lacking essential nutrients such as iron, zinc and biotin, excessive heat styling or using harsh chemicals frequently can also contribute to or accelerate the rate of hair fall.

Understanding these causes can help men take steps to prevent or slow down hair loss. By addressing the underlying causes and making lifestyle changes, men can promote healthy hair growth and reduce the risk of hair fall. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment before it’s too late.