Science Behind Hair Growth: Understanding The Causes of Hair Loss

Hair growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormones, and overall health. Understanding the science behind hair growth can help us better understand the causes of hair loss and find ways to promote healthy hair growth. In this blog post, we will explore the different stages of hair growth, the role of hormones and genetics in hair loss, and strategies for promoting healthy hair growth.

Science Behind Hair Growth

The science behind hair growth involves a complex interplay of genetics, hormones, and overall health. The hair growth process can be divided into three main stages: the anagen phase, the catagen phase, and the telogen phase.

The anagen phase is when the hair actively grows from the follicle. During this phase, cells in the hair follicle divide rapidly, and the hair shaft is pushed up and out of the scalp. This phase can last several years and be influenced by genetics and hormonal changes.

The catagen phase is a brief period when hair growth slows down and the hair follicle shrinks. This phase lasts for about 2-3 weeks.

The telogen phase is when the hair stops growing and eventually falls out. During this phase, the hair follicle remains dormant for several weeks before the cycle begins again.

Understanding the causes of hair loss

Hair loss often occurs during the telogen phase. However, some things can cause it to happen during the anagen phase or even the catagen phase.

You should be concerned if you notice that you are losing hair from your head, eyebrows, or eyelashes before it has reached the telogen stage. Thinning occurring during this stage is more likely a normal part of ageing and not unusual. About 50% of men and women begin noticing hair loss in their late 20s and early 30s.

Cause #1: Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes can cause hair loss during the anagen phase. These changes are potentially reversible, so if your hair loss seems to be triggered by hormonal changes, it may be possible to reverse. For example, hormone levels often fluctuate during pregnancy or with menopause. Androgens play a role in the growth of body hair and hair on the head in both women and men.

Cause #2: Genetics

Although hair loss during the anagen (growth) phase is very common, it is more often caused by genetics than hormonal changes. This is because the hair follicle contains very little DNA and therefore doesn’t contain enough information for genetic testing to be possible. However, some specific gene mutations can change hair growth, causing hair loss during the anagen phase, even if hormones are not a factor. These mutations can cause partial alopecia or other hair loss conditions, such as sparse and thinning hair in women.

Cause #3: Iron deficiency

There are higher chances that may cause iron deficiency. This is because your body uses iron to help produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Without enough oxygen, your body can’t produce the energy it needs, and your hair follicles can fall out.

Cause 4: Over-the-counter drugs

Mild hair loss due to drug side effects can start as early as the anagen (growth) phase of your hair cycle. Drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and aspirin all interact with the body’s system for managing iron and can cause your body to produce more than normal. This is called iron overload, and it can cause hair loss during the anagen phase.

Cause 5: Scalp injuries

Hair loss during the anagen phase can also be caused by physical scalp trauma, such as burns and lacerations. These injuries can disrupt the hair growth cycle, causing hair loss in the anagen phase.

Strategies for promoting healthy hair growth

If you are concerned that you are losing your hair during the anagen phase, the following are the things you can follow to promote healthy hair growth: 

Learn about hair growth

It can be helpful to understand the science behind hair growth so that you can better understand how your body is changing. This way, you’ll be able to identify whether the hair loss occurs during the anagen phase instead of a later stage. Knowing the causes of hair loss and understanding your body makes it easier to make positive changes.

Improve your diet and increase iron intake

Iron deficiency accounts for most cases of hair loss caused by nutritional factors. If your body isn’t getting enough iron, it can’t produce enough red blood cells to carry oxygen. Without oxygen, your body can’t produce the energy it needs to keep your hair growing.

Exercise and keep your stress levels low

Exercising regularly can reduce stress, which can hinder hair growth. Stress may also cause your adrenal glands to produce excessive amounts of cortisol, a hormone that can hurt the body’s entire system. Deficiencies of this hormone have been linked to hair loss in women.

Consider getting a hair transplant

If you have tried your best to make healthy lifestyle changes and still find yourself with hair loss, hair restoration surgery may be an option.

Avoid harmful scalp conditions like seborrhea

As mentioned earlier in the article, your scalp produces sebum which contains natural skin oils and natural antibiotics that keep it healthy. However, it’s also possible that you may have a condition called seborrhea which can irritate the scalp, causing excessive oil production.

Conclusion

Hair growth is a complex process that is influenced by a variety of factors. Understanding the science behind hair growth can help us better understand the causes of hair loss and find ways to promote healthy hair growth. Some common causes of hair loss include genetics, hormonal changes, and poor overall health. After visiting the lady’s beauty parlour, you may get a massage for your scalp. It improves your hair growth. Further, for different beautician services, you can visit VLCC International. 

To promote healthy hair growth, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a nutritious diet. And use hair products that are gentle on the hair and scalp. Additionally, consulting with a dermatologist or trichologist can help identify the underlying cause of hair loss and recommend appropriate treatment options.