The five most common causes of hair loss

PROMOTION

Hair loss in men we expect. Hair loss in women not so much, but it's a lot more common than we think. Hair can make us feel like a million dollars, and to also make us want to hide our head under a paper bag. Although hair can be seen as a superficial thing, I often find that when done properly, hair can not only be an extreme confidence-builder, but it can also empower us, leading to the internal confidence we all need and look for.

Believe it or not, our bodies need to effectively absorb essential nutrients to support healthy hair, and there are many reasons why we are not getting these nutrients. Medical, emotional and lifestyle conditions are just some of the factors that can contribute.

If you are experiencing hair loss, here are five possible reasons why.

• Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes are high on the list of reasons for hair loss. In layman terms, we are talking about menopause, thyroid issues, autoimmune system changes and polycystic ovary syndrome.

• Contraceptive pill 

This is probably the most common form of contraception out there, with over 300, 000 Irish women currently on it. However, what you might not know is that it contains a mixture of progestin and estrogen which occasionally can affect healthy hair growth.

• Age

This one is depressing and completely unavoidable. In our 20s and 30s we have around 615 hair follicles per square centimeter, but by the time we turn 50 that number falls to 485, and by the time we are 80, it falls to 435. On top of the reduction in follicles per square cm, each hair also becomes thinner, so the natural volume is reduced.

• Stress

There is actually a medical explanation for this one. Every time your body gets stressed out, your adrenal gland produces more adrenaline, which can lead to an increase in the production of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. So if you do not have enough hormones to counter-balance this, it can lead to hair loss.

• Poor Diet 

Because the hair follicle is the last tissues to receive nutritional substances, it is essential to have a healthy diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Otherwise, long-term deficiencies may lead to premature hair loss.

I can certainly relate to a few of these; time to start eating better! Which one can you relate to?

Brought to you by Viviscal. 

If your confidence is suffering because of hair loss, here's your chance to win the Ultimate Hair Saviour Kit from Viviscal worth €400! Just head on over to our special competition page to enter.