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21 Feb 2023

Hair loss

1 mins to read
Hair loss can be permanent or temporary and affects most people at some stage of life, usually as they get older. When it occurs at a younger age or is severe, it is sometimes quite distressing.


  • Hair may fall out in larger than normal quantities, may generally become thinner, may fall out in patches, or may fall out altogether.
  • When it affects men, male pattern baldness tends to start at the temples and top of the head, and may eventually progress to complete baldness of the scalp.
  • Less frequently, women may also be affected by male pattern baldness, in which case it tends to cause hair thinning, rather than a completely bald scalp.
  • Alopecia areata is a condition characterised by circular patches of hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body that may be up to 5 centimetres in diameter. In some cases the hair grows back over weeks or months, but in other people the hairless patches persist for longer.
  • Hair loss may cause some people to become very self-conscious, and can damage self-esteem , especially if it occurs early in life or is severe.
  • Some types of hair loss are permanent, while others are temporary.

Common causes of hair loss include:

  • Hereditary factors, which are responsible for many cases of baldness (especially male pattern baldness, in which testosterone affects the hair follicles).
  • Hormone imbalance. For example, female pattern baldness involves various factors, including an excess of the male hormone testosterone, and consequently often develops after menopause. Other hormonal issues that may be involved in hair loss include thyroid hormone irregularities, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
  • Immune system dysfunction. For example, alopecia areata is caused by an autoimmune disorder.
  • Chemotherapy, oral contraceptive pills, corticosteroids and some other medical treatments can the hair or cause to fall out.
  • Trauma to the hair, which may be caused by pulling on it (e.g. as a nervous or absent-minded habit), rubbing or scratching the scalp, vigorous brushing, wearing tight ponytails or buns, or curling the hair tightly in rollers. The use of harsh chemicals may have a similar effect.
  • Ringworm of the scalp may cause the hair to break close to the scalp in the affected area.
  • Poor nutritional status tends to lead to poor hair health, and may cause hair loss in some cases. Inadequate consumption of protein may be a factor, along with low levels of essential fatty acids, vitamin A, iron, zinc, and antioxidants.

Additionally, a certain degree of hair loss is one of the normal consequences of ageing. Temporary hair loss can also occur during pregnancy, or following surgery or a period of ill health.

  • Treat your hair gently, and avoid using hair dryers and straighteners, harsh chemicals (such as dyes), and heated rollers.
  • Eat a healthy well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and regular serves of protein and carbohydrates. Regular intake of the healthy oils that supply the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (for example nuts, seeds, and fish) are also important.
  • It may be reassuring to remember that many cases of hair loss are temporary.
  • Don’t wear your hair pulled back tightly, and avoid pulling at or twisting your hair.
  • Rosemary is traditionally regarded as a hair and scalp tonic that stimulates hair growth. 

  • If you have excessive hair loss, consult your healthcare professional, who can determine whether it is cause for concern and investigate the reasons behind it. 
  • Prescription drugs are available that may promote hair growth on previously bald areas. Talk to your healthcare professional to determine whether they are suitable for you.

Get free personalised advice from our team of qualified naturopaths here



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