What is Hair Loss and Why it Happens

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, refers to the partial or complete loss of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body where hair normally grows. It can be temporary or permanent and can affect both men and women. Hair loss can occur for various reasons, including:

• Genetic Factors
• Гормональные изменения
• Medical Conditions
• Physical or Emotional Stress
• Nutritional Deficiencies
• Hairstyling Practices
• Aging

Preventing hair loss often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, proper hair care practices, and sometimes medical intervention. Here are some strategies to help prevent hair loss:

Lifestyle and Hair Care Tips

1. Balanced Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those that support hair health (like iron, zinc, vitamin D, and biotin), can help maintain healthy hair. Foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, and eggs are beneficial.
2. Gentle Hair Care: Avoid excessive brushing, especially when hair is wet, as it is more susceptible to breakage. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle hair gently.
3. Avoid Heat and Chemical Treatments: Limit the use of hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons, and chemical treatments like perms and colorings, which can damage hair and cause it to break or fall out.
4. Scalp Care: Keep the scalp clean and avoid using harsh shampoos that can strip natural oils. Regularly massaging the scalp can improve blood circulation and promote hair growth.

Benefits of Supplements

Certain supplements can support hair health and potentially reduce hair loss, especially if you have nutritional deficiencies. Here are some commonly used supplements and their benefits:

1. Biotin (Vitamin B7): Essential for hair growth and strength. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair thinning and loss.
2. Iron: Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which is a common cause of hair loss, particularly in women. Iron supplements can help if you are diagnosed with an iron deficiency.
3. Витамин D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to hair loss. Supplementing with vitamin D can help maintain hair follicle health.
4. Цинк: Zinc plays a crucial role in hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.
5. Омега-3 жирные кислоты: Found in fish oil, these fatty acids nourish hair, support hair thickening, and reduce inflammation that can lead to hair loss.
6. Коллаген: Collagen supplements can provide amino acids that are necessary for hair growth and help improve hair strength and elasticity.
7. Saw Palmetto: This herbal supplement can help block the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone linked to hair loss, particularly in men.
8. Multivitamins: A good-quality multivitamin can ensure you are getting a balanced intake of essential nutrients that support overall health, including hair health.

Wong, W. W., Derry, S., & Griffiths, C. E. M. (2012). “Evidence-based treatment update: Vitamins, minerals, and supplements for alopecia.” Dermatologic Clinics, 30(1), 157-166.

Rogers, N. E., & Avram, M. R. (2008). “Medical treatments for male and female pattern hair loss.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 59(4), 547-566.

Prie, B. E., Iosif, L., Tivig, I., Panduru, M., & Stoian, I. (2016). “Oxidative stress in androgenetic alopecia.” Journal of Medicine and Life, 9(1), 79-83.

Blume-Peytavi, U., Hillmann, K., Dietz, E., Canfield, D., Garcia Bartels, N., Szepietowski, J. C., & Elsner, P. (2011). “A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of a new nutraceutical supplement in subjects with diffuse hair loss.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 25(10), 1127-1134.