How to Determine What’s Causing Your Hair Loss

You’re suffering from hair loss and you want it to STOP. We know the temptation to want to run for a solution and start treatment immediately. But what we recommend is to first figure out the root cause or potential causes so that you can incorporate a more targeted approach. Here's how to get to the bottom of what's causing your hair loss.

1. Start by Observing the Type of Hair Loss

The pattern and nature of your hair loss can give useful clues:

• Shedding all over the scalp: May indicate telogen effluvium, often caused by stress, illness, or dietary deficiencies.
• Thinning at the crown or hairline: Can be a sign of androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), which is often genetic.
• Thinning at the hairline: Can indicate traction alopecia
• Patchy hair loss: Could suggest alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition.
• Hair breakage (not falling from the root): Usually caused by chemical damage, excessive heat styling, or tight hairstyles.

Start tracking how much hair you're losing, where you're losing it, and when it started. This can help a professional make a more accurate diagnosis.

2. Review Your Recent Life Events

Hair often responds to internal and external stress. Consider:

• Major life changes: Have you recently had surgery, a baby, or an emotionally stressful event?
• Diet: Have you made any significant changes to your diet or developed any eating restrictions?
• Illness or infection: Infections like COVID-19, or even high fevers, can trigger hair shedding.
• Weight loss: Sudden or extreme weight loss is a common cause of temporary hair loss.

Hair tends to react to these events after 2–3 months, so look back a few months when identifying possible causes.

3. Assess Your Hair Care Routine

Sometimes, the issue isn’t internal — it’s what you’re doing to your hair:

• Are you using relaxers, bleach, or harsh dyes?
• Do you wear tight ponytails, braids, or wigs without breaks?
• Are you washing your hair regularly, or are you going too long without cleansing the scalp?
• Do you use excessive heat with no protection?

These habits can lead to traction alopecia, scalp inflammation, or breakage that mimics hair loss.

How often should you wash your hair? Click here to find out

4. Evaluate Your Diet and Nutrition

Hair needs certain nutrients to grow, including:

• Iron
• Zinc
• Vitamin D
• Biotin and other B vitamins
• Protein

A diet low in these nutrients, especially iron and protein, can contribute to hair thinning. If you suspect a deficiency, speak to your doctor about getting a blood test.

Click here for details on the types of blood tests you should get

5. Look Into Your Family History

Genetics play a big role in hair health. If your parents, siblings, or grandparents experienced pattern baldness or thinning at a certain age, it might be hereditary. While you can't change your genes, early intervention with the right care or treatments can slow the progression.

6. Check for Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones have a big impact on hair growth. Consider whether you may be experiencing:

• Postpartum hormonal shifts
• Menopause or perimenopause
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid issues (hypo- or hyperthyroidism)

These conditions can all affect the hair growth cycle. A healthcare provider can perform tests to check for hormonal imbalances.

Click here to learn how hormones can affect your hair texture

7. Is It Medications and Treatments?

Certain medications can trigger hair loss, such as:

• Blood pressure meds
• Antidepressants
• Birth control pills
• Chemotherapy
• Acne treatments like isotretinoin

If your hair loss started after a new medication, bring it up with your doctor. Never stop prescribed medication without medical advice.

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8. Visit a Trichologist or Dermatologist

If you’ve tried to investigate and are still unsure, a professional can help. A trichologist specializes in hair and scalp issues, while a dermatologist can diagnose medical causes. They may examine your scalp, run tests, or take a small biopsy to determine the cause.

In Conclusion

Hair loss is often the result of more than one factor — it could be stress and poor diet, or hormones and harsh styling. The key is to look at your body and habits holistically. Once you know what’s causing the problem, you can take intentional steps to treat it, whether that means adjusting your routine, improving your nutrition, or seek