It’s typical to shed between 50 and 100 hair strands per day, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, so losing a few hairs per day is nothing to worry about.
However, excessive hair loss could be a sign of underlying disorders. Hair loss is alarming and requires medical treatment, as opposed to hair shedding. To help you distinguish between the two, we’ve put together thorough information on hair loss vs. hair fall.
Hair Fall Vs Hair Loss
Hair fall and hair loss are two commonly used terms that refer to the shedding of hair. While hair fall is a natural phenomenon and a part of our everyday life, hair loss can be a cause for concern.
Hair fall, also known as telogen effluvium, occurs when hair reaches the end of its growth cycle and falls out, making it a normal occurrence. You may notice a few strands of hair on your pillow when you wake up, which is generally nothing to worry about.
If you experience excessive hair fall, it may be an indication of an underlying issue.
To maintain healthy hair, it is important to follow a good and balanced diet and reduce anxiety and stress levels.
Hair fall can be associated with weakened hair, which can be caused by various factors such as chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, genetics, and medical conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, hypertension, and anxiety.
Environmental factors like pollution can also contribute to hair fall. While normal hair fall is not a cause for concern, excessive hair loss should not be ignored.
It is crucial to understand that hair-related problems require proper healthcare attention, and if you notice visible hair loss on your scalp, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Causes Of Hair Loss And Hair Fall
Hair loss and hair fall are common concerns that can be caused by a range of factors. These may include genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, stress, certain medical conditions, and excessive styling or treatments that damage the hair follicles.
Family History
- Genetic factors play a significant role,
- Inherited patterns of hair loss can be seen in families.
Autoimmune Disorder
- Conditions like alopecia areata,
- The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Hormonal Imbalance
- Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause,
- Can trigger temporary or permanent hair loss.
Reaction to Drugs
- Certain medications like chemotherapy drugs,
- Can cause hair loss as a side effect in some individuals.
Stress
- High levels of stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle,
- Leading to increased hair shedding and temporary hair loss.
Age
- As individuals age, hair follicles gradually shrink and produce thinner strands,
- Resulting in overall hair thinning and increased hair fall.
Sudden Weight Loss
- Abrupt and significant weight loss can shock the body,
- Leading to temporary hair shedding as the body reallocates resources.
Nutritional Imbalance
- Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as iron, vitamins, and proteins,
- Can weaken the hair follicles, causing hair to become brittle and fall out more easily.
How to Understand If It’s Hair Fall and Not Loss
Hair fall and hair loss may appear similar, but there are significant differences between the two. While both can be considered normal or abnormal, understanding their distinctions is crucial.
Hair growth typically follows a cycle, where hair grows for about three to four years before entering a regression phase. During this regression phase, the hair can fall out at any time within the subsequent three months.
However, it’s important to note that new hair strands continuously replace the ones that are shed, ensuring a healthy hair growth cycle.
Hair fall refers to the natural shedding of hair that occurs as part of this cycle. On an average day, it is considered normal to lose up to 100 strands of hair. However, if the count exceeds 100 strands, it may be indicative of excessive hair fall.
If you consistently notice a higher-than-normal hair fall count, it is advisable to seek medical advice from a doctor or a dermatologist to identify and address the underlying cause.
On the other hand, hair loss goes beyond the normal hair fall process. Hair loss refers to a significant and noticeable reduction in hair density or bald patches.
How Does The Expert Distinguish Between The Two?
When it comes to distinguishing between hair fall and hair loss, a dermatologist plays a crucial role in evaluating the condition and providing appropriate guidance.
One common sign of hair loss is a gradual thinning on the top of the head. This type of hair loss, known as male or female pattern baldness, tends to occur over time and can be easily identified by a healthcare professional.
Another significant indication of hair loss is the presence of bald patches on the scalp. These patches can be localized or spread across the scalp, leading to noticeable hair thinning and loss in specific areas.
In more severe cases, hair loss can extend beyond the scalp and result in full-body hair loss.
Hair fall, on the other hand, is often temporary and doesn’t lead to baldness or significant hair thinning. It is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, and lost hair usually regrows within a few months.
If a person experiences a substantial loss of hair that doesn’t regrow, it is a strong indication of hair loss rather than typical hair fall.
During a medical evaluation, a dermatologist will examine the scalp and hair to determine the cause or causes of hair loss. They may consider factors such as family history, medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or medications.
By identifying the underlying cause, the doctor can provide a more accurate diagnosis. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available for many types of hair loss.
Consulting with a dermatologist is essential to receive a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan based on the specific type and cause of hair loss.
Average Hair Loss In Men And Women
Hair loss is a common concern for both men and women, but there are notable differences in their average experiences. Women tend to lose more hair strands per day than men, often due to factors such as heat styling and frequent hair coloring, which can contribute to increased shedding.
Styling practices alone can cause up to 40% of women to experience additional hair loss. Women are also more susceptible to hormonal imbalances, such as those related to their menstrual cycle and menopause, which can further contribute to hair loss.
On the other hand, men are primarily affected by androgenic alopecia, a condition caused by an excess amount of DHT hormone, leading to a gradual thinning of the hair.
Understanding these distinctions can help individuals better address and manage their specific hair loss concerns.
Treatment For Temporary Hair fall
Hair fall is a common concern that can be effectively addressed through various treatment approaches. From medication and vitamin supplements to adopting gentle styling techniques, there are multiple options available to combat hair fall and promote healthier, stronger hair.
Medication (Minoxidil)
- Minoxidil, a topical medication, promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp and revitalizing hair follicles. Regular application of minoxidil can effectively reduce hair fall and stimulate the regrowth of thicker and healthier hair strands.
Vitamin supplements (Biotin, Iron, Zinc)
- Biotin supplements help strengthen hair strands, prevent breakage, and promote overall hair health and growth.
- Adequate intake of iron and zinc through supplements can address deficiencies that contribute to hair loss, promoting stronger and nourished hair.
Styling technique (Don’t pull your hair)
- Avoid tight hairstyles and excessive pulling or tugging on your hair, as it can lead to hair breakage and traction alopecia.
- Embrace gentle styling techniques and use hair accessories that don’t strain your hair, reducing the risk of hair fall and promoting healthier locks.
When Do You Need A Hair Transplant Surgery?
Transplant surgery is typically needed for individuals who experience specific conditions related to hair loss. Both men and women with well-defined baldness, thinning hair, or limited hair loss resulting from scalp injuries or repeated cosmetic procedures often consider hair restoration surgery.
Additionally, individuals affected by autoimmune diseases that target hair follicles may also opt for transplant surgery. This procedure aims to provide patients with natural-looking results, effectively addressing their hair loss concerns and restoring their confidence.
