HI, I am an 18-year-old female who has been having really bad hair loss for the past year or 2 years. I went to the doctor and they said I was fine and it was just genetics. However, thin hair does not run in my family. Up until I was 16, I had very thick, wavy hair. My hair is now so thin that I am afraid of even going out with my friends because it makes me so insecure. Has anyone dealt with this and has tips or any idea what could be causing it?
Hi Bailey
This must be awful for you, you don’t say if you’re on any medication? Have you been doing Exams since you were 16 ie under additional stress?
I lost my hair through Chemo but it’s been very slow to grow back, I’m happy with my wig but my hair certainly looks like it’s never going to be the same again!
I have however recently started a Course of Treatment from the Tricology Range by Philip Kingsley & the difference is very noticeable so l have more faith that it may return.
I think you need to go back to your GP or another one in the Practice & discuss again, perhaps your Mum or an Aunt could go with you, explain the impact it’s having on your life & see if they’ll do a blood test to rule out any underlying cause.
The very best of luck, try not to fiddle with your hair too much or tie it back in a tight band & maybe have it trimmed.
But a return visit to your GP is a must.
Best Wishes
Angela x
Hair loss can result from varied reasons. It may rather be a disease condition or an associated symptom of underlying disease.
Possible causes for hair loss:
1. Hair loss due to deficiencies:
As a part of dieting or taking imbalanced diet sufficient nutrients and minerals are not supplied to the body. This may cause health issues like Anaemia, Vitamin deficiencies, Protein deficiency etc. where hair loss is a common symptom.
Solution - a well balanced diet. As always, eating a balanced diet plentiful in fruits and vegetables as well as lean protein and “good” fats such as avocado and nuts will be good for hair and overall health.
2. Hypothyroidism
Caused by Under active thyroid gland
Do thyroid function test
If any significant variations, have to take treatment.
3. PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, where initial symptoms include hair loss. Associated gynaecological issues may or may not be present. Anovulatory cycles of menstruation, increase in body weight etc. follows later. Should consult gynaecologist.
4. Dandruff - white scales or powder like appearance on scalp
Solution - Anti-dandruff medicines
5. Dry hair
If one is having dry hair by nature or lack of applying oils over head may lead to breakage of hair.
6. Excessive hair styling treatments in beauty parlour will surely damage the hair shaft leaving the hair dry and brittle.
7. Stress and anxiety
As any other disease, stress can aggregate the problem of hair loss. Stress in studies, at work place, in personal or social life etc. may cause hair loss. Even stress related to hair loss can aggrevate the issue.
8. Genetics or autoimmune problems - Due to unknown cause.
9. Side effects of certain medications may result in hair loss.
10. Use of chlorinated or hard water can result in hair loss.
Measures you can follow to reduce hair loss:
1. Ensure intake of a well balanced diet - with green leafy vegetables, lean protein, beans, nuts, egg, carrot etc. Reduce intake of artificial sweetners and food items
2. Ensure scalp hygeine
3. Do hot oil scalp massage atleast 2 times in a week. A blend of virgin coconut oil, olive oil and almond oil (all the three in equal quantities) can be used for hot oil massage of scalp.
4. Avoid hair styling and unnecessary chemical treatments
5. Don't blow dry your hair regularly
6. Don't comb wet hair and always use the one with soft bristles to avoid hair breakage
7. Always condition the hair after shampooing.
8. Ensure the use of good quality hair products
9. Boiling water can reduce the temporary hardness of water. So boil the water and use it only after cooling. It may reduce hair loss
10. Avoid stress and anxiety, if present
Thank You.
Hair fall is one of the most common problems we face today. What is also common is our lack of knowledge about the wonderful and simple ways through which we can treat the condition.
What You Need To Do :
1. Apply coconut milk to your scalp using a hair dye brush.
2. Then cover your head with a towel and leave it on for about 20 minutes. You can ideally prepare coconut milk at home by grinding the grated coconut and squeezing its milk.
3. After that, remove the towel and rinse your hair with cold water.