Health

Finding a few extra hairs on your pillow can be unsettling. Most of the time it is nothing to worry about. Sometimes, though, hair loss is a sign that something in your body needs attention.

This guide explains how much shedding is normal and the common types of hair loss. It also covers the usual triggers and when it makes sense to book in with a GP. It is general information only, drawn from Australian health sources.

How much shedding is normal

Healthdirect, the Australian Government health information service, says it is normal to lose around 100 hairs a day. Seeing hair in your brush or the shower drain is usually not a concern. Hair grows in cycles, and old hairs fall out as new ones come through. The time to pay closer attention is when the amount changes noticeably.

Alopecia is simply the medical term for hair loss. It can affect one area or several areas of the head, face or body. It can be upsetting when it happens. A doctor can help work out the cause before you talk about treatment.

The main types of hair loss

There are several distinct types, and each has its own pattern. A doctor or dermatologist will usually look at where the hair is thinning and how quickly. The alopecia guide on healthdirect lists these common types:

• Androgenetic alopecia, also called male or female pattern hair loss, which is usually genetic.
• Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that often causes round bald patches on the head.
• Telogen effluvium, where a shock to the body pauses hair growth and more hair falls out for a time.
• Traction alopecia, caused by tension from tight hairstyles.
• Scarring alopecia, where some health conditions destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue.

Pattern hair loss

Pattern hair loss is the type most people know about. Healthdirect describes male pattern baldness as a common genetic condition. It causes thinning at the crown and a receding hairline, and it affects half of men over 40. Female pattern hair loss is the most common type of hair loss and thinning in women.

With this type, hormone levels are often normal. The issue is that some hair follicles are more sensitive to androgens than others. Over time those follicles produce finer, shorter hairs. That is why the change can be gradual and easy to miss at first.

Alopecia areata

In alopecia areata, the immune system attacks the hair follicles. It usually shows up as one or more circular patches on the head. In some people it progresses to loss of all head hair, known as alopecia totalis. Loss of all body hair is called alopecia universalis.

Healthdirect says there is currently no cure or way to prevent it. Small patches that are likely to regrow may simply be left alone. For larger areas, a doctor may discuss steroid creams, steroid injections or other prescribed options. Severe cases are usually managed with specialist care.

Common triggers worth knowing

Telogen effluvium is often linked to a big event in your life. Trauma, grief, major life changes and stress can all set it off. Childbirth and a prolonged high fever are also listed triggers. The extra shedding may not appear until a few months after the event, which can make the cause hard to spot.

Diet and weight matter too. Iron or zinc deficiency and sudden weight loss are both named as possible causes. A varied diet with plenty of vegetables, like the beautiful beetroot, supports your general health. If you are working on a slimmer shape, steer clear of crash diets and read up on when to wear your waist trainer before relying on one.

Some health conditions can also cause hair loss. Healthdirect lists an underactive thyroid, lupus, tinea and psoriasis. Starting or stopping some medicines can contribute, and chemotherapy is a well known cause. If you have recently changed medicines, mention it to your doctor rather than stopping anything yourself.

Hair care habits

Everyday styling can play a part. Chemicals, bleach, heat from a hair dryer and excessive brushing can all damage hair. Tight ponytails, braids and buns that pull on the scalp can lead to traction alopecia. Giving your hair regular breaks from tension and heat is a simple step anyone can take.

Some hair loss comes from pulling out hair. Trichotillomania is a mental health condition where a person feels compelled to pull out their hair. Healthdirect says it can be embarrassing and distressing, but help is available. A GP can help with support and referral.

When to see a doctor

Healthdirect suggests speaking to a doctor if you are losing considerably more hair than usual. The same goes for hair coming out in clumps. Bald patches where the skin looks red, swollen, scaly or blistered also need prompt attention. Scarring alopecia should be treated early because it can lead to permanent scarring of the skin.

Your GP is the starting point for most health questions, from hair loss to changes in your eyesight that may one day lead to cataract eye surgery. For hair loss, a doctor will usually ask about your symptoms and look at your scalp. They may order blood tests to rule out other conditions. If the cause is unclear, they may take a small skin or hair sample.

Treatment and support

Treatment depends on the cause. If an infection or health condition is behind the loss, treating it may help. If a recent shock or illness is the trigger, your doctor can explain what to expect. Pattern hair loss has several prescription options that a doctor can talk through with you.

Healthdirect is honest that treatments do not always work. Some people choose to adapt, using wigs, scarves, hats or hair products. Hair transplant surgery is another option, which moves hair from thicker areas to thinner ones. As with any cosmetic procedure, including where Botox gets injected, check the practitioner’s qualifications first.

Hair loss can affect how you feel about yourself. Healthdirect notes that people with hair loss face a higher risk of depression and anxiety. Your GP can talk through support options, and the healthdirect hair problems page links to further information. Talking to someone early is a sensible step.

Frequently asked questions

Is losing hair in the shower normal?

Usually, yes. Losing around 100 hairs a day is considered normal. See a doctor if you notice much more than usual or hair coming out in clumps.

Can stress make your hair fall out?

It can. Stress, grief and major life changes can trigger telogen effluvium. The shedding often shows up a few months later, so mention any recent big events to your doctor.

Can tight hairstyles cause hair loss?

Yes. Constant tension from tight styles can cause traction alopecia. Looser styles and regular breaks reduce the strain on your scalp.

Will my hair grow back?

It depends on the type and cause. Some patches regrow without treatment, while scarring alopecia can be permanent. A doctor can explain what to expect in your case.

This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please speak with your doctor or a qualified health professional about your own situation.