What Causes Hair Loss. And How You Can Manage It!

There's an endless list of reasons for why a person might be experiencing hair loss. While it is always recommended to consult with a doctor if you're worried about this problem, there are steps you can take not only to stop the hair loss but often reverse it so that you can love your hair once again! 

 Related Article: The Best Oils For Hair Growth & Thickness

While this is not an exhaustive list of every possible reason (particularly for purposes relating to autoimmune disorders), we've compiled a list of eight of the most common reasons behind hair loss … and a few tips and tricks to get you started on your journey back to confidence so your inner beauty can shine its brightest once again!

1 | STRESS

As if stress didn't already do enough horrible things to our bodies, extreme stress can cause hair loss (A.K.A. telogen effluvium). It's one of the top reasons people experiencing hair loss face sudden shedding. The tense feeling of stress causes the body to release androgen, which may sometimes cause hair to fall out. However, like the stress, hair loss is often a temporary problem, and it is typical to see a full recovery in hair growth after a period of extreme stress has passed and the body resumes its healthy equilibrium. 

2 | HEAT & STYLING

Sorry, ladies. It might be time to put down the curling iron for a while. Excessive use of heat-powered hair styling tools can cause the hair shaft to become weak and damaged, resulting in hair loss. 

Take a quick look at your hair care routine - even a tightly-wound ponytail can pull on the hair and cause hair loss or even the hairline to begin receding. You can loosely pin your hair back in a clip or keep it off your face with a headband instead.

3 | HAIR COLOURING

Having hair-envy for the latest and greatest hair colour or gorgeous highlights is totally understandable. But it's also essential that we understand the strain regular colouring (particularly if going lighter) can put on our hair and take steps to counteract this, such as weekly treatments with a quality hair oil that is formulated for both scalp and hair health. The bottom line? If you want to dye your hair, remember it needs a little extra love! 

4 | GENETICS

Just like acne-prone skin or a dazzling smile, hair loss can be attributed to our genetics. Female pattern baldness is often seen in women who have family members with the same condition. There is an FDA-approved drug on the market to combat this hair loss: topically-applied minoxidil. However, before you rush out to get prescribed drugs, read this scientific study titled: Peppermint Oil Promotes Hair Growth without Toxic Signs. Peppermint Oil is a star ingredient in Indagare's Organic Hair Renewal Oil. 

5 | PREGNANCY

While the physical stress of pregnancy and early motherhood can contribute to hair loss in young mothers, hair loss associated with pregnancy is often seen right after birth, likely caused by the physical trauma of delivery. Luckily, this is usually a very temporary problem, and hair growth will return to its typical pattern shortly without any extra help or attention. 

6 | MENOPAUSE

Just like the body, hair is affected by age. Often triggered by the drop in estrogen and progesterone, two of the body's best friends when it comes to hair growth, this menopause-related change in the body can sometimes lead to a reduction in hair growth. Additionally, the body sees an uptick in androgens, a primarily male hormone often associated with a reduction in hair quality. Unfortunately, we can't stop ageing, but that doesn't mean we have to stop loving our hair! Take a look at the natural remedies below can aid in hair maintenance. 

7 | IRON

Iron deficiency is sometimes to blame for hair loss. Particularly those experiencing the effects of anemia, a condition in which the body lacks oxygen frequently due to insufficient iron concentrations in the body, can experience hair loss. Why? Because of this lack of oxygen, the body prioritizes the essential, life-giving processes of the body as opposed to the more aesthetic processes. In this case, it's best to discuss consult with a doctor, who will likely send you for a blood test to confirm and then suggest a supplement that is best for your body.

8 | PROTEIN

Hair is comprised mostly of keratin, a protein. So, if you don't have enough protein in your diet, your body will likely hold on to what it gets, making it less likely to spend that precious protein on creating luscious hair. However, making a conscious effort to include more protein-rich ingredients into your diet is a great start to get back on track to healthy hair. A registered dietician or nutritionist can be a great resource to help in your search for protein-packed foods you'll love.

Related Article: Read our more comprehensive article on What To Eat For Healthy, Strong Hair here.

ESSENTIAL OILS THAT MAY HELP WITH HAIR LOSS

Peppermint oil and Rosemary oil are both understood to increase blood circulation in the scalp, in turn leading to a healthier and happier scalp that promotes follicle health and hair growth. Remember that scientific study we talked about before proving Peppermint outperformed an F.D.A. approved hair growth drug? Indagare's award-winning hair oil  has a meticulously blend of 12 potent oils shown to help grow and maintain healthy hair, and peppermint oil is one of the stars! 

A blend of potent essential oils is mixed with a precise base of organic botanicals inspired by hair beautifying rituals from ancient cultures. We use the purest Argan oil from Morocco; Camellia oils as the Japanese Geishas use; Sesame Oil, which is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for hair and scalp health; and the precious Sacha Inchi from the Amazonian jungle for glossy, healthy locks. 

If hair growth is your aim, be sure to put aside time each week to enjoy a lovely scalp massage with this nourishing, yet lightweight natural hair treatment before sleeping with it overnight. A small 2016 study found that scalp massages may lead to thicker hair. Then, research from 2019 supported these findings with 340 participants doing twice-daily scalp massages to improve hair loss. So even if you don't add a hair oil to your self-care routine, a regular scalp massage is something you can start today!

Discover Indagare's Award-Winning, Multi-Tasking Hair Oil Here: