Hair loss

Hair Loss: Causes and Solutions

Losing hair is a natural process. However, if you are shedding more hair than you are growing back, there may be a reason for concern. Fortunately, there are treatments that address the root causes of hair loss and effectively target the problem at its source. But before choosing the right treatment, it's essential to understand how hair growth works and what might be causing your hair loss.

How Does Hair Growth Work?

Hair grows from a follicle embedded in the skin. This follicle goes through different phases of hair production:

• Anagen Phase (Growth Phase): This is when hair actively grows, lasting between two to seven years, with an average of three years. Each follicle can produce one or multiple strands of hair during this time.
• Catagen Phase (Transition Phase): The follicle starts detaching from the root, and the hair strand no longer receives nutrients. The root shrinks, weakening the hair’s attachment to the scalp.
• Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): The hair is no longer actively growing and remains in a dormant state before eventually shedding. This phase lasts between three to five months in a healthy scalp.

After the resting phase, the cycle starts again with new hair growth.

Why Am I Losing Hair?

For men, the most common cause of hair loss is genetics. If hair loss runs in your family, it is likely hereditary. This can often be determined by looking at your father and maternal grandfather. The primary gene responsible for baldness is found in the X chromosome, inherited from the mother. If both your father and grandfather experienced early hair loss, there is a high chance you may as well.

The likelihood of male pattern baldness increases with age:

• 20% of men experience hair loss in their 20s.
• 30% in their 30s.
• The percentage continues to rise, reaching about 70% of men in their 70s.

Other Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can also result from various factors such as:

• Health conditions – Certain illnesses affect hair growth.
• Stress and lifestyle – Chronic stress, poor diet, and certain medications can contribute to hair thinning.
• Hormonal imbalances – Changes in hormone levels can impact hair growth.

Health, Disease, and Hair Loss

Some medical conditions can disrupt the hair growth cycle. The thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, plays a crucial role in hair health. Both an overactive and underactive thyroid can cause hair loss.

Another common cause is Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy bald spots on the scalp. These patches can range from coin-sized areas to total hair loss (Alopecia Totalis). In most cases, Alopecia Areata is temporary, and hair regrows over time.

Vitamin Deficiencies & Hair Loss

Lack of essential vitamins can negatively affect hair health. Deficiencies in Vitamin B8 (Biotin) and Vitamin B6 (Niacin) can weaken hair structure and lead to increased shedding.

Stress-Induced Hair Loss

Chronic stress can be a major trigger for hair loss, particularly in those genetically predisposed to it. Severe stress can also lead to Telogen Effluvium, a condition where a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously, resulting in increased shedding. This can occur after traumatic events, illness, or significant nutritional deficiencies.

Hair Loss in Women

Genetic hair loss affects women as well, though less frequently than men. Approximately 40% of women experience hereditary hair thinning at some point in their lives, with about 15% experiencing it before menopause.

Unlike male pattern baldness, which typically causes receding hairlines or bald spots, female hair loss tends to be more diffuse, affecting the entire scalp or the parting line.

Other Causes of Hair Loss in Women

Aside from genetics, hair loss in women can be triggered by:

• Stress
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Underlying health conditions
• Scalp disorders

Additionally, hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in hair thinning. Women often experience hair loss during two major life stages:

1. Post-pregnancy – A sudden drop in estrogen levels can cause temporary shedding.
2. Menopause – Hormonal shifts can lead to increased hair thinning, often manifesting as Telogen Effluvium.

In most cases, hormonally induced hair loss is temporary, and hair regrows naturally over time.

Our Solution for Hair Loss

At Swedish Advanced Trichology, we provide an advanced laser technology solution designed to stimulate hair growth, strengthen follicles, and reduce hair loss effectively. Our innovative laser helmet uses clinically tested low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to revitalize hair follicles, promoting thicker, fuller, and healthier hair.

With cutting-edge Swedish trichology expertise, our system offers a non-invasive, scientifically backed approach to combating hair loss—helping you restore confidence and achieve visible results.