Hair fall: common causes, what helps, and when to see a dermatologist
Losing some hair every day is normal. Here is how to tell when hair fall needs attention, the common causes in men and women, and what a dermatologist can do.
Everyone loses some hair every day as old hairs make way for new ones. Hair fall becomes a concern when it is heavier than usual, lasts for weeks, or leaves thin patches.
Common causes
- Pattern hair loss: gradual thinning at the crown or temples in men, and a widening parting in women. It often runs in families.
- Shedding after illness or stress: fever (including dengue and COVID-19), surgery, childbirth or crash dieting can cause heavy shedding a few months later.
- Low iron, vitamin B12 or vitamin D, and thyroid problems
- Hormonal conditions such as PCOS in women
- Dandruff and scalp infections
- Tight hairstyles and harsh chemical treatments
- Alopecia areata: round, smooth bald patches
What you can do at home
- Eat enough protein, fruits and vegetables; avoid crash diets
- Wash your hair regularly with a mild shampoo; treat dandruff
- Avoid very tight braids, frequent heat styling and harsh chemicals
- Be patient: hair grows about 1 cm a month, so changes take three to six months to show
What a dermatologist does
A dermatologist looks at your scalp and hair pattern, asks about your health and may suggest blood tests. Depending on the cause, treatment may include medicines applied to the scalp, tablets, treatment for dandruff or infection, or procedures such as PRP. For advanced pattern baldness, some people consider a hair transplant.
When to see a doctor
See a dermatologist if:
- Hair fall continues for more than six to eight weeks
- You notice bald patches, a receding hairline or thinning at the crown
- Hair loss comes with irregular periods, acne or weight changes
- Your scalp is itchy, scaly or painful
Find a skin and hair specialist
Compare dermatologists near you by Google rating and book online.
Frequently asked questions
How much hair fall is normal?
Losing around 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. More than that for several weeks, a widening parting or bald patches are worth checking.
Can stress cause hair fall?
Yes. A big illness, fever, surgery, childbirth or severe stress can cause heavy shedding two to three months later. It usually recovers on its own.
Do hair oils stop hair fall?
Oiling can make hair softer and reduce breakage, but it does not treat the common medical causes of hair loss.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Please see a doctor for advice about your health. In an emergency, call 108.
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