Thinning Hair – Facts and Stats for Men and Women
Thinning hair and hair loss can cause a great deal of anxiety for men and women. Women in particular may find hair loss traumatic, because it’s not considered to be a “normal” part of aging. But what causes hair loss? How many people really suffer from it? And can it indicate any underlying health issues?
Here are some facts and statistics about thinning hair for both men and women.
1. Men versus Women
Hair loss associated with aging is often considered a “male” problem. But about 40% of hair loss sufferers are women, sources say, and almost half of all women experience hair loss as a hereditary problem. To put it another way, 35 million men in the US experience hair loss, and 21 million women. So this is not just a guy thing.
Let’s look at some of the facts about the real culprits behind hair loss, and why it can be a cause for concern.
2. Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?
Actually, most experts agree that stress is not a significant cause of thinning hair, particularly for men. It may play a role in female hair loss, but it’s not likely to be a significant cause of thinning hair.
3. What about Heredity?
Most sources agree that heredity is one of the big culprits in hair loss. Some experts go so far as to say it accounts for almost 80% of male hair loss. Heredity can affect women’s hair, too, but it is not always straightforward. This is because hair loss in women may have some other causes, and those other causes may or may not be hereditary.
4. Hormones
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is a major cause of hair loss in women. There are other possible hormonal causes of hair loss, too, such as the decrease in estrogen that occurs in menopause or the hormonal shifts that happen a few months after giving birth. It’s worth checking in with your doctor or other health professional if you think hormonal imbalance is playing a role in your hair loss.
5. Possible Underlying Health Issues Indicated by Hair Loss
There are some health problems that are associated with hair loss and thinning hair. Here are some of them:
* Iron deficiency
* Deficiency in other vitamins
* Too much vitamin A
* Alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune disorder that manifests as hair loss
6. How You Treat Your Hair
While hair is essentially dead tissue once it comes out of the follicle, how you treat your hair can affect its thickness. For example, harsh pulling and ripping at tangles with plastic bristle brushes can damage hair and make it appear thin by tearing up the ends. Harsh styling treatments can also cause hair breakage. Experts suggest using a natural-bristle brush that is gentle on the hair and massages the scalp.
7. The Role of Diet and Nutrition
Both men and women can benefit from a healthy diet, and their hair can, too. Sources say that getting plenty of healthy fats is important, as is taking an age-appropriate, easily absorbed vitamin. Eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies for nutrients and fiber, and exercise regularly. Exercise helps get the circulation going everywhere, including your scalp.
Hair loss is no fun, and it may indicate a health problem. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to check with a health professional.