You might have heard that men with a bald father are likely to lose hair, but many experience hair loss without a family history. You're not alone if you're wondering why you're losing hair despite no pattern in your family. It often starts with extra hair strands in the shower drain or noticing more scalp in photos—a worrying and frustrating experience. While genetics play a role, other factors like hormones, medical conditions, stress, and poor lifestyle choices also contribute. If you notice thinning or excessive shedding, Dr Batra's® can identify the root cause and offer a personalised treatment plan.
Hair Loss Can Be Due to Various Causes
Hair loss isn't just about genetics. It can be triggered by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, medical conditions, and poor nutrition.
1. Hormonal Imbalance and Hair Loss
Hormones regulate the hair growth cycle. An excess of androgens (male hormones), particularly DHT (dihydrotestosterone), can shrink hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and baldness.
Have you noticed your hairline receding slowly over time? It could be a sign of hormone-related hair loss. Sooner you identify the issue, the better your chances of managing it effectively.
2. Iron & Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hair Shedding
- Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss, as iron is essential for hair cell production.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency affects the oxygen supply to hair follicles, leading to hair thinning.
If you've been feeling fatigued, experiencing unexplained weakness, or noticing pale skin along with hair loss, a simple blood test could reveal if you’re deficient in these essential nutrients.
3. Medical Illnesses That Trigger Hair Loss
- Thyroid disorders can disrupt hair growth cycles.
- Diabetes affects blood circulation, weakening hair follicles.
- Autoimmune diseases can cause excessive hair shedding.
Sometimes, hair loss is your body's signal that something deeper needs attention. Addressing the underlying health concern can also help restore hair health.
4. Stress-Induced Hair Fall (Telogen Effluvium)
Prolonged stress raises androgen levels, resulting in hair thinning and scalp issues.
Have you ever noticed your hair shedding more after a particularly tough period at work or in your personal life? Stress can push more hair into the shedding phase, leading to temporary but noticeable hair loss.
5. Crash Dieting and Nutritional Hair Loss
Extreme diets lacking protein, iron, and essential vitamins can weaken hair, causing excessive shedding.
We all want to stay fit, but losing weight too quickly can also mean losing hair. When deprived of nutrients, your body prioritises essential functions over hair growth.
6. Ozempic and hair loss
Ozempic improves blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Although it is effective at managing diabetes, some individuals may experience hair loss as a side effect. The rapid weight loss caused by Ozempic can result in telogen effluvium and hair loss resulting from stress or trauma to the body. Ozempic is being used in the fight against obesity and weight management.
Other Possible Reasons for Hair Loss in Men
Poor Scalp Hygiene & Hair Care Mistakes
Using the wrong shampoos, infrequent washing, and harsh treatments can weaken hair follicles. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to hair care.
Excessive Use of Hair Styling Products
Hair gels, sprays, and heat styling tools can damage hair, leading to breakage and thinning. If you use a blow dryer or wax daily, it might be time to reconsider your routine.
Smoking & Its Effect on Hair Health
Smoking reduces blood flow to the scalp, depriving hair follicles of essential nutrients.
Did you know? Studies have shown that smokers are twice as likely to experience premature hair loss compared to non-smokers.
Impact of Sleep & Lifestyle on Hair Growth
Inadequate sleep and poor lifestyle choices can disrupt hair regrowth cycles.
Facts About Hair Loss in Men
Myths vs. Facts: Understanding Hair Loss
Myth: Baldness is inherited only from the mother’s side.
Fact: It can come from both parental sides.
Myth: Washing your hair too often causes hair loss.
Fact: Washing hair regularly with a mild shampoo helps maintain scalp health and does not lead to hair loss.
Myth: Wearing a hat frequently causes baldness.
Fact: Hats do not cause baldness unless they are extremely tight, restricting blood flow to hair follicles.
Myth: Stress alone is responsible for permanent hair loss.
Fact: While stress can cause temporary hair shedding (Telogen Effluvium), it usually does not cause permanent baldness.
Dr Batra’s® pro tip:
Hair loss without a family history is common. Don’t ignore early signs—identify the root cause and start personalised treatment early for the best results.
Medically reviewed by
Avani Joshi
