Causes of Hair Loss

Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Hair loss can cause us many troubles, not only affecting our life and work, but also bringing us significant mental stress. So, what are the general causes of hair loss? 1. Endocrine disorders: Hair growth is affected by various hormonal influences. The pressure from routine work, life, and studies can cause disruptions in physical functions, as well as conditions like postpartum and menopause, leading to endocrine disorders. 2. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies and abnormal metabolism can lead to hair loss, with severe malnutrition even causing diffuse hair loss. 3. Genetic factors: Typically, males are more prone to hair loss due to genetic traits that manifest under the influence of androgens. 4. Physical illness: Some medications taken for diseases can cause side effects, including hair loss. 5. Physical and chemical hair loss: Frequent perming and hair dyeing, long hours in front of computers, and frequent use of mobile phones can all lead to hair loss.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Can sulfur soap be used to wash hair for seborrheic alopecia?

If you are experiencing seborrheic hair loss, it is not recommended to use sulfur soap for shampooing. This is because sulfur has a degreasing effect and can treat seborrheic dermatitis, but sulfur is irritating to the scalp. Its strong degreasing effect on the scalp can alter the scalp's microecological environment, which is not conducive to the normal growth and recovery of hair. Therefore, it is not advisable to use sulfur soap for shampooing when experiencing seborrheic hair loss. With the advancement of science, many dandruff treatment and hair growth promoting skincare products can be used for shampooing. We can choose these types of products which cause less damage to the scalp barrier and are more gentle in degreasing, avoiding major irritation and facilitating the recovery of the scalp.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long will postpartum hair loss last?

Postpartum hair loss is a common physiological phenomenon among women after giving birth, but it is unpredictable how long the hair loss will last. For most women, postpartum hair loss can persist for six months to a year, after which hair growth gradually returns to normal. It is important to prevent hair loss after childbirth. For example, it is advisable not to wash hair too frequently; washing every three days is generally sufficient. Additionally, it is important to enhance nutrition and maintain a balanced diet, as the most important source for hair is protein. Therefore, consuming more protein-rich foods is recommended.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can seborrheic hair loss grow back?

Seborrheic alopecia, also medically known as androgenic alopecia, is generally more common in men, with a relatively lower incidence rate in women. The occurrence of this disease is mostly related to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands, or it can be said to have a certain relation to family genetics. The condition can be improved with standard treatment, but it may not fully recover, especially for patients with severe symptoms, such as receding hairlines or baldness, who find treatment rather challenging. Generally, standard treatment at a dermatology department of a formal hospital can restore about 80% of the original condition, which is considered quite effective. Complete recovery is generally difficult to achieve clinically. Treatment can include oral and topical medications, and can also be complemented with long-term conditioning using traditional Chinese medicine.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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Is supplementing with zinc useful for seborrheic hair loss?

Patients with seborrheic alopecia can appropriately supplement with zinc-rich preparations and foods, which have certain auxiliary effects on the hair. Seborrheic alopecia, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a type of hair loss characterized by genetic factors and dependent on androgen action. It can occur in both men and women, though it is more common in men. Treatment mainly targets the hair follicles, and there is no particularly effective cure. Treatments can include topical application of 2% or 5% minoxidil solution, oral administration of finasteride, and for women, oral spironolactone can be used. If necessary, treatment can be supplemented with traditional Chinese medicine and scalp acupuncture, including plum blossom needle therapy. For cases of seborrheic alopecia where the hair follicles have significantly atrophied, scalp transplantation and hair transplantation may also be options. Patients with seborrheic alopecia should also pay attention to their diet by consuming light, nutritious foods and avoiding spicy and irritating substances. It is beneficial to consume foods containing high-quality complex proteins and various vitamins, including vitamins, trace elements, zinc, copper, calcium, etc., all of which assist in hair growth.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can hair loss be inherited?

Hair loss generally has two common types: alopecia areata and seborrheic alopecia. Seborrheic alopecia has a certain hereditary nature, whereas alopecia areata does not have a hereditary aspect. Most cases are related to deficiencies in vitamins, trace elements, or low immunity. Seborrheic alopecia has some hereditary factors and is a genetic disease carried by males in the family. Once this disease occurs, it is not easy to completely eradicate and tends to worsen with age. Generally, one can take oral medications to reduce oil secretion, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and avoid staying up late and stress. It is advisable to wash hair with lukewarm or cold water, and avoid using very hot water. After recovery, it is important to exercise more, consume more vegetables and fruits, and supplement vitamins and trace elements.