TOPICAL HAIR LOSS

Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons in both men and women. It is something many people experience and can appear as gradual thinning, a receding hairline, a widening part, or patchy areas of hair loss. 

These changes are linked to hereditary hair loss, male or female pattern baldness, as the most common cause. However, hair loss can be influenced by hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.

In some people, hair loss can be temporary, while in others it can be progressive. Identifying the underlying cause is an important first step in managing hair loss effectively. Understanding your type of hair loss helps guide treatment choices and supports better outcomes over time.

Hair growth follows a natural cycle that repeats throughout your life. Each strand grows from a hair follicle beneath the scalp and moves through different phases. The main stages are:

Anagen (growth phase):

Active hair growth lasts between 2 and 7 years. 

Catagen (Transition phase):

A short phase of around 2-3 weeks, where growth slows, and the follicle shrinks. 

Telogen (Resting phase):

This phase lasts approx 3 months before the hair sheds and new growth begins. 

Losing hair is normal; in fact, most people will lose 50-100 hairs a day. The problem often stems when the rate of hair growth drops significantly below the rate of shedding. This results in hair thinning and bald spots. 

Nearly all men and women will lose some thickness to their hair as they age. With that said, its more noticeable form will affect up to 40% of men and women.

Hair follicles are responsible for producing hair using keratin, a structural protein. Healthy follicles rely on blood supply, nutrients, and hormonal balance to function properly.

In common forms of hair loss, particularly hereditary hair loss, follicles gradually shrink in a process known as miniaturization. This leads to thinner, shorter hairs over time until growth may stop altogether.

Understanding this process can explain why early intervention can be important in maintaining hair health.

Hereditary Hair Loss: the most common cause

This is the most common cause of hair loss and affects both men and women, though the pattern differs. 

Male pattern baldness 

• Receding hair line 
• Thinning at the crown
• Can progress to partial or complete baldness

This type of hair loss is progressive and starts at the hairline and recedes back from either side of the forehead towards the crown of the head.

How Hormones Influence Hair Loss

Hormones play a key role in regulating the hair growth cycle. 

A hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is closely linked to hereditary hair loss. In individuals with sensitive hair follicles, DHT can:

• Shorten the growth phase
• Shrink hair follicles 
• Produce finer, weaker hair strands 

Over time, this can lead to visible thinning and reduced hair density. 

Signs You May Be Experiencing Hair Loss

Early indicators of hair loss can include:

• A receding hairline
• Thinning at the crown
• Development of bald patches
• Increased daily hair shedding
• Hair becoming finer or weaker

Recognising these signs early can help you explore treatment options sooner and support ongoing hair health.

Other causes of hair loss

Hair loss is not always hereditary. Other common causes include: 

Hormonal changes 

• Pregnancy and postpartum period 
• Menopause
• Thyroid imbalances

Medical Conditions 

• Alopecia areata (autoimmune hair loss)
• Telogen effluvium (stress-related shedding)
• Scalp infections

Medications 

• Hormonal treatments
• Thyroid medications
• Some treatments for chronic conditions 

Each cause affects the hair cycle differently, hence why it's important to determine the root cause of hair loss before treatment.

Emotional Impact of Hair Loss

Hair loss can significantly impact confidence and may lead to unwanted attention or self-consciousness. For many people, their skin, hair, and nails are closely tied to their identity and self-expression. As a result, losing hair can affect self-image and contribute to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. 

However, early intervention can make a meaningful difference, and treatments are often effective in managing hereditary hair loss when started promptly.

Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons, and the most appropriate management depends on the underlying cause. Speaking with an Australian-registered healthcare professional allows for an individual assessment and tailored advice based on your specific situation.

An accurate diagnosis is key, as it guides effective treatment choices and can prevent further damage to hair follicles.

Supporting Hair and Scalp Health

Alongside medical management, maintaining a healthy scalp environment can support hair growth. Focus on:

• Keeping the scalp clean and well cared for
• Avoiding excessive heat or chemical treatments
• Reducing tension from tight hairstyles
• Managing stress levels
• 
  

These steps help create conditions that support healthier hair growth.

Healthy habits can play a role in maintaining hair strength and reducing further loss:

Nutrition:

Ensure adequate intake of protein, iron, zinc, and essential vitamins (A, C, D, E) for hair health.

Scalp Care:

Reduce tension on the hair by avoiding tight styles and elastic bands, and support scalp health with gentle, non-irritating products.

Stress Management:

Chronic stress can disrupt the hair cycle and contribute to hair loss. Managing stress through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques can help reduce hair loss and improve overall quality of life, particularly in stress-related or traction alopecia. 

General Health:

Sleep, exercise, and avoiding smoking all contribute to overall hair health.

If you're experiencing concerns about thinning or balding, taking the first step to understand what may be contributing can be a useful starting point.

Speaking with a doctor allows for a discreet assessment and personalised guidance to help identify possible factors affecting hair health. 

Early discussion can help you better understand your concerns and explore appropriate management approaches suited to your individual circumstances.

Connect with a clinical team for a professional assessment and, where appropriate, begin building a plan to help manage hair loss and your overal hair health.