Baldness

What is baldness?

Losing some hair every day is normal. But if you notice that your hair is thinning or falling out faster than usual, you may be experiencing baldness. Many people, especially men, lose hair as they grow older. In Africa, baldness is common but often misunderstood. Some believe it is caused by wearing hats, washing hair too often, or using certain hair products. However, baldness is mainly due to genetics, aging, or underlying health conditions.

How common is baldness in Africa?

Baldness affects millions of people across Africa. Studies suggest that around 30% of African men start losing hair by the age of 30, and this increases with age. Women also experience hair thinning, especially after childbirth or menopause. In countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, many men embrace baldness, while others seek treatments.

For African women, traction alopecia (hair loss caused by tight braiding and weaves) is a major issue. A study in South Africa found that one in three women who regularly wear tight hairstyles experience hair loss.

Stages of baldness?

Hair loss happens in three main stages:

  • Growing phase (anagen phase): Hair grows for about 2 to 4 years.
  • Transition phase (catagen phase): Hair follicles shrink over 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Resting phase (telogen phase): After 3 to 4 months, old hair falls out and new hair starts to grow.

If more hair falls out than grows back, baldness occurs.

Symptoms of baldness?

The signs of baldness depend on whether you are male or female:

  • Men: Receding hairline and bald patches on the top of the head.
  • Women: Thinning of hair all over the scalp, especially where hair is parted.

Causes of baldness?

The most common cause of baldness is hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). It is responsible for 95% of permanent hair loss. Other causes include:

  • Traction alopecia: Hair loss due to tight braids, weaves, or ponytails.
  • Alopecia areata: An autoimmune disease where the body attacks hair follicles.
  • Stress-related hair loss (telogen effluvium): Sudden hair loss after illness, childbirth, or extreme stress.
  • Scalp infections (tinea capitis): Fungal infections that cause patches of hair loss, especially in children.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of iron, protein, or vitamins can cause hair thinning.

Myths about baldness?

Many people believe certain habits cause baldness, but these are misconceptions:

  • Wearing hats does not cause baldness.
  • Frequent shampooing does not make hair fall out.
  • Dandruff does not cause baldness.
  • Wigs and weaves do not cause baldness, but glue and tight hairstyles can.

Treatment options for baldness?

There is no guaranteed cure for baldness, but treatments can help slow down hair loss:

Medications

  • Minoxidil: A lotion applied to the scalp that helps regrow hair.
  • Finasteride: A pill that helps slow down hair loss in men.
  • Spironolactone: A medication for women that blocks hair-loss hormones.

Other treatments?

  • Hair transplant: Hair is taken from one part of the head and implanted in bald areas.
  • Laser therapy: Uses light to stimulate hair growth.
  • Protein-rich plasma therapy: Injections of your own blood platelets to stimulate hair growth.
  • Nutritional supplements: Omega-3, omega-6, and antioxidants may support hair health.

How to prevent hair loss?

While genetic baldness cannot be prevented, you can reduce hair loss from other causes:

  • Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp.
  • Reduce heat styling (blow dryers, curling irons, straighteners).
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, protein, and vitamins.
  • Massage your scalp to improve blood circulation.
  • Quit smoking, as it may worsen hair loss.
  • Use mild hair products to prevent scalp irritation.

Final thoughts?

Baldness is common, and it is not a sign of poor hygiene or weakness. While some people choose to embrace their baldness, others may seek treatment. The most important thing is to understand the causes and options available. If you experience sudden or severe hair loss, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.