Baldness

What is baldness?

Baldness happens when more hair falls out than grows back, often due to androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss). While it’s more common in men, women can also experience hair thinning or patchy hair loss.

Hair growth cycle:

• Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair grows for 2-4 years.
• Catagen (Transition Phase): Hair follicles shrink over 2-3 weeks.
• Telogen (Resting Phase): After 3-4 months, old hair sheds, making way for new hair—unless balding takes over!

Common causes of baldness?

• Genetics: The primary cause.
• Tight Hairstyles: African braids, cornrows, wigs, and ponytails can stress hair, causing traction alopecia.
• Stress or Illness: Sudden stress, illness, or surgery may trigger temporary hair loss.
• Ringworm (tinea capitis): A fungal infection that causes bald patches.

What doesn’t cause baldness?

• Wearing hats or wigs.
• Frequent shampooing.
• Dandruff.

How to prevent baldness?

• Loosen tight hairstyles to reduce scalp stress.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet for strong hair.
• Massage your scalp to improve circulation.
• Quit smoking to promote healthy hair growth.

Treatment options?

• Medications: Minoxidil or finasteride can help regrow hair.
• Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet, stress control, and avoiding harsh hair treatments.
• Hair Transplants: Moving hair from one area of the scalp to another for fuller coverage.