While some people decide to go bald by choice because they like the shiny scalp look, for most people, losing their hair can be an embarrassing problem. Though hair loss is common among older people, some people begin to lose their hair in their late teens. While most hair loss can't be prevented, in some cases, medical, homeopathic and scalp treatments can slow the progression of hair loss.
Misconceptions
Most people associate hair loss with aging men, but hair loss is also a problem for women. Illnesses like diabetes or lupus, pregnancy and hormonal problems are common conditions that can trigger hair loss (see Resources). Also, since cancer can affect people of any age, and chemotherapy can cause hair loss, it should be no surprise that people of all ages can lose their hair.
Types
There are two main types of hair loss. Temporary and permanent. Temporary hair loss is a condition when the hair falls out, but then grows back. Hair loss during an illness, pregnancy or after a major surgery is usually classified as temporary.
Pattern baldness is usually genetic and results in permanent hair loss. There is female pattern baldness which is a thinning of hair over the entire scalp, or male pattern baldness which results in a receding hair line and baldness at the top of the head.
Significance
Hair loss can be a real problem for some people. Losing hair can affect a person's self esteem and lead them to feel unattractive. And cosmetic solutions for hair loss can be extremely expensive making it prohibitive for some people. Good quality wigs can cost thousands of dollars and laser light treatments that may or may not work can set you back hundreds of dollars (see Resources).
Prevention/Solution
Finding the root of the hair loss can be helpful in stopping or slowing the progression of hair loss. Since hair loss can be a sign of a medical issue, like a thyroid condition or hormone imbalance, treating the condition can often stop hair loss. Taking good care of your hair by using quality hair care products and avoiding chemical treatments, like perms, can also prevent hair loss (see Resources).
Considerations
Wearing pony tails, pig tails or cornrows can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. The hair is pulled tight to achieve these styles and this pulling can cause the hair to temporarily fall out. But if scalp scarring occurs from repeated styling, hair loss may be permanent (see Resources).
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