A picture of clumps of hair falling out with the Re~Growth UK logo in the back corner long with lost post title written in the middle: Understanding External Causes of Hair Loss More Than Just Genetics

Understanding External Causes of Hair Loss: More Than Just Genetics

Hair loss is a concern for many, and it affects both men and women globally. While genetics often play a significant role, several external factors can also contribute to hair thinning and cause hair loss. Understanding these can help you manage or even prevent some of the biggest causes of hair loss. At Re~Growth UK we provide expert hair loss treatment in Coventry, and have a breadth of knowledge in the causes of hair loss. 

In this article, we look at some of the external factors, including stress, that can affect your hair health.

A picture of a man suffering from hair loss and needing hair loss treatment Coventry

1. The Biggest External Cause of Hair Loss: Stress

One of the most significant external factors contributing to hair loss is stress. Both physical and emotional stress can trigger hair thinning and loss through a process known as telogen effluvium. This condition causes hair roots to be pushed prematurely into the resting state (telogen phase), leading to noticeable hair shedding. Major life events such as a divorce, death of a loved one, or job loss, as well as physical trauma like surgery or severe illness, can lead to high stress levels that impact your hair.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

What you eat impacts every part of your body, including your hair. Lack of essential nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc, and vitamins (particularly B vitamins) can lead to hair loss. A diet low in protein, for instance, can cause your body to ration protein by shutting down hair growth, leading to alopecia. Similarly, iron deficiency, which is common in women, especially those who do not consume enough iron-rich foods or have heavy menstrual cycles, can disrupt the hair growth cycle and induce shedding.

A picture of lots of fruit and veg in a bowl, to demonstrate importance of nutrition in fighting causes of hair loss

3. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones play a pivotal role in regulating the hair growth cycle. Disruptions such as those caused by pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid problems can induce hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, a form of hair loss affected by androgens (male hormones that are present in both men and women), can be exacerbated by hormonal imbalances. Birth control pills and other forms of hormonal treatment can also contribute to this condition.

4. Harsh Hair Care Practices

External physical factors like hair products can be one of the most notable causes of hair loss. Practices that can cause hair breakage and thinning include tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, and cornrows, as well as chemical treatments such as dyes, bleaches, and perms. Overuse of heat styling tools (blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons) can also weaken hair, making it more prone to breaking.

a picture of hair care products, which can be one of the causes of hair loss

5. Environmental Factors

Exposure to environmental elements such as sun, pollution, and harsh weather can weaken your hair and lead to loss. UV rays from the sun, for example, can damage the hair cuticle, the outer layer of the hair shaft. Pollutants can also build up on the scalp and hair, disrupting the hair growth cycle by blocking hair follicles.

Can I Avoid These Causes of Hair Loss?

Understanding and managing the external factors that lead to hair loss is crucial, but it’s important to recognise that not all hair loss can be prevented. Despite your best efforts to protect and nourish your hair, factors such as genetics, stress, and hormonal imbalances can still result in thinning or loss of hair. Here are a few proactive steps you can take:

  • Stress Management: Incorporate meditation, exercise, and relaxation techniques into your routine to manage stress effectively.
  • Balanced Diet: Eat a nutrient-rich diet that supports hair health, focusing on vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth and retention.
  • Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh chemical treatments and reduce the use of heat styling tools to keep your hair strong and resilient.
  • Environmental Protection: Shield your hair from environmental damage by wearing hats and opting for gentle, restorative hair care products.

While these steps are beneficial, they don’t always guarantee the prevention of hair loss. That’s where advanced treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy can come into play. PRP is a groundbreaking hair loss treatment that utilises the healing powers of your own blood to stimulate hair growth and restore hair health. Re~Growth UK offer the best PRP solutions for hair loss treatment in Coventry. We are well informed of it’s benefits, of which, there are many.

PRP: A Powerful Ally Against Hair Loss

PRP therapy stands out as a particularly effective solution for combating hair loss caused by external factors. Our treatment involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to enrich the plasma with platelets, and then injecting it directly into the scalp. The concentrated platelets release growth factors that increase blood supply to the hair follicles and promote new hair growth. This can lead to significant improvements in hair density and vitality. As you can see in the images below, the efficacy of PRP Treatment can yield amazing results. This is influencer Shane Cole after his second round of PRP Treatment in Coventry at Re~Growth UK.

A image of a severely balding man prior to undertaking hair loss treatment in Coventry with PRP treatment at ~ReGrowth UK
A post PRP treatment picture of a man with full hair following PRP Treatment and hair loss treatment in Coventry at Re~Growth UK

The benefits of PRP therapy include:

  • Natural hair loss treatment: Uses your body’s own biological material, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or side effects.
  • Effective: Clinically proven to promote hair growth and enhance hair thickness.
  • Minimally Invasive: Performed with minimal discomfort and requires no downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities immediately.

To get a better understanding of how PRP can help you combat the causes of your hair loss, click here. 

Fight Hair Loss with PRP at Re~Growth UK

Having full control over the causes of hair loss is tricky. However, with advancements in treatments like PRP, you have the power to potentially restore your hair and protect its future. If you’re facing persistent hair thinning or loss, consider PRP therapy as a potent remedy. Consulting with a hair care specialist who understands the nuances of PRP can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options. Remember, in the fight against hair loss, PRP is your ally, empowering you to regain not just your hair, but also your confidence. For a fuller, scientific analysis into PRP, check out our blog post into the benefits.

Contact us at https://regrowth-uk.co.uk to schedule in a free, no-obligations discuss, and see if we can assist you in your fight against hair loss.