Hairstyles that pull your hair tightly can cause “traction alopecia,” in which follicles are damaged over time. If you feel scalp pain, avoid pulling your hair back into tight ponytails or other styles that pull the hair.
Recent studies show that genetic hair loss can be inherited from either parent in both boys and girls. [2] X Research source
The disorder is often caused by stress. See a therapist or a hair and scalp specialist called a “trichologist” for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia can starve the body of essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals needed for hair growth. Some vegetarian teens also lose hair if they don’t get enough protein from non-meat sources. Athletes are at a higher risk for hair loss because they’re more likely to develop iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia can then result in hair loss. One cause of patchy hair loss, often with scaling and broken hairs, is ringworm of the scalp, called tinea capitis. It is not very common in teens, but it can occur. This is caused by a fungal infection and is treated with oral medications and special shampoos.
If unchecked, alopecia areata can sometimes progress to full baldness or even complete loss of all body hair, though this is rare. [7] X Research source See a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis, which may involve simple examination of hair under a microscope or may call for a skin biopsy. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source The condition is not contagious. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Be wary of products advertising hair loss prevention or hair regrowth, as there’s not scientific evidence backing them up. Ask your hair stylist or dermatologist for advice on which hair products may be best for you.
Focus on cleaning the scalp with shampoo rather than the strands of hair. Washing only your hair might make it dry it out, making it prone to breakage and shedding. [13] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Apply conditioner after every shampoo to rehydrate hair and improve hair strength. Unlike shampoo, you should avoid the scalp and concentrate on the tips of the hair. [14] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Conditioning the scalp can lead to blocked, unhealthy follicles. [15] X Research source Avoid rubbing your hair too hard with a towel after a shower — it can break and damage hair.
You may have to style your hair with heat for special occasions. If you must heat-style, protect your hair with heat-protecting hair products. [17] X Research source
Whenever possible, avoid chemical treatments for your hair. Wear a swim cap when in the pool to protect your hair. Use hair products formulated for swimmers to replace lost moisture on your scalp and hair if you’re a regular swimmer.
Iron and zinc: These minerals, found in lean red meat, soybeans, and lentils, help your hair follicles to grow. [22] X Research source Protein: Meat, fish, beans, nuts, and yogurt promote cell growth and healing in your hair. [23] X Research source Omega-3 fatty acids: Fatty fish like salmon improve hair’s strength and shine. Additional benefits include depression relief and improved heart health. Biotin: This B vitamin, found in eggs, is important for healthy growth of all cells, including hair. [24] X Research source
Though there is no direct correlation between vitamin supplements and the prevention of hair loss, supplements will help maintain your current hair and body health.
Take up a stress-releasing activity like yoga, meditation, or running. Make room for things you enjoy in your daily routine, and focus on bringing calm and peace into your life. If the stress feels unmanageable, talk to a therapist or counselor to help you release tension and recover from stress.
Do not take Rogaine if you are or plan on becoming pregnant.
The dermatologist will review your medical history and do an exam of your hair and scalp to diagnose the cause of your hair loss. She may also run other tests like a blood test to rule out disease; microscopic examination of a plucked hair; or a skin biopsy.
Are you losing hair only from your scalp or from other parts of your body as well? Do you notice a pattern to the hair loss, like a receding hairline or thinning on the crown, or is the hair loss throughout your head? Do you dye your hair? Do you blow dry your hair? If so, how often? What kind of shampoo do you use on your hair? What other hair products, like gels or sprays, do you put on your hair? Have you had a recent illness or high fever? Have you been under unusual stress lately? Do you have any nervous habits like hair pulling or scalp rubbing? Do you take any medications, including over-the-counter drugs?
Propecia is usually prescribed to men, as it can pose risks of birth defects if used in women who become pregnant.
Never simply stop taking your medication, as this could cause your underlying condition to worsen. If you suffer from a condition like diabetes or thyroid disease, taking proper care of your disorder should reduce or prevent your hair loss.
Local injections: injections of the steroids directly into the hairless patches. Side effects may include temporary pain and temporary depressions in your skin that usually refill on their own. In pill form: Side effects of oral corticosteroids include hypertension, weight gain, and osteoporosis. Because of this, pills are rarely prescribed for alopecia, and only for short periods of time. Topical ointment: Ointments or creams containing steroids can be rubbed directly on the hairless area. These are less traumatic than injections and are often prescribed for children and teens. However, steroid ointments and creams are less effective than injections. Your dermatologist may also prescribe other topical medications to apply to the affected area of your scalp.
