Hair loss is a problem, dreaded the world over, by both men and women alike. The pattern of hair loss however, in males and females differs due to the effect of hormones. Hereditary factors also account for hair loss and thinning hair, which explains why some men bald young and some women develop patterned baldness. Apart from hormones and hereditary factors, hair loss can occur due to factors such as chemical treatments on hair, illness, aging or lack of adequate vitamins and minerals in food intake.

In men, the male hormone, testosterone, governs the growth of hair. Male hair loss pattern is generally seen either as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown of the head. It occurs due to hereditary factors or due to a chemical known as DHT (Di-hydro-testosterone), which builds up around hair follicles and eventually kills the follicle and the hair.

In women, signs of hair loss or baldness occur when estrogen levels drop. Estrogen is the female hormone that encourages hair to grow on the head. Pregnancy, childbirth, and illnesses can sometimes affect estrogen levels which in turn causes hair loss. As age advances, hair loss and thinning hair are common problems, which occur again due to the change in the level of estrogen. Many women experience patterned hair loss called Androgenetic Alopecia, which is caused by DHT. As treatment for pattern baldness, many women in their forties take hormone replacement therapy. Apart from the hormone replacement therapy, there are also herbal nutrition supplements, which can be used.

The best hair loss treatment is to keep hair clean and ensure you eat a balanced diet. Although the market is flooded with various types of hair care products, use only high quality products. Using a mild shampoo twice or thrice a week helps you remove dirt and buildup on the hair that can deteriorate the condition of the scalp. Good hair conditioners can prevent dryness that can be otherwise caused by frequent shampooing. Prevent excessive exposure to sun’s UV rays and eat a diet that includes brewer’s yeast, soybeans, green peas, lentils, oats, sunflower, seeds and nutritious nuts.

When it comes to hair loss and hair thinning, control over hereditary factors is limited. But you can ensure effective hair loss treatment by using good hair care products, maintaining your hair and eating healthy and nutritious food.