Hair Loss - Causes

The protein that makes up hair is the same one that is found in nails called keratin. The hairs that we see on the outer layer of our skin are actually dead keratin cells that have been pushed out when new hair cells are produced in the hair follicles of our skin. There are many types and causes of hair loss (or alopecia).  It can be temporary or chronic due to influences from changes in hormone levels, hereditary, certain medications, copious amounts of stress, etc. 

The most common cause for hair loss in men is androgenic alopecia, also called male pattern hair loss. Androgenic alopecia doesnt only apply to men, it applies to women as well.  This common pattern of hair loss seen in men is the forming of an "M" shape in the frontal area due to a receding hairline on each side of the frontal area and on the crown or top of the scalp.

The common pattern of hair loss seen in women is a diffuse thinning from the top of the head down to the back of the head, rarely would women have a receding hairline.

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