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Hair loss

Hair loss, thinning and scalp issues affect millions of men and women. For some, the impact goes beyond the physical, affecting confidence and wellbeing. Here you will find expert insights and practical tips to support your journey.

MALE

PATTERN
BALDNESS

It is estimated that around

6.5 million men

in the UK are affected by hair loss (specifically male pattern baldness).¹

FEMALE

PATTERN
HAIR LOSS

By the age of 50, about

13% of women

are estimated to have androgenetic alopecia (female pattern baldness) in the UK.²

Ultimate advice for hair loss

Stress

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Stress plays a big role in hair loss. The stress hormone cortisol disrupts the hair growth cycle and reduces the blood nutrient supply to the hair follicles, causing hair thinning.

Medicine

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Medications including blood thinners, beta-blockers, antidepressants, some anti-seizure medicines, retinoids (high-dose vitamin A) and certain hormonal contraceptives, can all contribute to reduced hair growth, hair loss or thinning.

UV damage

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Excessive sunlight exposure to the scalp can weaken the hair shaft. Ensure you wear a sun hat to cover the scalp in times of excessive sun exposure.

Hormone imbalances

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Hormonal imbalances, especially an increase in the toxic form of testosterone (dehydrotestosterone) and a decrease in oestrogen and progesterone. Menopause is a time when women notice some hair thinning and loss. Menopause support supplements and an inclusion of phytoestrogenic foods may be helpful.

Autoimmune alopecia

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When autoimmune antibodies attack the hair follicles and cause hair to fall out. To really improve this condition, the immune system needs to be calmed down and the hair follicles need additional support. If you have autoimmune alopecia, we recommend you seek professional help.

Nutrient deficiencies

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Nutrient deficiencies especially in iron, iodine, zinc and biotin, can slow down hair growth and can cause hair thinning. Iron is needed for normal blood flow to the scalp.

Harsh hair treatments

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Harsh hair treatments such as bleaching, perms and overuse of heat styling damage the hair shaft or the hair root. Ask your stylist if there are gentler ways to get the look that you desire.

Thyroid disorders

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The thyroid is responsible for regulating the metabolism. If the thyroid is not working to its full potential, hair growth won’t be at its full potential.

Fungal and bacterial infections

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Infections can affect the scalp and damage the hair follicles, leading to bald patches or thinning. Some topical solutions may help in killing the infectious pathogens; however, you will need to support your immune system and the hair follicles themselves.

Inflammatory skin conditions

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Conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and seborrhoeic dermatitis are induced inflammations, either due to autoimmune antibodies or elevated histamine levels which can affect hair.

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy

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Chemotherapy and radiotherapy destroy quickly dividing cells in an attempt to destroy cancer cells. Hair is also a quickly dividing cell, and such therapies can cause hair loss.

Crash diets and rapid weight loss

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When crash diets are undertaken, or rapid weight loss occurs, it creates an environment of stress in the body. Since hair growth isn’t necessary for survival, it won’t be a priority for the body.

Compulsive hair-pulling disorder

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Compulsive hair-pulling can affect both adults and children. Adults may need professional therapist support to get to the root cause of the problem. Children may need to be given another way to comfort themselves or take out their frustration.

Diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

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PCOS, insulin resistance, and diabetes can increase the level of testosterone, which can lead to male pattern baldness in men and women.

Traction alopecia from hair loss from tight hairstyles

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When hair is constantly pulled out from hairstyles (braids, ponytails, extensions), the eventual result may be bald patches. Experiment with different hairstyles that don’t pull on the scalp. Some topical and supplemental therapy may be needed to encourage hair regrowth.

Eating disorders including anorexia or bulimia

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Nutrient deficiencies often result in cases of eating disorders and may cause hair growth to slow down.

Burns, surgery or severe trauma can induce localised hair loss

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Unfortunately, hair loss due to tissue damage and scarring tends to be more permanent.

Exposure to toxins such as heavy metals or industrial chemicals

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Environmental toxins (lead, arsenic) may cause direct damage to the hair follicles as well as indirectly by causing oxidative damage.

Best foods for hair loss & thinning

Hair growth cycle

ANAGEN

CATAGEN

TELOGEN

ANAGEN RESTART

2–6 YEARS

2 WEEKS – 1 MONTH

3–5 MONTHS

Growth phase

The follicle is actively
producing hair.

Transition phase

Growth slows and the
follicle begins to shrink.

Resting phase

The follicle is inactive while
a new hair forms.

New cycle begins

Fresh growth starts as the
old hair sheds.