If you are suffering from hair loss and are unsure what and why is causing these issues, then you've come to the right place. We've outlined below the main culprits for the most commonly diagnosed types of hair loss and why they contribute to long-term problems.

Genetics

It's in the genes they say, and hair loss is no exception. In fact, hereditary hair loss is the most common form of hair loss, especially in men.

Hair follicles are genetically programmed, part of our genetic makeup so to speak. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as hereditary hair loss or male pattern baldness/female pattern baldness, is caused by genetically predisposed hair follicles that are influenced by a hormone called DHT (more on that below). Note, the hormone itself does not lead to genetic hair loss, but your individual genetic makeup that can come from either side of the family is the central or core contributor that leads to an interruption in normal hair growth.

Hormones

Hormones obviously influence many aspects of how the body functions, but two hormones in particular can contribute to hair loss in both genders.

1. Testosterone - Though testosterone is normally attributed to certain male characteristics (deepening the voice and promoting hair growth in certain areas), the combination of testosterone with a particular enzyme is what leads to the creation of DHT in the human body.
2. Dyhydrotestosterone (DHT) - Is responsible for hair growth on the face and body, as well as some unpleasant occurrences including acne, enlarged prostates and of course male pattern baldness.  It's a scientific fact that the presence of testosterone is required to create DHT, and without the presence of DHT in the hair follicle, there is no hair loss.

Time

Quite simply, with age comes a higher risk of hair loss. Aging and naturally thinning hair are intertwined in many ways, and the reality of advancing age means many of us see the first signs of hair loss at this stage.

Physical Stress

Yanking or tension in the hair as well as over-plucking can all lead to permanent hair loss. This particular hair loss culprit is directly tied to prolonged tension of the hair - cornrows, tight braiding, hair extensions, etc. - and can lead to long-term hair loss problems more often than people realize.

To learn more about the primary causes for hair loss and available treatment options, call us at (888) 724-5129 or schedule a free consultation with one of PAI Medical Indiana's hair restoration experts.