How Quickly Does Our Hair Grow?
Hair grows from its follicle at an average rate of a 1/2 inch per month. Each hair grows for 2 to 6 years, then rests, and then falls out. A new hair soon begins growing in its place. At any one time, about 85% of the hair is growing and 15% is resting.
Types Of Stresses Causing Thinning Hair
1. Death of family member, friend or spouse
2. Accident
3. Intense work related stress
4. Financial problems
5. Divorce
6. Major illness or surgery
Temporary Hair Loss
The good news is that stress related hair loss (telogen effluvium) is temporary. In fact, due to the nature of the hair growth cycle, by the time you hair starts to shed heavily, your stress related problem may have already been resolved.
DHT, Main Cause of Hair Loss
DHT is a hormone that is believed to be the main cause of genetic hair loss in men. DHT is formed when an enzyme called 5 alpha reductase interacts with testosterone. Although DHT mostly occurs in men, it can be present in women with hormone and testosterone imbalances.
Hair Loss: Androgenetic Alopecia
The most common type of hair loss seen in women is androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia or baldness. This is seen as hair thinning predominantly over the top and sides of the head. It affects approximately one-third of all susceptible women, but is most commonly seen after menopause, although it may begin as early as puberty. Normal hair fall is approximately 100-125 hairs per day. Fortunately, these hairs are replaced. True hair loss occurs when lost hairs are not regrown or when the daily hair shed exceeds 125 hairs. Genetically, hair loss can come from either parents side of the family.
Myths Related to Hair Loss:
1. Frequent shampooing contributes to hair loss.
2. Hats and wigs cause hair loss.
3. 100 strokes of the hair brush daily will create healthier hair.
4. Permanent hair loss is caused by perms, colors and other cosmetic treatments.
5. Women are expected to develop significant hair loss if they are healthy.
6. Shaving one's head will cause the hair to grow back thicker.
7. Standing on one's head will cause increased circulation and thereby stimulate hair growth!
8. Dandruff causes permanent hair loss.
We lose a certain amount of hair every day, but dramatic hair loss and poor condition are often signs of an underlying clinical problem.
Can Your Diet Give You Temporary Hair Loss?
Temporary hair loss or thinning can be triggered by dietary imbalance, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, stress or shock. In women it may occur after pregnancy or during menopause as a result of hormonal changes.