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Hair loss can be a concern for many men, not only over the age of 50 but younger men too. Causes range from genetics to underlying medical conditions, lifestyle choices and others. Should you notice a receding hairline or thinning hair at the crown of your head, the first thing to remember is that you are not alone! In fact, studies suggest that approximately 85% of men experience significantly thinning hair by the age of 50. Still, you might still be wondering: what causes hair loss in the first place? Let’s break it down.

What is Hair Loss?

Brushing your hair and seeing hair in your brush isn’t an automatic cause for concern. It’s normal to lose roughly 100 hairs a day, but these are replaced by new ones. It’s when the cycle of regrowth is disrupted, and the follicle is damaged beyond repair that hair loss occurs.

Top causes for hair loss…

There are many causes for hair loss but we will discuss the main ones. For the majority of adult males, hair loss is more or less a fact of life (thanks parents), but that doesn’t mean there isn’t any other causes to consider…

Genetics

If you have close family members who are balding, you’re more likely to have it, too.

Doctors aren’t completely sure why certain hormonal changes cause hair follicles to shrink, or why the balding process gradually happens in the same pattern for most men. But it usually starts with a thinning of the hairline above your temples and crown.

Stress or Shock

Sudden or excessive weight loss, a severe physical or emotional shock, surgery, or any other sudden change to the body can bring hair loss that could last several months.

Medical issues

Temporary hair loss can be a sign of a medical issue, like anemia or thyroid problems. A diet low in protein and iron can also cause your hair to thin as your body is using what’s there to fuel other parts of your body.

Your risk for hair loss is higher if you have diabetes or lupus.

Hair loss could be a side effect of certain drugs you take such as:

  • Cancer (also radiation or chemotherapy can cause hair loss)
  • Arthritis
  • Depression
  • Gout
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart problems

Infection

Things like ringworm can create scaly patches on the scalp and bald spots, however the hair usually grows back after treatment.

Grooming

Wearing a ponytail, bun, braids, or cornrows where the hair next to the scalp is pulled tightly can cause temporary hair loss called traction alopecia.

Myths

There’s many a story out there for what might cause hair loss, but rest assured, these below are purely myth. For example:

  • Wearing a cap or hat may give you “hat hair,” but it does not lead to hair loss.
  • Swimming in a chlorinated pool or salt water.
  • Sunscreen won’t make your hair fall out, but it will protect the areas where your hairline has receded.
  • Hot styling tools may cause your hair to be more brittle, but they won’t lead to permanent hair loss.

Sign up with Stagger today to get your Hair Loss treatments delivered discreetly to your door.


This guide is designed to be informative and educational. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace advice from your medical practitioner.