Why Is My Hair Falling Out? The 6 Most Common Causes
Experiencing excessive shedding can be alarming, but most cases are treatable.
The Normal Hair Growth Cycle
Every hair on your head goes through three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). On average, you lose 50–100 hairs per day — this is completely normal. When that number consistently exceeds 100, or you notice visible thinning, it's a sign something has disrupted the cycle.
The 6 Most Common Causes
1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Hereditary Hair Loss)
The most common form of hair loss, affecting roughly 50% of men by age 50 and up to 40% of women by age 70. It's caused by a genetic sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone that shrinks hair follicles over time.
What works: DHT-blocking ingredients at the scalp level (caffeine, saw palmetto, plant stem cell extracts) have shown meaningful clinical results without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical treatments.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
Iron deficiency is the leading nutritional cause of hair loss, especially in women. Deficiencies in biotin, zinc, vitamin D, and protein also disrupt the growth cycle. Crash diets are a common culprit.
What works: Blood tests can identify deficiencies. Topical biotin and zinc (as in our Stemuvita™ formulas) bypass absorption issues by acting directly on the scalp.
3. Chronic Stress (Telogen Effluvium)
Prolonged stress floods the body with cortisol, which can push a large percentage of hair follicles from the growth phase into the resting phase simultaneously. This typically manifests as sudden, diffuse shedding 2–3 months after the stressful event.
What works: Stress management is primary. Topical treatments that stimulate the scalp can help reactivate resting follicles more quickly.
4. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) all affect the hormones that regulate hair growth. Postpartum shedding is the most dramatic — it often starts 3–4 months after delivery and can last up to a year.
What works: In most hormonal cases, hair loss is temporary. Gentle stimulation treatments support faster recovery.
5. Scalp Health Issues
Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp inflammation create an environment hostile to hair growth. Buildup of sebum, product residue, and dead skin cells can block follicle openings.
What works: Scalp-focused cleansers that remove buildup without stripping the scalp's natural protective barrier. Look for sulfate-free formulas.
6. Chemical and Heat Damage
Bleaching, perms, and excessive heat styling weaken the hair shaft and, over time, damage follicles. This type of breakage is often mistaken for hair loss.
What works: Reducing heat exposure and switching to gentler, plant-based cleansing systems.
When to See a Doctor
If hair loss is sudden, patchy (alopecia areata), or accompanied by other symptoms (fatigue, weight changes, brittle nails), see a dermatologist or GP. These can indicate underlying medical conditions.
For the vast majority of cases — gradual thinning, increased shedding, receding hairlines — the answer lies in a consistent, scientifically-formulated scalp care routine.