Understanding the Causes of Hair Loss: What You Need to Know

Hair loss affects millions of men and women worldwide and can have a profound impact on confidence, self-image, and overall well-being. At Renovo Hair Restoration & Wellness, we believe knowledge is the first step toward effective treatment. Understanding the why behind hair loss helps us design the right solutions for your unique needs.

Below, we’ll explore the most common causes of hair loss and how they can affect your scalp and hair health.

1. Genetics (Androgenetic Alopecia)

The most common cause of hair loss is hereditary, often referred to as male-pattern or female-pattern baldness. It typically presents as:

• Receding hairline and thinning crown in men

• Diffuse thinning along the part or crown in women

This type of hair loss is progressive and linked to sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles over time.

2. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a major role in hair growth and shedding. Imbalances can be temporary or long-term, and may occur due to:

• Pregnancy & postpartum changes

• Menopause

• Thyroid conditions (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

These shifts can trigger diffuse thinning or sudden shedding.

3. Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions can directly impact hair growth:

• Autoimmune disorders: Alopecia areata, lupus, or other conditions where the immune system attacks hair follicles.

• Chronic illnesses: Diabetes, anemia, or liver disease can disrupt the hair cycle.

• Scalp conditions: Fungal infections, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis may weaken follicles.

4. Medications & Treatments

Hair loss can be a side effect of specific medications, including:

• Chemotherapy drugs

• Antidepressants

• Blood thinners

• Blood pressure medications

• Certain acne or hormone-related treatments

Often, once the medication is stopped, hair growth may gradually return.

5. Stress (Telogen Effluvium)

Emotional or physical stress can push hair into the resting (telogen) phase, leading to sudden, diffuse shedding. Triggers may include:

• Major illness or surgery

• Trauma or high emotional stress

• Rapid weight loss or restrictive dieting

The good news: this type of hair loss is often temporary once the underlying cause is addressed.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair follicles require nutrients to thrive. Deficiencies in the following may lead to thinning or shedding:

• Iron & Vitamin D

• Zinc

• B vitamins (especially biotin)

• Protein

Crash diets, poor nutrition, or digestive issues can all interfere with proper absorption.

7. Lifestyle Factors

Everyday habits can also affect scalp and hair health:

• Overuse of heat styling tools

• Tight hairstyles (traction alopecia)

• Harsh chemical treatments

• Smoking and excessive alcohol use

8. Aging

As we age, hair naturally becomes finer and grows at a slower rate. Follicles gradually shrink, and hair density decreases, which is a normal part of the aging process.

The Takeaway

Hair loss has many causes, and no two cases are exactly the same. At Renovo Hair Restoration & Wellness, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your hair loss through advanced diagnostics and offering personalized solutions—from scalp treatments and medical therapies to regenerative procedures and wellness support.

Healthy, thriving hair starts with understanding your unique story. If you’re experiencing thinning or shedding, our team is here to guide you toward restoration, confidence, and long-term results.