Understanding Hair Thinning: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions

Hair thinning can represent many things about your health, from a symptom of a poor diet to a serious medical condition. Hair thinning and loss can be a part of your genetics, or it can be caused by overusing styling products and heat tools.

Alopecia

• Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that causes your hair to thin and eventually fall out at the crown or sides of your scalp.

Chemical hair products

• Chemical hair products, including dye, bleach and relaxers can weaken the bonds of your hair, which leaves your hair prone to breakage and brittleness.

Diet

• A diet that is lacking in protein can cause hair thinning and loss. Protein is an essential nutrient that maintains the hair's health.

Heat damage

• Heat damage from curling irons, flat irons, blow dryers or even hot water can lead to hair thinning.

Medication

• Medications used to treat depression, high blood pressure and arthritis can cause hair thinning and loss.

Hormones

• Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, menopause or a thyroid disorder can cause hair thinning, according to the Mayo Clinic.