Rising hair fall cases: Experts warn of lifestyle & nutritional deficiencies

KATHMANDU: Hair fall is emerging as a major health concern among men and women, with experts warning that poor nutrition, stress, and excessive use of chemical-based products are leading causes.

While shedding 50 to 100 strands per day is normal, excessive hair fall could indicate underlying health issues that require attention.

Dermatologists and trichologists (hair specialists) report an increasing number of patients suffering from hair loss, with some experiencing premature baldness.

“In the past, hair thinning and baldness were considered an age-related issue, but today, we are seeing young adults—even teenagers—struggling with severe hair loss,” said Dr. Anjana Sharma, a leading dermatologist in Kathmandu.

Why Is Hair Fall Increasing?

Hair loss can be attributed to multiple factors, with lifestyle choices playing a significant role. Experts highlight the following key reasons:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients such as iron, protein, biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin D, and Omega-3 fatty acids weakens hair follicles, making them prone to shedding. “People who follow restrictive diets or consume highly processed foods often suffer from hair fall,” said Dr. Sharma.

2. Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and post-pregnancy hormonal changes can trigger hair thinning. Women experiencing menopause or those on birth control pills may also notice increased hair fall due to hormonal fluctuations.

3. Chronic Stress & Lifestyle Factors: Mental stress, poor sleep quality, smoking, and alcohol consumption contribute to Telogen Effluvium, a condition where hair follicles enter a resting phase, leading to excessive shedding. The rise in work-related stress and modern sedentary lifestyles have exacerbated this issue.

4. Harsh Hair Treatments & Styling Products: Frequent use of heat styling tools, hair dyes, and chemical-laden shampoos weakens hair strands over time. Dr. Sharma explains, “Many people unknowingly damage their hair by using sulfates, parabens, and alcohol-based products. Even excessive shampooing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.”

5. Genetics & Medical Conditions: Hereditary hair loss, also known as Androgenetic Alopecia, is a major factor, particularly in men. Certain autoimmune diseases like Alopecia Areata can also lead to sudden patchy hair loss.

6. Environmental Pollution: Air pollution, exposure to UV rays, and hard water damage hair cuticles, making hair brittle and prone to shedding. Urban areas, where pollution levels are high, report more cases of hair-related issues.

How to Prevent Hair Fall?

Dermatologists recommend a holistic approach to maintaining healthy hair, which includes:

✔️ Balanced Diet: Consume protein-rich foods (eggs, fish, nuts, and dairy) along with iron, zinc, and vitamin supplements if needed.
✔️ Mild Hair Care Routine: Use sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoos. Avoid excessive washing and harsh styling.
✔️ Scalp Massage & Natural Oils: Regular head massages with coconut oil, castor oil, or rosemary oil improve blood circulation and strengthen roots.
✔️ Stress Management: Practicing yoga, meditation, and regular exercise helps reduce cortisol (stress hormone), preventing stress-induced hair loss.
✔️ Hydration & Sleep: Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily and maintaining 7-8 hours of quality sleep is essential for hair health.

Best Treatments for Hair Fall

For those facing persistent hair loss, experts suggest the following medical interventions:

🔹 Minoxidil (Topical Solution): FDA-approved medication that stimulates hair growth and slows hair thinning.
🔹 Finasteride (For Men): An oral medication that prevents testosterone-related hair loss.
🔹 Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A procedure where a patient’s blood is processed to extract growth factors, which are then injected into the scalp to promote hair regrowth.
🔹 Hair Transplant Surgery: For severe cases, hair transplant techniques like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) offer permanent solutions.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Experts advise seeking a dermatologist if:
✅ Hair loss is excessive, sudden, or patchy.
✅ There is noticeable thinning or bald spots.
✅ Scalp irritation, dandruff, or redness accompanies hair fall.
✅ Hair loss continues for more than six months despite home remedies.

With hair fall cases on the rise, specialists emphasize early diagnosis and proper care as the key to preventing irreversible damage.