Hair Fall: Causes, Risks & How to Control It Naturally

Hair fall is one of the most common concerns faced by both men and women today. Whether it’s a few extra strands on your pillow or visible thinning patches, hair loss can be distressing — affecting not just your appearance but also your self-esteem and confidence.

But what exactly causes hair fall, and more importantly, how can you address it naturally and effectively?

Let’s break it down in this evidence-based guide.

🔍 What Is Hair Fall?

Hair fall, or alopecia, refers to the shedding or thinning of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. It is normal to lose 50–100 hairs per day. However, excessive hair loss could signal an underlying issue that needs attention.

🧬 Top Causes of Hair Fall

Based on current clinical evidence and lifestyle trends, here are the most common triggers of hair loss:

1. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal imbalances play a major role in hair fall:

• Pregnancy and postpartum changes
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
• Menopause
• Thyroid disorders
• Androgenic alopecia (genetic hair loss due to excess androgens)

💡 Hormonal fluctuations can shrink hair follicles, shorten the growth phase, and lead to thinning.

2. Stress and Anxiety

High levels of cortisol and adrenaline from chronic stress can:

• Push hair follicles into the resting (telogen) phase
• Interrupt nutrient delivery to the scalp
• Trigger Telogen Effluvium (sudden, widespread hair loss)

🧘 Try stress-reducing practices like yoga, deep breathing, and mindfulness.

3. Unhealthy Diet

Your hair reflects your internal nutritional status. Deficiencies in the following nutrients are strongly linked with hair fall:

• Iron (especially in women)
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B12
• Biotin (B7)
• Zinc
• Protein

🚫 Crash diets, junk food, or skipping meals can worsen hair loss.

4. Medications & Medical Conditions

Several medications and chronic conditions may cause hair fall:

• Thyroid dysfunction (hypo/hyperthyroidism)
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., alopecia areata, lupus)
• Chemotherapy
• Birth control pills
• Antidepressants
• Scalp infections (fungal, bacterial)

📋 A proper medical evaluation can pinpoint reversible causes.

5. Ageing

As you age:

• The rate of hair growth slows down
• Hair strands become thinner and brittle
• Hair follicles shrink and stop producing new hair

This is a natural process, but can be delayed with the right nutrition and care.

6. Styling & Hair Treatments

Frequent styling, heat tools, and chemical products can:

• Strip hair of its natural oils
• Weaken roots and follicles
• Cause traction alopecia (from tight hairstyles)
• Breakage due to repeated heat exposure

✂️ Allow your hair to rest and recover. Go natural when possible.

🩺 Holistic Remedies to Prevent Hair Fall

✅ Nutrition First

Include these foods daily:

• Protein: Eggs, legumes, paneer, chicken
• Iron: Spinach, beetroot, sesame seeds
• Zinc & Biotin: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds
• Omega-3s: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, fish
• Vitamin D: Sunlight, mushrooms, fortified milk

🧘 Manage Stress Naturally

• Practice meditation or yoga (20 mins/day)
• Take regular breaks and nature walks
• Use calming herbs like ashwagandha and brahmi
• Sleep 7–8 hours regularly

💇 Scalp Care Routine

• Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo
• Massage scalp with natural oils (coconut, bhringraj, rosemary) 2–3 times/week
• Avoid hot water for hair washing
• Do not brush wet hair; pat dry gently

🧪 When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a doctor or trichologist if:

• You see bald patches or sudden clumps falling out
• Hair loss continues for more than 3 months
• There’s itching, redness, or pain on the scalp
• You have symptoms of thyroid or anemia

Tests to consider:

• Thyroid profile
• CBC (complete blood count)
• Ferritin levels (iron storage)
• Vitamin D & B12 levels
• Hormonal panel (especially in women)

🧠 Dr. Garg’s Insight:

“Hair loss is never just a cosmetic issue. It’s often a sign of an internal imbalance — nutritional, hormonal, or emotional. At Wellness360, we treat hair fall by treating the whole person.”

🌱 Final Thoughts

Hair fall is common but reversible in most cases — when the root cause is identified. Don’t settle for temporary fixes. Instead, take a 360° approach: support your hormones, nourish your body, reduce stress, and treat your scalp with care.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet
• Avoid heat styling and harsh chemicals
• Address stress with holistic tools
• Check for deficiencies or thyroid problems
• Consult early to prevent long-term damage