The truth about hair thinning – is there a cure?

What Is Hair Thinning? 

So, what is hair thinning? When you start losing your hair, maybe you‘ll notice your hair is thinner than it used to be and that your scalp is more visible. Some people call this balding; others call it hair thinning. It’s frustrating when you begin to lose your hair, but we are here to help and provide information on how to fix it.

Hair thinning refers to reducing the amount of hair on the scalp, resulting in decreased hair density. In hair thinning, the hair shaft becomes finer, shorter, and less dense over time, reducing overall hair volume. Hair thinning can have various causes, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, poor nutrition, stress, certain hairstyles, and hair treatment for thin hair.

Hair thinning diagnosis is typically based on medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment varies according to the underlying cause and may include medications, hair restoration surgery, or changes in hairstyle or hair care practices. 

Symptoms Of Hair Thinning? 

The symptoms of hair thinning can differ depending on the underlying cause, but some common signs include the following:

1. Gradual reduction in hair volume: When hair thins, there are fewer hairs on the scalp, which can reduce hair volume. The hair may appear sparse and limp, lacking the fullness and body it once had. This can be especially noticeable when hair is styled in a certain way, such as pulled back or in an updo, where the scalp may be more visible. 
2. Increased hair shedding: Hair thinning can often be accompanied by increased hair shedding, which can further decrease hair volume. Hair shedding occurs when hairs naturally fall out from the scalp and are replaced by new hairs. This process is normal and appears regularly for most people, but excessive hair shedding can lead to a noticeable decrease in hair volume. Hair thinning reasons can include genetics, aging, hormonal changes, stress, medical conditions, and certain medications, which can cause increased hair shedding. When hair shedding is excessive, it can cause a reduction in the overall number of hairs on the scalp, leading to hair thinning. This reduction in the number of strands can decrease hair volume and the appearance of sparse, limp hair. Sometimes, hair shedding can be treated with medications, changes in lifestyle, or other remedies. However, in some cases, hair shedding may result from an underlying medical condition and may require medical treatment to address the underlying cause. Consulting with a doctor or hair loss specialist can help determine the cause of excessive hair shedding and the best course for restoring hair volume.
3. Widening of the hair part: If you have hair thinning, you may notice a wider than usual part in your hair or a see-through area on the scalp. A hair part is the separation between two sections of hair on the scalp, usually created when the hair is combed or styled. When hair thins, the scalp may become more visible, causing the hair part to widen and the hair to appear less full. The widening of the hair part can be especially noticeable when the hair is styled in a certain way, such as pulled back or styled in an updo, where the scalp may be more visible. This can lead to a decreased overall appearance of hair volume and fullness. In addition to widening the hair part, thin hair problems can also reduce the overall size and thickness of individual hairs, further contributing to the loss of hair volume. Various factors, including genetics, aging, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and certain medications, can cause hair thinning.
4. Bald spots: These are areas of the scalp where hair has stopped growing and no longer covers the skin. When hair thins, the scalp may become more visible in certain areas, leading to the development of bald spots. In some cases, bald spots can result from hair loss conditions such as alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in patches. Bald spots can significantly decrease hair volume, as the hair is no longer present to cover the scalp. The absence of hair in certain areas can also create a noticeable difference in hair thickness, causing the hair to appear patchy and uneven.
5. Brittle or fragile hair: When hair begins to thin, it can become weaker and more susceptible to damage, leading to brittle or fragile hair. This occurs due to several factors, such as reduced hair volume and thickness, decreased blood flow to the hair follicles, and reduced production of natural oils that help to protect and nourish the hair. Brittle or fragile hair is prone to breaking and splitting, resulting in an uneven and patchy appearance. This can further contribute to the cause of thinning hair and loss, as the hair cannot grow as vital and healthy as it once was. To address brittle or fragile hair, it is essential to maintain a healthy hair care routine, including regular deep conditioning treatments and avoiding excessive heat styling and chemical treatments.
   
   

What Causes Hair Thinning? 

Before starting any treatment, knowing the root cause behind the given issue is essential. Hair getting thinner can be caused due to various problems, according to which the treatment varies too. Here are some common causes of hair thinning:

• Genetics: Genetics can play a significant role in hair thinning, as some hair loss conditions are hereditary. One of the most common forms of genetic hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. Both men and women are affected by this condition, which is caused by genetic and hormonal factors. People with a genetic predisposition to hair thinning can be more sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can shrink hair follicles and cause hair to be thin. The hair follicles can eventually shrink to the point where they cannot produce new hair, leading to hair thinning and baldness.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can significantly impact the growth and health of hair, leading to thin hair strands. Hormonal imbalances and fluctuations can cause changes in the hair growth cycle, reducing the thickness and volume of hair. Some of the most common hormonal changes affecting hair include pregnancy, menopause, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications. 
• Poor nutrition: Poor nutrition can play a significant role in hair thinning, as the hair needs a balanced diet to grow and maintain its strength and thickness. A diet that is lacking in nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, and proteins, can cause hair to become thin and brittle and may even lead to hair loss. Some critical nutrients for healthy hair include iron, vitamins B and D, biotin, and zinc. 
• Stress: Stress can play a significant role in hair thinning, as it can impact the hair growth cycle and reduce the thickness and volume of hair. A hormone called cortisol is released by stress, which leads to changes in the hair growth cycle, thus causing hair loss. During periods of high pressure, hair may enter a resting phase, during which it stops growing and can eventually fall out. This type of hair loss is commonly known as telogen effluvium, and it can result in widespread hair thinning. Stress can also lead to changes in nutrition and sleep patterns, which can further impact hair health and lead to hair loss.
• Hairstyles and hair treatments: Hairstyles and hair treatments can also play a role in hair thinning. Tight hairstyles, such as braids, cornrows, and tight buns, can stress the hair shafts and follicles, resulting in hair breakage and hair loss. This hair loss is commonly known as traction alopecia, which can result in thinning hair around the hairline, temples, and crown. Also, harsh chemical treatments, such as relaxers, coloring, and perming, can damage the hair and lead to hair breakage and loss.
  
  

Hair Thinning In Men Vs. Women 

Hair thinning in women and men can have different causes and presentations. Some differences include the following:

1. Causes: In men, male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss. A combination of hormones and genetics causes this condition. In women, hair thinning is often caused by various factors, including hormonal changes, genetics, stress, and medical conditions.
2. Pattern of hair loss: Male pattern baldness typically results in thin hair on top of head and temples, with a thinning hairline. Women with hair thinning may experience a general reduction in hair volume all over the scalp & hair thinning in front. 
3. Age of onset: Hair thinning at scalp in men often begins in their late teens or early twenties, while hair thinning in women is more likely to occur later in life, often around menopause.
4. Hormonal factors: Women's hair thinning can be caused by hormonal changes, which occur during menopause, pregnancy, and thyroid problems. Testosterone, the male hormone, is a crucial factor in male pattern baldness.

It's important to note that hair thinning can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and it can impact a person's self-esteem and quality of life. Treatments for hair thinning can vary depending on the cause and the individual but may include medications, hair restoration surgery, or changes in hairstyle or hair care practices.

How is hair thinning connected to hair loss?

Here are some critical ways that hair thinning is connected to hair loss:

• Gradual reduction in hair density: Hair thinning refers to a gradual decrease in hair density, resulting in finer, shorter, and less dense hair. This can lead to a decrease in overall hair volume, making the hair appear thinner.
• Increased vulnerability to breakage and shedding: As hair follicles become finer and less dense in hair thinning, they become more vulnerable to breakage and shedding, resulting in hair loss.
• Progression to bald spots: In severe cases of hair thinning, hair loss may become so pronounced that bald spots start to develop on the scalp.
• Common underlying causes: Both h[air loss and hair thinning can be caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, poor nutrition, stress, and certain hairstyles and hair treatments.
• Requirement for medical intervention: It's essential to seek medical advice if you are experiencing hair loss or thinning, as there may be an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed.
• Potential for management and reversal: With the proper treatment and care, hair loss and thinning can often be managed and reversed. Options for treatment can include medications, hair restoration surgery, or changes in hairstyle or hair care practices.
  
  

Treatments for Hair Thinning

Here are some common treatments for hair thinning:

Medications

Treating hair thinning through medications may vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are some of the medicines commonly used for the treatment of hair thinning:

1. Minoxidil: Minoxidil is a topical medication applied directly to the scalp. It is FDA-approved for treating androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. It stimulates hair growth by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. 

2. Finasteride: It is an oral medication that is used for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. It works by blocking the production of DHT, a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and causes hair loss.

3. Corticosteroids: Known to treat alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss, corticosteroids can treat hair loss. Corticosteroids can be applied topically or injected into the scalp to help slow or stop hair loss.

4. Iron supplements: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss, and supplementing with iron can help reverse this type of hair loss.

5. Biotin: Biotin is a B vitamin essential for healthy hair growth. Taking biotin supplements can help improve hair health and promote hair growth.

Hair restoration surgery

Hair restoration surgery is a cosmetic surgery used to treat hair loss. The two most common types of hair restoration surgery are hair transplants and scalp reduction surgery.

• Hair Transplants:  Hair transplant has long been used as a go-to treatment for balding, hair thinning, and hair fall. The whole procedure consists of transplanting healthy hair from one area of the scalp and transplanting them into the affected area. 

• Scalp Reduction Surgery: Scalp reduction surgery involves removing a section of the bald scalp and stretching the remaining skin to cover the bald area. This procedure can help to reduce the amount of visible scalp and increase the amount of hair on the head.

Both hair transplant and scalp reduction surgery can produce natural-looking results. Still, they also come with risks and potential complications, such as scarring, infection, and changes in skin sensation. It is essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of hair restoration surgery with a doctor to determine if it is the right choice for you.

Changes in hairstyle or hair care practices

Hairstyle and hair care practices can play a role in bringing out the health of your hair and can be used as a treatment for hair thinning. Here are some changes in hairstyle or hair care practices that can help convert thin hair to thick hair:

• Avoid tight hairstyles: Hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair, such as braids, cornrows, and tight ponytails, can cause hair to break or fall out. Looser hairstyles, such as a low bun or loose braid, can help reduce hair stress.

• Limiting heat styling: High heat from hair dryers, straightening irons, and curling wands can damage the hair. Restricting the use of heat styling tools or heat protectant products can help reduce heat damage to the hair.

• Using gentle hair care products: Avoid harsh products that contain sulfates, such as shampoos and conditioners. These products strip hair of its natural oils and can cause it to fall out. Switching to gentler hair care products, such as sulfate-free ones, can help improve your hair's health.

• Massaging the scalp: Massaging the scalp can help to improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, which can help to promote hair growth.

• Avoiding chemical treatments: Chemical treatments, such as perms, dyes, and relaxers, can damage the hair and make it more prone to breakage. If you must use chemical treatments,

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

It is a non-surgical treatment in which a person's blood is processed to concentrate growth factors and then injected into the scalp to promote hair growth.

• Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to stimulate hair growth.

• Nutritional supplements: Taking supplements that contain vitamins and minerals essential for hair health, such as biotin and iron, can help to improve hair health.

• Scalp micro pigmentation: This cosmetic treatment involves depositing tiny amounts of pigment into the scalp to give the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.

Home Remedies For Hair Thinning

Listed below are some of the home remedies for thinning hair that may help with hair thinning:

Avocado and Olive Oil Hair Mask

Ingredients 

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 egg yolk

Instructions:

1. Scope out and mash the avocado in a bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Add the olive oil and egg yolk to the mashed avocado and mix well.
3. Apply it directly to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover the entire length of your hair.
4. Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes.
5. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water.
6. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

Banana and Yogurt Hair Mask

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

1. Peel and mash the banana in a bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Add the yogurt and honey to the mashed banana and mix well.
3. Apply it to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover the entire length of your hair.
4. Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes.
5. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water.
6. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

Egg and Lemon Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions:

1. Beat the eggs in a bowl.
2. Add the lemon juice to the beaten eggs and mix well.
3. Apply it to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover the entire length of your hair.
4. Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes.
5. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water.
6. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

Coconut Milk and Honey Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons of honey

Instructions:

1. Mix the honey & coconut milk in a bowl.
2. Apply it to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover the entire length of your hair.
3. Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes.
4. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water.
5. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

Aloe Vera and Castor Oil Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
• 2 tablespoons of castor oil

Instructions:

1. Mix the castor oil & aloe vera gel in a bowl.
2. Apply it to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover the entire length of your hair.
3. Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes.
4. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water.
5. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

These homemade hair masks can promote hair growth and reduce hair thinning because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Regular use of these masks can help to nourish the hair and improve its health. Remember that these home remedies may not work for everyone, and the best approach will depend on the underlying cause of hair thinning. 

What Nourish Mantra Offers? 

Nourish mantra has offered two natural and practical solutions for hair care for thinning hair. Listed below are the two best-selling products for thinning hair: 

Advanced Hair Growth Serum 

Nourish Mantra's Advanced Hair Growth Serum is a powerful solution for hair fall, thinning, and baldness. Infused with scientifically-proven ingredients like Redensyl, Anagain, Procapil, and Rice Water, this hair tonic revitalizes hair health by addressing major hair concerns caused by aging and environmental factors. The nourishing formula strengthens hair shafts, conditions hair, and stimulates growth, making it suitable for all genders and hair types. Say goodbye to hair worries and hello to a fuller, stronger head of hair with Nourish Mantra's Advanced Hair Growth Serum.

Cosmic Sutra Hair Oil 

Nourish Mantra's Cosmic Sutra Hair Oil is a unique blend of Ayurvedic and modern ingredients that guarantees hair fall control while profoundly nourishing your scalp. Argan Oil, Vitamin E, and Gotukola provide essential moisture, resulting in thick, shiny, and healthy hair. The oil for thinning hair has a soothing scent that calms the mind, body, and soul, providing relief after a long day. The therapeutic properties of the hair oil improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth. This weekly treat is made with organic plant-derived ingredients and is free of harmful chemicals like Silicones, Parabens, Mineral Oil, and Dyes. Safe for colored and chemically treated hair, Nourish Mantra's Cosmic Sutra Hair Oil will leave your hair feeling stronger and healthier.

FAQ's

Q. Can stress cause hair thinning? 

1. Yes, stress can cause hair thinning as it can cause hair follicles to enter a resting phase and halt hair growth.

Q. Is hair thinning reversible?

1. hair thinning can sometimes be reversed by addressing the underlying cause, such as treating a medical condition or changing lifestyle habits.

Q. Is hair thinning common? 

1. Yes, hair thinning is a common condition that affects many people, especially as they age.

Q. Can hair thinning be prevented? 

1. In some cases, hair thinning can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, reducing stress levels, and avoiding exposure to environmental pollutants.

Q. Can hair thinning be a symptom of a more serious condition? 

1. Yes, hair thinning can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder, autoimmune disease, or iron-deficiency anemia.