Ever feel like your hairline has moved back a little every time you look in the mirror – you’re not alone. Research shows that nearly 85% of men will experience some form of hair loss during their lifetime.
Moreover, more than 50% of men over the age of 50 experience thinning and partial baldness. Some men start experiencing hair loss as early as their 20s.
One thing is clear: Hair loss in men isn’t uncommon. That said, the reasons vary depending on your age, genetics, medical issues, and lifestyle choices. Here’s a closer look at five common causes of hair loss in men:
1. Genetics
Genetics plays a huge role in hair loss, especially male pattern baldness. If your family has a history of pattern baldness, there is a high chance you will experience it too.
Male pattern baldness primarily affects the top and front of the scalp. It starts with a receding hairline and leads to hair loss around the crown of the head.
Men experience genetic hair thinning as early as their late teens or twenties, though it becomes more noticeable with age. Genetics also influences how quickly your hairline recedes.
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2. Hormones
Hormones (related to genetics) also play a huge role in causing hair loss. The main culprit is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that affects hair follicles by shortening their growth cycle. DHT is the by-product of testosterone and can trigger genetic predispositions for hair loss.
Men who are sensitive to DHT are more likely to experience extensive baldness.
If you suspect your thinning hair is due to a hormonal imbalance, book an appointment with your primary care physician as soon as possible.
3. Medical Conditions
Temporary hair loss is often caused by medical issues, such as:
Alopecia areata – an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. This results in patchy hair loss.
Thyroid disorders – conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disrupt the body’s hormone balance. This leads to thinning hair and excessive shedding.
Chronic illnesses – lupus and diabetes can interfere with natural hair growth. Chronic conditions can also trigger immune responses that may weaken the hair follicles.
4. Stress
Stress is one of the most common yet overlooked causes of hair loss in men. Stress and anxiety can interrupt your body’s natural hair growth cycle.
When you’re stressed, hair follicles go into a resting phase. After a few months, you might notice excessive shedding. This condition is known as telogen effluvium.
The good news? Hair loss caused by stress is often temporary. So, once the stressor is addressed, there is a high chance your hair will stop shedding.
5. Nutrition
You are what you eat — the famous saying applies to your hair growth as well. Nutritional deficiencies can weaken your immune system, leading to hair shedding and baldness. In most cases, inadequate intake of iron, zinc, and B vitamins can contribute to hair loss.