Why Am I Losing Hair? Understanding the Different Causes

“Why am I losing hair?” is a question with several genuinely different answers, and the treatment that works for one cause often does nothing for another. Before reaching for a generic hair-fall shampoo, it’s worth understanding the main categories.

Genetic Pattern Hair Loss

The most common cause in both men and women, driven by genetic sensitivity to hormonal factors that gradually shrink hair follicles over time. It follows a recognizable pattern — receding hairline and crown thinning in men, diffuse thinning or a widening part in women — and progresses gradually rather than suddenly.

Temporary Shedding From Stress or Illness

A significant physical or emotional stressor — illness, surgery, high fever, major life stress — can push a larger-than-usual portion of hair into its resting phase simultaneously, causing noticeable shedding two to three months later. This is usually self-limiting and resolves within six to twelve months once the trigger has passed.

Nutritional and Hormonal Factors

Iron deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, and hormonal conditions like PCOS can all contribute to hair thinning, and these are identified through a proper history and, where indicated, blood investigations — not guesswork.

Why the Distinction Matters

Treating genetic pattern hair loss and treating deficiency-related shedding call for entirely different approaches. Using the wrong one for months doesn’t just waste time — for progressive genetic hair loss specifically, early treatment has more existing hair to work with, so delay while trying the wrong approach has a real cost.

If you’re noticing increased shedding or thinning, an evaluation that identifies which of these categories applies to you is the most useful first step, well before choosing a specific product or treatment.