Hair loss is typically associated with aging, but lots of people experience thinning hair as early as their 20s. Early hair loss can be alarming, but it's not the end of the world! At Mane Image, combating hair loss is our specialty, and we believe that knowledge is power. That's why we help our clients determine the underlying cause as well as the solution for hair loss at any age.
There are a lot of factors that affect the growth of your hair. From health issues to outside influences to hereditary predisposition, there are endless potential causes for hair loss. So, if you're experiencing early hair loss and thinking "I'm too young to go bald," we've got some answers that will help you understand the cause of your premature hair loss. Not only that, this information will help you determine if changes in your lifestyle could help reverse your hair loss.
Read on to learn about the top five reasons you might be experiencing hair loss in your 20's!
Genetic Predisposition
The number one reason for early hair loss is hereditary. Simply put, common pattern baldness cannot occur without specific inherited genes. Often, the inherited traits that lead to alopecia areata (colloquially known as pattern baldness) are those associated with weak autoimmune systems or autoimmune disorders. Yes, hair loss can be inherited, but don't freak out, it can also be treated!
Autoimmune Disorders
As we mentioned, alopecia areata is triggered by autoimmune disorders. If your autoimmune system is malfunctioning it could be mistakenly attacking the healthy cells of your hair follicles. Autoimmune-related hair loss occurs when white blood cells attack the follicles, interrupting normal growth patterns and sending the hair cycle into a prolonged telogen (dormant) phase. Autoimmune disorders can be treated with steroids and a number of treatments are effective in reversing autoimmune-related hair loss.
Poor Nutrition
A little known (and often ignored) reason for hair loss is poor diet and malnutrition. If you aren't providing your body with the right nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, you may very well see thinning, unhealthy hair. The health of your hair is an indicator of your overall health, after all, so fill your diet with lean proteins, fresh leafy greens, and don't skimp on the multivitamins and supplements. Healthy hair and properly functioning follicles requires sufficient supplies of iron, vitamin B12, zinc, protein, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Stress
Undue stress, depression, and extreme changes in weight can all lead to hair loss. Any kind of excessive stress can throw off the balance of your physiology. Stress-induced hair loss can lead to the autoimmune disorders that cause alopecia areata as well as the shutting down of the normal cycle of hair growth.
Thyroid Disease
Another possible culprit of early hair loss is an overactive or underactive thyroid. Hair loss is, more often than not, an indicator of larger health issues in the body and the thyroid problems can go unnoticed if you don't know the signs of malfunction. Thyroid problems are accompanied by dry, puffy skin, hair loss of the head and eyebrows, and constant fatigue.
We Can Help!
If you're in your 20's and struggling with hair loss, there's hope! Mane Image offers customized hair loss solutions for every stage of hair loss. Our staff is highly-trained, friendly, and discreet, providing an experience that is tailored to your needs.
Don't let hair loss slow you down! Every kind of hair loss has a solution (especially if you know the cause) and we're ready to help. Please contact us for a free consultation! We can't wait to help you regain your hair and your confidence.
