Causes of Early Baldness

Early baldness, or hair loss (known in English as Alopecia), is a condition that results in the shedding of hair from the scalp or, in some cases, throughout the body. Hair loss can be either permanent or temporary. While it can affect individuals of any gender, it tends to occur more frequently in men than in women. Numerous factors contribute to the onset of early baldness, which are detailed below:

Genetics or Family History

Genetics is the most common cause of hair loss, presenting in a specific, predictable pattern. In men, bald spots appear gradually as the hairline recedes, while women experience a progressive thinning of hair across the crown of the scalp. Conditions related to genetic hair loss include androgenic alopecia, male pattern baldness, and female pattern baldness. According to the American Hair Loss Association, the following statistics highlight the prevalence of genetic hair loss:

Approximately 25% of individuals with hereditary hair loss experience it before reaching the age of 21.
About 66% of men with genetic hair loss will notice changes by the age of 35.
By age 50, around 85% of men with hereditary hair loss will have significant thinning or loss of hair.

Hormonal Disorders

Various conditions can lead to hormonal imbalances, potentially resulting in temporary or permanent hair loss. Examples of these hormonal disorders include:

Pregnancy.
Thyroid disorders.
Menopause.

Health Conditions

Several health issues can contribute to hair loss. Some notable disorders include:

Trichotillomania (the compulsion to pull out one’s own hair).
Scalp infections, such as ringworm.
Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that leads to patchy hair loss.
Iron deficiency.
Excessive vitamin A, often stemming from the use of retinoid medications.
Severe chronic illnesses like diabetes or lupus.

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a common hair loss disorder characterized by moderate shedding from all areas of the scalp. This hair loss may be noticeable on pillows, hairbrushes, or during showering. In most cases, this condition does not result in visible bald patches, although some areas may appear thinner. It typically arises two to three months following significant physical or emotional stress, such as after major surgery, serious illness, or sudden hormonal changes related to childbirth.

Other Causes

Additional factors that may lead to hair loss include:

Medications and dietary supplements: Some drugs and supplements can lead to hair loss as a side effect, including those used for gout, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, arthritis, and cancer.
Diet: A calorie-restricted diet or one that is low in protein can contribute to hair loss.
Radiation therapy: Exposure to radiation treatment on the head can result in hair loss, which may not fully recover after treatment.
Severe stress: Intense emotional or physical trauma can induce temporary hair loss, often noticeable several months after the initial shock.
Hairstyles and treatments: Certain hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair can lead to a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia. Additionally, hair treatments involving hot oils can contribute to shedding, especially if scarring occurs.

Prevention of Early Baldness

While hereditary hair loss cannot be prevented, there are measures that may mitigate other types of hair loss. Consider the following recommendations:

Reduce stress and psychological strain.
Adopt appropriate hairstyling techniques.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Consult a physician about the possibility of switching medications that may cause hair loss to alternatives.
Avoid sharing personal items like hats and hairbrushes to prevent fungal infections that can lead to hair loss.
Quit smoking, as it has been linked to an increased risk of baldness in men.
Protect hair from sun exposure and other sources of ultraviolet rays.
Discuss the use of cooling caps with a healthcare provider if undergoing chemotherapy to reduce the risk of hair loss.

When to Consult a Doctor

It is advisable to seek medical consultation in the following scenarios:

Experiencing persistent hair loss in adults or children.
If a woman notices a receding hairline, early treatment can prevent permanent hair loss.
Sudden hair loss or an increase in shedding beyond the normal range.
Identifying hair loss in specific patches, which may indicate underlying health issues.

Video on Causes of Early Baldness

Early baldness is a common concern among younger individuals, associated with various environmental and genetic factors. Discover the underlying causes here: