Diffuse Thinning and Hair Loss

Causes of Diffuse Hair Thinning

The causes of diffuse hair thinning are varied and can include hormonal changes, stress, and nutritional deficiencies. While research has not conclusively determined whether genetics play a significant role in this condition, environmental factors are widely recognised as contributing factors.

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is one of the most common causes of diffuse hair thinning. This condition arises when a large number of hair follicles shift into the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair shedding. Typically, human hair follows a cycle of growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and rest (telogen), with a small percentage of hair in the resting phase at any given time. However, in telogen effluvium, this balance is disrupted, and a larger proportion of hair follicles enters the resting phase, resulting in widespread hair loss.

Telogen effluvium can be triggered by several factors, including physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, or significant life changes. The good news is that this form of hair loss is often temporary and resolves once the underlying cause is addressed.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations are another significant contributor to diffuse hair thinning. In particular, changes in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can lead to hair loss. For example, during pregnancy, women often experience an increase in hair thickness due to prolonged anagen phases. However, after childbirth, many women experience a sudden increase in hair shedding as their hormone levels normalise.

The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is also implicated in hair loss. While DHT is commonly associated with male pattern baldness, it can also play a role in diffuse hair thinning in both men and women. When DHT binds to hair follicles, it causes them to shrink, leading to thinner and weaker hair over time.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A well-balanced diet is essential for healthy hair growth, and deficiencies in certain nutrients can contribute to diffuse hair thinning. Iron, zinc, and biotin are particularly important for maintaining hair health. A lack of these essential nutrients can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding and thinning.

It’s worth noting that hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies is often reversible. Once the deficiency is addressed through dietary changes or supplementation, normal hair growth can resume.

Autoimmune Conditions

Although less common, autoimmune conditions can also cause diffuse hair thinning. In these cases, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Conditions such as lupus and alopecia areata are known to cause hair thinning, and those affected may experience generalised shedding rather than distinct bald patches.

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Androgenetic Alopecia In Women

Unlike men, where androgenetic alopecia manifests itself as receding hairline and a thinning crown, in women, it will more typically appear as diffuse thinning where the hormone DHT binds to the hair follicles androgen receptors and reduces the blood supply to the hair over time causing it to miniaturise, frustratingly the main treatment for this in men that blocks the bodies formation of the DHT hormone (Finasteride) is not suitable for women, so treatments that increase blood supply to the area like Minoxidil are recommended instead.

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Identifying Diffuse Hair Thinning

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In its early stages, diffuse hair thinning can be subtle and difficult to detect. Unlike male pattern baldness, which often presents with a receding hairline or a bald spot at the crown, diffuse thinning appears as a gradual reduction in hair density across the entire scalp. Over time, the scalp may become more visible, particularly in areas where hair is naturally thinner, such as the crown or hairline.

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It’s important to distinguish diffuse hair thinning from other hair loss conditions. For example, androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss in men, typically follows a distinct pattern, whereas diffuse thinning affects the entire scalp. Alopecia areata, another hair loss condition, presents as small, round bald patches rather than uniform thinning.

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If you notice an increase in hair shedding, whether on your pillow, in the shower, or in your hairbrush, it may be a sign of diffuse thinning. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or hair specialist to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options.