According to experts, hair is a reflection of our health. Its condition can reveal a lot about what’s happening in our bodies. New York trichologist Anabel Kingsley explains that hair is incredibly sensitive to internal imbalances.
“This is because hair, at least physically, is not a vital tissue, so our body prioritizes its needs last. Hair cells are the second fastest dividing cells in the body, which means they are quite demanding,” the expert elaborated.
So, what health issues can various hair problems indicate?
Hair Falling Out in Clumps
Shedding about 100 strands of hair a day is normal. However, when you notice more hair loss than usual, it signals potential disorders in the body.
According to Ms. Kingsley, there are several causes of telogen effluvium, which is the common form of hair loss characterized by the daily loss of more than a hundred strands.
The most common factors include iron deficiency, lack of vitamins B12 and D, thyroid disorders, and rapid weight loss. Other contributors to significant hair loss can be poor nutrition, stress, high temperatures, anemia due to low ferritin levels, surgical procedures under general anesthesia, certain medications, and starting or stopping birth control pills.
Sarah Brewer, a well-known British dietitian, shared, “Ferritin is a protein that stores iron; ferritin levels drop when iron levels are low. Meat-eaters are less prone to iron deficiency anemia than those who don’t eat meat.”
She noted that plant-based iron found in legumes and dried fruits is absorbed more effectively when consumed with a source of vitamin C, such as fresh orange juice.
Stress is another cause of telogen effluvium. Dr. Brewer explains that stress hormones cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
In any case, a thorough blood test is necessary, says Ms. Kingsley. “If you notice excessive hair loss for more than three months or if it stops and then starts again, you should see a trichologist,” she added.
It’s also important to pay attention to your diet. It should include iron-rich foods, such as red meat, nuts, dried fruits, and foods high in vitamin B12, including tuna, beef, sardines, and eggs.
Bald Patches on the Scalp
According to British dietitian Amy Benbow, alopecia areata—hair loss in specific areas—can be triggered by autoimmune diseases. This means that the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to localized hair loss.
Research has shown that severe stress can also be a cause of this issue.
For alopecia areata, patients are prescribed topical stimulants, ultraviolet therapy, steroid injections, immunosuppressants, and prescription creams containing vitamin D for local application.
Hair Loss and Thinning in Women
This pattern is most commonly observed in women suffering from hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome, and hyperthyroidism.
Hair loss is also a common symptom of menopause. “This is due to a rapid decrease in estrogen levels, which in turn affects the hair growth cycle,” says Ms. Benbow.
She believes that adequate protein intake and foods rich in phytoestrogens (such as lentils and soy) can help reduce hair loss during this life stage. Additionally, consuming foods high in collagen (like fish, chicken, and eggs) and biotin (nuts, eggs, and root vegetables) can help thicken hair.
Split Ends and Dry Hair
If your hair ends are split and dry, it looks unhealthy. Dryness and split ends are signs of hair damage due to frequent heat styling, excessive chemical treatments, or environmental factors (like wind and sun).
In such cases, experts recommend regular trims. Additionally, using moisturizing products such as leave-in conditioners or oils is beneficial. It’s also advisable to avoid washing hair too frequently, according to the Daily Mail.
Excessively Oily Hair
If your hair looks like it hasn’t been washed in a while, various factors could be at play. For instance, overactive sebaceous glands in hair follicles, hormonal imbalances, or improper care.
Instead of using harsh products, it’s better to wash your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo to remove excess oil without stripping away too much natural moisture.
Dull Hair
Dull hair often indicates a lack of moisture and natural oils. Dullness can be caused by over-washing, frequent heat styling, or nutrient deficiencies in the body.
To combat this issue, use moisturizing and nourishing products, including shampoos and conditioners. Weekly deep conditioning treatments can also be beneficial.
Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health is crucial. This includes vitamins A, C, E, and biotin.