As if acne, mood swings, and studying for exams weren’t enough, hair loss is another stressor that many teenagers have to deal with.
While it’s normal to lose around 50-100 strands of hair a day, some teens may experience excessive hair shedding, which can be a sign of an underlying health condition.
So, what causes hair loss in teenagers? Let’s take a look.
Hormonal Imbalance
One of the most common reasons for hair loss in teenagers is a hormonal imbalance. The body goes through a lot of changes during puberty, which can cause the levels of androgens (male hormones) to increase. This can lead to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hirsutism (excessive hair growth), both of which can cause hair loss.
Stress
Stress is another major factor that can contribute to hair loss in teenagers. Whether it’s the stress of dealing with school, family, or friends, too much stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, in which the hair follicles go into a resting phase and stop growing new hair. Once the stressful event has passed, the hair will usually start growing back; however, if the stress is prolonged, it can cause permanent damage to the follicles and result in permanent hair loss.
Poor Diet
A poor diet can also cause hair loss in teenagers. The body needs certain nutrients, including protein, iron, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids, to grow healthy hair. If you’re not getting enough of these nutrients from your diet, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies that can cause your hair to fall out.
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein is the best way to ensure that your body is getting all the nutrients it needs for healthy hair growth.
There are many different factors that can contribute to hair loss in teenagers. Hormonal imbalances, stress, and poor diets are just a few of the most common causes. If you’re concerned about excessive hair shedding, talk to your doctor or dermatologist to rule out any underlying health conditions.
In the meantime, eating a balanced diet and managing stress levels can help promote healthy hair growth.
