Hair Loss

Why does Hair Loss matter?

Hair loss can affect more than just appearance. It may:

• Reduce self-esteem and confidence, especially if it happens at a young age.
• Be a sign of underlying health problems such as thyroid issues, hormonal imbalance, or nutritional deficiencies.
• Run in families, with male and female pattern baldness being the most common hereditary types.
• Be preventable or treatable depending on the cause.

Recognising the reason behind hair loss is the first step in managing it effectively.

How does Hair Loss affect health?

While hair loss itself is not usually harmful, it can have wider effects on wellbeing. It can trigger low self-confidence, emotional distress, or anxiety, and sometimes points to a medical issue that requires attention. Identifying and treating the root cause can support both physical and mental health.

How can Hair Loss be treated?

Treatment depends on what is causing the hair loss. Options may include:

• Consulting a healthcare professional for diagnosis, which may involve blood tests or scalp checks.
• Topical treatments such as minoxidil to encourage regrowth in certain cases.
• Prescription medicines like finasteride or surgical options such as hair transplants for more advanced cases.
• Improving diet to include vitamins and minerals important for hair health, such as vitamin D, biotin, and zinc.
• Managing stress, as it can contribute to shedding and thinning.

A personalised treatment plan, guided by a healthcare provider, offers the best chance of slowing or reversing hair loss.

Nutritionist's Corner: Final Thoughts

"Hair loss can stem from genetics, underlying health conditions, stress, or a lack of essential nutrients. Managing it usually requires a mix of lifestyle changes, good nutrition, and in some cases medical treatments or surgery. A professional assessment is always important to find the cause and guide the right treatment." – Yusra Serdaroglu Aydin, MSc RD