Genetics
It is not yet clear why some hair follicles are affected at different times, but research has found a clear link between genetics and hair loss in both men and women. The primary baldness gene can be found on the X chromosome; however, hair loss is not passed down through the mother alone. Studies suggest that people with a parent who experienced hair loss are significantly more likely to experience it themselves. Research has identified over 190 genes linked to hair loss, which helps to explain why the condition affects family members at different ages and with varying degrees of severity.
Ageing
Ageing is the most common cause of hair loss and happens to almost everyone. As people age, hair strands become smaller and have less pigment, and many follicles stop producing new hairs. The result is hair that looks lighter, thinner and recedes over time. This happens because the anagen (active growth) phase of the hair cycle shortens with age, while follicles gradually miniaturise over successive growth cycles.
Hormones
Male Pattern Baldness and DHT
Male pattern baldness is directly linked to levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Hair follicles are sensitive to DHT, which causes an imbalance that results in follicles shrinking, hair thinning and eventually hair no longer growing back. DHT is a hormone derived from testosterone. In genetically susceptible follicles, it triggers a process called miniaturisation: with each successive growth cycle, affected hairs become progressively thinner and shorter until the follicle stops producing hair altogether. This is why male hair loss tends to progress gradually rather than all at once.
Female Pattern Hair Loss
Women can also experience hair loss due to hormonal changes. Female pattern hair loss occurs when levels of androgens (male hormones) shift, for example following menopause, and causes the hair to begin thinning. Other hormonal triggers include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), changes to the contraceptive pill, and the hormonal changes that follow pregnancy or childbirth. In most post-pregnancy cases, hair loss is temporary and resolves within 6 to 12 months without treatment. You can read more about the specific triggers and patterns that affect women on our female hair loss page.
“Hair thinning and bald patches does not only affect men.”
— Dr Matee Rajput, Director of Surgical Services, KSL Clinic
Stress
Physical trauma and emotional stress can both lead to hair loss in men and women. This type of hair loss is known as telogen effluvium. Significant stress pushes a larger proportion of hair follicles into their resting phase simultaneously, disrupting the normal growth cycle. Hair shedding typically becomes noticeable around 2 to 3 months after the triggering event. In most cases, this form of hair loss can be reversed after a period of recovery, though it can occasionally lead to longer-term hair loss.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also disrupt the hair growth cycle. These include:
- An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): reduced thyroid hormone can slow the rate of hair growth across the scalp
- Iron deficiency and anaemia: hair follicles require adequate iron to function; low levels can cause diffuse shedding
- Alopecia areata: an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss on the scalp or body
- Traction alopecia: caused by sustained tension on the hair from tight hairstyles such as braids, ponytails or extensions
- Certain medications, including some chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair loss as a side effect; in most cases hair regrows once treatment ends
If hair loss is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is worth seeing a GP to rule out an underlying medical cause before seeking hair restoration treatment.
Hair Loss Treatments at KSL Clinic
Once the cause of hair loss is understood, the appropriate treatment can be recommended. At KSL Clinic, our GMC-registered doctors assess each patient individually before suggesting any course of action. All hair transplant procedures are backed by an 80% regrowth guarantee. Treatment options include:
- Finasteride and minoxidil: oral and topical medications that can slow hair loss and, in some cases, stimulate regrowth in the early stages
- PRP hair treatment: platelet-rich plasma injections to stimulate the scalp and support the hair growth cycle
- FUE hair transplant: for patients with established hair loss where medication alone is not sufficient to restore hair density
All treatment plans are formulated on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us to book a free consultation at one of our hair loss clinics in Kent, Manchester or Dublin, or at one of our consultation clinics in London, Bristol, Birmingham, Newcastle or Leeds.
