Why are more young men experiencing hair loss? Understanding the science behind this growing trend.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a disorder that disrupts the body’s cycle of hair production. An average person has 90,000 to 150,000 hairs on their scalp, depending on their hair color. These hairs undergo many growth cycles, rest, falling out, and regeneration. Alopecia can technically occur anywhere in the human body, but it generally affects the scalp and face. Alopecia can be caused by heredity, changes in hormones, or aging. It can be temporary or permanent, and it is more common in men. 

But what is the deeper scientific explanation of alopecia and why is it increasing among young men?

What occurs in hair loss and what are its different types?

Hair follicles are the parts of our skin where hair grows. In Alopecia, the immune system attacks these hair follicles and this causes hair loss. Hair loss usually happens in small, circular patches but it can be more extensive. There are 3 main types of Alopecia:

1. Patchy alopecia areata: This is the most common type of alopecia. Hair loss happens in multiple small, circular patches that occur usually on the scalp, but can occur anywhere on the body.

2. Alopecia totalis: Patients with this type of alopecia lose all hair on their scalp.

3. Alopecia Universalis: This is the least common type of alopecia, and patients with this type experience loss of hair not just on their scalp, but also their entire body.

When does hair loss develop?

Alopecia can occur to anyone at any time. It affects all races and ethnicities equally. The onset can occur at any age, but most people get Alopecia in their teens, twenties, or thirties. As people grow older though, they are more at risk of getting Alopecia. 

Why is hair loss more common these days among young men?

Young men with thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases are usually at a higher risk of hair loss. Diet is also an important factor in hair growth. People who follow vegan or vegetarian diets can negatively affect their hair growth. This is due to reduced protein consumption. Deficiencies in nutrients like Zinc, Vitamin D, among others can also cause hair loss. 

It is also important to recognize the factor of stress on hair growth. Many young men are more stressed these days due to many factors. This increase in stress can cause hair loss. The way that happens is that stress shifts hairs out of the growth phase prematurely. Many studies done on animals such as rats and monkeys confirm the idea that stress can induce hair loss. 

Conclusion

Alopecia is a disease that affects millions of men and women around the world. It has many causes such as heredity, age, and hormonal shifts. It can be difficult to deal with depending on when the onset begins. Thanks to modern medical science, there are a lot more ways to combat alopecia such as minoxidil and hair transplants. We will discuss these further in the future.