If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why am I losing hair?” you’re not alone, and the good news is, you don’t have to navigate this concern alone either. Hair loss can feel frustrating and confusing, but identifying its cause is the first step toward finding real solutions.
At Peach Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hair loss in women and men with precision and care. Led by Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, we proudly serve Suwanee, GA, and nearby areas including Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek. If hair thinning or shedding has become a concern, we’re here to help. Call 770-676-2200 to schedule your consultation with our experienced team today.
Here are five of the most common hair loss causes and what you can do about them.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Understanding why hair loss occurs is crucial for managing and possibly reversing the condition. Some of the most frequent reasons behind hair thinning include:
1. Genetic Predisposition (Androgenetic Alopecia)
Often referred to as male or female pattern baldness, genetic hair loss is one of the most common causes. Men typically experience hair thinning around the temples and crown (hair thinning in men), while women often notice diffuse thinning along their hair part (hair loss in women). Early intervention can significantly slow progression and preserve existing hair.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid conditions, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can trigger hair thinning. Such hair loss is often temporary, but chronic hormonal imbalances require professional evaluation and treatment to restore hair growth.
3. Stress-Related Hair Loss
Severe physical or emotional stress can lead to telogen effluvium, a temporary but dramatic increase in hair shedding. Although stress-related hair loss usually resolves naturally, persistent issues may require specialized care from a dermatologist for hair loss.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients like iron, protein, vitamin D, and biotin can directly impact hair health. Ensuring a balanced diet and supplementation under professional guidance can address this type of hair loss effectively.
5. Hairstyling and Care Habits
Excessive heat styling, tight hairstyles, or harsh chemical treatments can cause damage and thinning. Known as traction alopecia, this hair loss type can often be prevented or reversed with guidance from a dermatologist.
The Role of Lifestyle in Preventing Hair Loss
Adopting healthy daily habits can make a meaningful difference in preventing and managing hair thinning. While some hair loss causes may be genetic or medical, supportive lifestyle practices can help maintain the strength and health of your hair over time. Consider these simple but impactful changes:
- Balanced Nutrition: A well-rounded diet rich in protein, iron, biotin, and vitamins (especially A, D, and E) helps nourish the scalp and support strong hair growth from within. Nutrient deficiencies are a common contributor to hair loss in women and men.
- Stress Reduction: Chronic stress is a known trigger for temporary shedding, particularly telogen effluvium. Prioritizing consistent sleep, regular physical activity, and stress-relief practices like meditation or yoga can support both emotional wellness and hair health.
- Gentle Hair Care: Daily hair care choices matter. Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos, avoid excessive brushing, and limit tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp. Reducing the use of hot styling tools and harsh chemical treatments may help prevent breakage and traction-related hair thinning.
Small changes can have a significant impact over time, especially when paired with professional dermatologic care.
Importance of Recognizing Early Warning Signs
Recognizing the early signs of hair loss is key to starting treatment before the condition becomes more advanced. By acting early, you can often preserve existing hair and improve outcomes with less aggressive interventions. Watch for these early indicators:
- Noticeable shedding in the shower, on your pillow, or when brushing your hair
- Gradual reduction in hair density, making your hair feel lighter or flatter than usual
- Visible scalp where hair used to appear fuller, especially in bright or direct lighting
- A receding hairline or an increasingly widening part, common in both men and women
If you notice any of these changes, consulting a dermatologist for hair loss can help uncover the root cause and initiate a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Early attention can prevent further thinning and help restore healthier hair over time.
Medical Conditions That Can Cause Hair Thinning
Sometimes, hair loss is more than a cosmetic concern—it can be a sign of an underlying medical issue. At Peach Dermatology, we often evaluate patients whose hair thinning is linked to health conditions that require targeted treatment. Some of the most common include:
- Thyroid Disorders: Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid function can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to diffuse thinning throughout the scalp.
- Autoimmune Conditions: In cases like alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing patchy or sudden hair loss. This condition can affect both men and women and requires personalized dermatologic care.
- Scalp Infections and Inflammation: Fungal infections like ringworm or inflammatory scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can cause localized hair loss and irritation.
When the cause of hair thinning isn’t immediately clear, a comprehensive exam with a dermatologist for hair loss at Peach Dermatology can help uncover the root cause and initiate the right treatment approach.
When to See a Hair Loss Specialist in Suwanee, GA
If you're asking yourself, 'Why am I losing my hair?' and aren't seeing improvement with home care or over-the-counter solutions, it's time to speak with a specialist. Early evaluation can prevent further progression and lead to more effective, lasting results.
You should consider scheduling a visit with a dermatologist if:
- Your hair loss began suddenly or is occurring in patches
- You’ve noticed persistent shedding that hasn’t improved over several months
- You’ve tried at-home remedies or lifestyle changes without results
- Your hair thinning is affecting your self-esteem or emotional well-being
At Peach Dermatology, we take your concerns seriously. We’ll assess your symptoms, conduct any needed testing, and create a care plan designed to help you regain confidence in your hair—and in yourself.
How Peach Dermatology Can Help With Hair Loss
If you’re struggling with persistent shedding, thinning, or scalp concerns, Peach Dermatology in Suwanee, GA offers expert support grounded in clinical insight and compassionate care. Under the leadership of Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, our team is dedicated to identifying the root causes of hair loss and creating effective, individualized treatment plans for each patient.
As experienced dermatologists for hair loss, we provide:
- Thorough scalp evaluations and diagnostic testing to determine underlying causes
- Personalized treatment plans that may include topical solutions, oral medications, or advanced therapies
- Guidance on lifestyle changes and healthy hair care practices that support long-term results
- Targeted interventions for hormonal, autoimmune, or inflammatory causes of hair thinning in both men and women
Whether your hair loss is recent or ongoing, we’re here to help you regain healthy hair, boost your confidence, and support your overall skin wellness journey.
Get Back to Healthy Hair With Help From Peach Dermatology
Hair thinning can be caused by a variety of factors, but early diagnosis and personalized treatment are key to recovery. If you’ve been noticing increased shedding or thinning, our dermatologists can help restore your hair’s health.
Schedule your visit at Peach Dermatology in Suwanee, GA, to receive expert care from board-certified professionals who understand the complexities of hair loss and offer treatment tailored just for you.
