
Hair loss: causes, cycle and solutions
Hair loss affects many people worldwide and can have various causes. While it's normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day, excessive hair loss (medically known as "alopecia") is often considered very troubling. In this blog post, we take a detailed look at the hair growth cycle , the most common causes of hair loss , and possible solutions .
The hair growth cycle
Hair growth in humans goes through three phases:
- Anagen phase (growth phase) : This phase lasts between 2 and 6 years. Approximately 85-90% of the hair is in this phase at any one time.
- Catagen phase (transition phase) : This phase lasts about 1-2 weeks, during which the hair follicle regresses.
- Telogen phase (resting phase) : This lasts 2-4 months. Hair in this phase eventually falls out before a new cycle begins.
An imbalance in this cycle – caused by internal or external factors – can lead to increased hair loss.
The most common causes of hair loss
- Hormones : Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause, affect the hair growth cycle. Hormonal contraceptives can also exacerbate hair loss.
- Stress : Physical and emotional stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to a form of hair loss known as telogen effluvium. Hair loss often occurs 2-3 months after a stressful event.
- Protein deficiency : Since hair is made of keratin, a protein, a lack of protein in the diet can negatively affect hair growth and increase hair loss.
- Iron deficiency : Low iron levels, especially in women, are one of the most common causes of hair loss. Iron is necessary for the oxygen supply to the hair follicles.
- Vitamin D deficiency : Vitamin D is crucial for the activation of hair follicle cells. A deficiency can cause the follicles to enter the resting phase and slow hair growth.
- Genetics : Androgenetic alopecia, hereditary hair loss, affects both men and women. It involves gradual thinning of the hair, beginning at the forehead and crown.
- Medications : Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, antidepressants, or blood pressure lowering drugs, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
- Thyroid problems : An underactive or overactive thyroid can impair hair growth and lead to hair loss.
Solutions and tips for hair loss
- Healthy diet : A balanced diet rich in protein , iron , and vitamins (especially biotin, vitamin D, and B vitamins) is essential for healthy hair. Fish, eggs, nuts, and green leafy vegetables are particularly valuable.
- Stress management : Regular exercise, yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and minimize hair loss.
- Hair care : Use mild shampoos and products without harsh chemicals. Brush your hair gently to avoid breakage and limit the use of heat styling tools.
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Targeted supplements : Products like HAIRLICIOUS are specifically formulated to support hair growth and reduce hair loss. HAIRLICIOUS contains:
- Bio-Keranat™, a patented active ingredient that has been shown in clinical studies to reduce hair loss by up to 50% after just 12 weeks.
- Omega fatty acids from linseed oil that strengthen hair from within.
- Biotin and selenium, which are essential for hair growth, as well as vitamin E to protect cells from oxidative stress.
Clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of Keranat™. For example, one study showed that hair loss can be reduced by up to 50% after 12 weeks, along with a significant improvement in hair density and strength. These results were achieved in a double-blind study with participants who regularly took Keranat™ supplements.
- Topical treatments : Products containing minoxidil are effective for androgenetic alopecia. They promote hair growth and prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle.
- Scalp massages : Regular scalp massages promote blood circulation and support the hair follicles.
Conclusion
Hair loss can have many causes—from hormonal fluctuations and nutrient deficiencies to stress and genetic factors. A healthy lifestyle and targeted nutritional supplements like YLUMI's HAIRLICIOUS with Keranat™ can help reduce hair loss and support hair growth. By understanding the causes of hair loss and taking appropriate action, you can effectively counteract it.
Note and source:
HAIRLICOUS contains the same Keranat™ dosage as in this clinical study: Evaluation of a food supplement KERANAT efficacy on hair loss by the phototrichogram method, evaluation of tolerance and acceptability after 6 and 12 weeks (Double blind versus placebo study on 65 women), 2013. Publication: M. Keophiphath et. al. “Miliacin encapsulated by polar lipids stimulates cell proliferation in hair bulb and improves telogen effluvium in women,” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019;00:1–9.