Hair is often seen as a significant part of a woman’s identity, and losing it can be deeply distressing. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with images of long, thick, and sleek hair, experiencing hair loss can cause significant anxiety and affect self-esteem. Hair loss in women is more common than many realize, and it can occur for various reasons, from natural aging to underlying medical conditions. Understanding the different types of hair loss, identifying the causes, and knowing when to seek help is key to managing the problem effectively. In this guide, we will explore the various reasons behind hair loss in women, such as genetic factors, hairstyling practices, and medical conditions. We will also look at treatment options available and offer practical advice on when to see a healthcare professional. By being informed, women can take steps to address hair loss and improve the health of their hair.

Hair loss can cause significant emotional distress in men, often leading to feelings of premature aging and a loss of confidence. For many men, hair loss begins in their 30s or 40s, when they still feel young and actively pursue careers, relationships, and family life. Hair is closely tied to identity, so the impact of losing it can be profound. Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men, affecting roughly half of men by age 50. This condition is primarily linked to aging and hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which weakens hair follicles. In this article, we will explore the critical causes of hair loss in men, including natural aging and medical conditions. We will also review treatment options to slow down or reverse hair loss and offer advice on when to seek medical attention if the problem persists. Understanding the causes and treatments of hair loss can help men feel more in control of this common issue.

Dandruff is caused by dead skin cells falling off your scalp, which can be seen as white-grey flakes on your scalp, in your hair, and sometimes on your clothes. It can cause symptoms of an itchy scalp. It is very common and not linked to hair cleanliness, although more flakes may build up with the less you wash your hair. Dandruff is a type of seborrheic dermatitis that also causes a red, greasy, flakey rash over the nose and cheeks. In the majority of cases, dandruff can be treated at home. Extreme weather conditions, such as when hot, cold, or dry, may cause dandruff, and stress can worsen the condition in some people. Dandruff is not contagious.

For most, the abundance of estrogen causes a slowing down of hair shedding, and many women report increased volume and lustrous locks during pregnancy. But this isn’t so for all – the relative stress to the body in the first trimester may cause hair loss, but this is only evident later in the pregnancy. Hair will come back – you’ll notice regrowth two to four months after the baby is delivered.

If your nails turn up at the sides, in the shape of a spoon, this is known as koilonychia. It may be something that runs in your family, but it can also point to a medical condition. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common of these, so it's worth getting a blood test to check, or topping up your iron levels with supplements to see if this improves your nail condition. Other more unusual medical conditions can occasionally cause koilonychia, so if you have any other symptoms or concerns, you can discuss this with your doctor.