Environmental Affects Of Hair Loss

The most common reason for hair loss is a hormone within the body that converts large quantities of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). The gene responsible for this conversion is passed on through heredity. It is not the only factor that creates hair loss. There are a few in our very own living environment and it is important to be aware of them.

Environmental Hair Loss Factor #1: Radiation

This is usually interpreted as patients with a cancer diagnosis who are undergoing radiation treatments but it can also be people who have had been exposed to large amounts of radiation unwillingly. People who are exposed to radiation in a work environment can suffer hair loss, as well as people who have had numerous x-rays within a short amount of time. Hair does not always come back and if you are concerned it is important to talk to medical professional about your exposure to said radiation.

Environmental Hair Loss Factor #2: Chemical Exposure

Two chemicals in particular can create varying degrees of hair loss. Chemicals used to dye or permanent hair can damage or even destroy hair follicles with their repeated use especially with some of the less expensive dye products.

Another less recognized group of chemicals are those used to chlorinate and clean pools. These rather strong chemicals, especially when not applied correctly, can damage and shrink hair follicles. In most cases hair growth returns but this is not always the case and care should be taken when cleaning a pool and how much chemicals are being used for that function.

Environmental Hair Loss Factor #3: Stress

Stress is a bit of an abstract concept and difficult to pin down to one specific origin. Is it self-generated or something produced by the environment one finds oneself in? But what can’t be disputed that stress CAN and sometimes DOES lead to hair loss.

Hair is one of the first things to react to our body’s current physical and emotional state. When we are healthy and happy our hair looks vibrant and full. But when we are stressed our hair becomes dry and brittle and eventually can fall out. In most cases the hair comes back as soon as the cause of the stress is eliminated. In others when the stress relates to a single traumatic event, such as a car accident, the hair loss can be permanent. Before seeking a hair restoration surgeon, it’s important to look at your own life and daily schedule and see if there is some way you can eliminate the stress. Not just for your hair but for yourself as well.