Manage Alopecia

Causes of Alopecia

Normally people lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day. This is not commonly noticeable as new hairs are growing almost at the same rate. Hair loss is said to occur when new hair is not replacing the lost hair.

Following factors may contribute to hair loss:-

• Hereditary Factors: It is the most common cause of hair loss and happens usually with aging. It commonly occurs gradually and will be in predictable patterns. In men, there will be a receding hairline and bald spots and in women thinning of hair along the crown of the scalp is observed.
• Hormonal changes and medical conditions: Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid problems, etc., and medical conditions like scalp infection by ringworm, a hair-pulling disorder called trichotillomania, etc. can lead to Alopecia.
• Medicines and supplements: Hair loss can be caused as a side effect of certain drugs, used in the treatment of cancer, high blood pressure, arthritis, heart problems, depression, gout, etc.
• Radiation therapy: Hair lost due to radiation may not grow back easily.
• Mental stress and anxiety: People may experience a temporary thinning of hair due to some physical or emotional shock.
• Hair treatments: Unhealthy hairstyling and hair treatments involving the application of hot oil, coloring, straightening, etc. can lead to hair loss.

In Ayurveda, Indralupta is caused by vitiation of Vata dosha along with Pithadosha in hair follicles. Kapha dosha along with Raktadathu forms a covering in these follicles and prevents the formation of new hairs.