Hair Loss during Adolescence – Possible Causes and Solutions




Usually, hair loss is not the most typical problem for healthy teenagers. However, in some cases they can experience hair shedding and even patchy baldness (alopecia areata), which usually indicates some hormonal imbalances, an illness, or other problems with internal homeostasis.

Regardless of age, problems with skin and especially hair can mirror a number of health conditions. Hair is composed of specific protein molecules, called keratins, and it gets its building blocks from the body. The hair structure is quite complicated: the deepest level, where hair is originated, is called the hair bulb. It produces special pigment cells that are responsible for the hair colour. Other parts of hair include the hair follicle, root, and shaft.

The health of locks largely depends on a proper nourishment of hair follicles – they need a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Any problems with the delivery of vital nutrients for the growth of hair can result in weakening hair roots, defects in the production of sebum, contracting dandruff, itchy scalp, and dry hair, or developing various degrees of hair loss.

Scientists have estimated that the most widely spread hair loss disorder – male-pattern alopecia - becomes a problem for about 40 percent of our male population already by the age of 30. Male-pattern baldness is mostly a genetic condition with no known cure. It tends to run in families and is predominantly inherited from the maternal line. The cause of men’s hair loss is well researched and linked to an abnormal utilization of the hormone testosterone. Ironically, this very “manly” hormone is directly responsible for male hair loss– no wonder many women prefer to be with balding men…

Female hair loss can start later in life, in comparison with that of men. The first signs of “female-type baldness” are predictably linked to the onset of menopause, when the body is getting through complicated hormonal changes.

To start losing hair when you are still an adolescent, especially when you are a young woman, is a very stressful and even traumatic experience that can negatively affects your confidence, self-image, and self-esteem. In order to understand the nature of your premature baldness, it is a good step to consult a doctor. A number of tests should be performed to determine the causes. The doctor can also recommend some medications or lifestyle / dietary changes that can be helpful in stopping hair loss and regenerating the weakened hair follicles.

Many cases of teenage baldness are associated with certain diseases, stress, or malnutrition. Some pharmaceutical drugs can also trigger hair loss. Even applying excessive amounts of hair-care products, such as gels, conditioners, or creams, can be linked to damaging of the hair roots. Another reason for premature baldness can be traced back to prolong wearing of tight hairstyles, such as ponytails, dreadlocks, or braids.

Good news is, when the teenager’s hair loss cause is properly addressed, it does not take long for the locks to grow back.

Robin Makris

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Posted on April 23, 2008 
Filed Under Hair Loss, Hair Loss Reasons

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