The normal cycle of hair growth and loss means that some amount of hair loss will occur in every individual's life. It is said that at any given point in time, about 10% of the hair on our scalp is in a resting phase which sheds after a couple of months, giving way to new hair growth. This growing phase lasts for 2 to 6 years when each hair grows about 1 centimeter per month. Hence, almost 90 percent of the hair is growing at any one time. Regular hair shedding is part of this cycle; however, some people experience excessive hair loss.

Excessive hair loss, however, is cause for concern. A number of reasons may lead to excessive hair loss. Any major illness, fungal infections or surgery may be major reasons. Hormonal problems like hypo or hyper thyroidism or male (androgens) or female (estrogens) hormones imbalance leads to hair loss. Post pregnancy hair loss is also common as a hormone imbalance occurs at this time as well.

Medicines for ailments like diabetes, chemotherapy, lupus, gout, blood coagulation, birth control and anti-depressants can cause hair loss too. Improper hair care can also lead to hair loss. Excessive use of chemicals or blow-drying for hair styling leads to hair loss as it scars the scalp, sometimes leading to permanent damage.

Common baldness usually refers to male-pattern baldness. It is the most common type of inherited hair loss trait in men where hair loss typically results in a receding hairline and baldness on the top of the head. Female-pattern baldness in women leads to hair thinning over the entire scalp.

It is important to determine the exact reason for your hair loss. Check on your diet first. Switch over to a healthy diet of fruits, green vegetables and fibers to be washed down with at least 2 liters of water each day. Cut down on fried and fatty food. Follow a hair care regimen of hot oil treatment, massage, conditioning and shampooing on a regular basis. If you're a woman, check the regularity of your menstrual cycle, pregnancy status and menopause.

The only way to deal with hair loss is to learn the causes, look for the right remedy, then come to a decision on what you want to do, and go for it. One should also take steps to prevent hair loss from recurring in future.

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