Hair loss – causes, diagnosis, and effective treatment methods

Hair loss is a problem that affects both women and men, regardless of age. While losing a few dozen hairs a day is a normal physiological process, it is worth taking action if you notice significantly more on your brush, pillow, or in the shower drain. At our clinic, we specialize in the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of hair loss, offering an individualized approach to every patient.

How can you tell if you are losing too much hair?

Recognizing excessive hair loss is not always straightforward, as everyone loses between 50 and 100 hairs a day—a natural process linked to the hair growth cycle. The problem arises when this process accelerates noticeably: the hair becomes thinner and sparser, and its shedding becomes apparent not only while brushing but also on pillows, clothing, or in the shower drain.

One of the first warning signs is noticing that significantly more hair falls out than usual while washing it. You might feel as though your hair is literally washing away with the water, leaving a handful of strands in your palm when you finish. Similar symptoms can occur during brushing; if your brush is heavily coated with hair after every use and requires cleaning more frequently than usual, it is worth taking a closer look at the issue.

Another symptom can be noticeable thinning of the hair. Hair may lose volume and the hairstyle appear less full—affecting the frontal area, the temples, and the crown of the head. In women, thinning often manifests as a widening of the hair part. In men, typical symptoms may include a receding hairline at the forehead and balding at the crown.

Why does hair fall out? The most common causes

Hormonal factors are among the most common causes of hair loss, particularly in the case of androgenetic alopecia. In men, this typically manifests as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, whereas in women, it often presents as diffuse thinning across the scalp, especially along the part. The primary culprit is a testosterone derivative known as DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which weakens hair follicles and leads to their gradual miniaturization.

Another significant factor involves stress and severe psychological strain. Chronic stress disrupts hormonal balance, causes blood vessel constriction, and can lead to so-called telogen effluvium, a condition in which a large number of hairs simultaneously enter the resting phase and fall out over a short period. This is a typical reaction following severe emotional shock, hospitalization, childbirth, or surgery.

Nutritional deficiencies—particularly of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, and B vitamins—are also a significant cause. As the body does not prioritize hair, it is among the first structures to suffer in cases of malnutrition or an unbalanced diet. Consequently, hair follicles weaken, and hair growth is inhibited.

Autoimmune diseases—such as lupus erythematosus or alopecia areata—can also lead to hair loss. In such cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own hair follicles, causing patches of hair loss that often appear suddenly and unpredictably. Alopecia areata can be recurrent and, if left untreated, may lead to total hair loss.

For women, hormonal imbalances associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the postpartum period, and menopause are of particular significance. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels directly affect the condition of the hair. After childbirth, many women experience so-called postpartum hair loss; although this usually resolves on its own, it can be very stressful.

One must also not overlook external factors—such as harsh hair treatments, frequent dyeing, straightening, and heat styling, as well as wearing tight hairstyles and synthetic wigs. Repeatedly damaging the hair structure and exposing the scalp to chemical substances can lead to permanent weakening of the hair roots and micro-injuries to the hair follicles.

How much hair falls out daily, and how does the hair growth cycle work?

Hair loss is a natural physiological process that occurs in everyone on a daily basis. It is usually no cause for concern, as we lose an average of 50 to 100 hairs a day. This amount falls within the normal range and results from the natural hair growth cycle, which comprises three successive phases: growth, transition, and rest. Each individual hair functions independently; consequently, in a healthy state, there is no sudden thinning of the hair—some hairs grow while others fall out and are replaced by new ones.

The hair growth cycle begins with the growth phase, known as anagen. This is the most active stage, lasting anywhere from two to as long as six years. During this time, the hair follicle is highly active: cells multiply, the hair grows, and the hair bulb remains well-nourished and supplied with blood. The majority of our hair—up to 90 percent—is in this phase at any given time. Consequently, the length and density of one’s hair depend largely on the duration of the anagen phase and whether it proceeds without disruption. Hair loss is usually not a cause for concern; on average, we lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day. This amount falls within the normal range and is the result of the natural hair growth cycle, which comprises three consecutive phases: growth, transition, and rest. Each individual hair functions independently, ensuring that—in a healthy state—there is no sudden thinning of the hair; while some hairs grow, others fall out, and new ones emerge in their place.

Percentage of hair

When a hair completes its growth stage, it enters a transitional phase known as catagen. This is a brief period—lasting only a few weeks—during which the hair follicle shrinks, the supply of nutrients to the hair bulb ceases, and hair growth stops. It is a time of preparation for shedding. Only a small percentage of hairs—approximately 1–2 percent—are in this phase at any given time.

The final stage is the telogen phase, or resting phase. It lasts approximately two to three months. During this time, the hair does not grow; it remains dead and gradually moves toward the skin’s surface before eventually falling out. Under healthy conditions, about 10–15 percent of hairs are in this phase. After the hair falls out, the cycle begins anew—with the growth of a new hair starting from the same follicle.

Disruptions to any of these stages—such as a shortened anagen phase, a prolonged telogen phase, or arrest in the catagen phase—can lead to visible hair thinning and excessive hair loss. That is why consulting a specialist is crucial if you experience concerning hair loss. Only a precise diagnosis makes it possible to determine which phase of the hair cycle has been disrupted and to select the appropriate therapy to support natural hair renewal.

When does hair loss require a consultation with a specialist?

It is particularly important to seek help when hair loss is sudden and intense—with hair coming out in clumps during washing, brushing, or even upon simple contact. Equally concerning are situations where the process is chronic, persisting regardless of the season or hair care routine, and gradually leads to thinning. If you notice a receding hairline, receding temples, a noticeably thinning part, or round bald patches, this may indicate more serious forms of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata.

Other symptoms accompanying hair loss—such as scalp itching, burning, excessive oiliness, or flaking—should also raise concern. These signs may indicate scalp conditions ranging from seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis to fungal infections. Professional diagnostic testing is also advisable if hair loss occurs following an infection, a course of antibiotics, severe stress, or hormonal changes (e.g., after pregnancy, during menopause, or due to thyroid disorders).

A specialist—such as a trichologist, dermatologist, or aesthetic medicine physician—can determine whether hair loss is temporary and reversible or the onset of a more serious balding process. Using appropriate diagnostic tools—such as trichoscopy, hair microstructure analysis, or laboratory tests—they can propose a targeted therapy tailored to the underlying cause of the problem.

Consulting a specialist not only improves the chances of successful treatment but also prevents errors in self-care and unnecessary experimentation with cosmetic products. When it comes to hair, time is of the essence—the sooner appropriate measures are taken, the greater the chance of restoring the hair and halting further loss.

Diagnosing hair loss – how to determine the cause?

The first step is always a thorough medical interview. The doctor or trichologist asks questions regarding the duration and severity of hair loss, lifestyle, stress levels, diet, past illnesses, medications taken, hair treatments, and any family history of chronic diseases. Even at this stage, it is often possible to identify potential risk factors, such as hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or chronic stress.

Next, an examination of the scalp and hair is performed, often using trichoscopy—a modern method of high-magnification scalp imaging. Trichoscopy allows for the assessment of hair density, the condition of hair follicles, the presence of hair miniaturization, and signs of inflammation or scaling. It is an invaluable tool for distinguishing between various types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, and telogen effluvium.

If systemic disorders are suspected, the doctor may order additional laboratory tests. These most commonly include tests for levels of iron and ferritin, vitamin D3, zinc, thyroid hormones (TSH, FT3, FT4), and androgens (e.g., testosterone, DHT), as well as a complete blood count and screenings for inflammation or autoimmune diseases. Such tests help determine whether the hair loss is caused by conditions such as anemia, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, or other endocrine disorders.

In some cases, genetic testing, microscopic examination of hair shafts, or a scalp biopsy also prove helpful—especially when the diagnosis is not obvious or rarer forms of hair loss are suspected.

“Not all hair loss is baldness. Understanding the cause is key—without it, treatment will merely mask the symptoms.”
— Dr. Piotr Turkowski, MD, hair transplant specialist

How to stop hair loss – strategies

The first step is always to determine the cause of hair loss. Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor selects an appropriate treatment plan—one approach is used for androgenetic alopecia, another for telogen effluvium, and yet others for alopecia areata or autoimmune disorders. A well-planned, targeted therapy yields significantly better results than the haphazard use of cosmetics or supplements.

One of the most common methods used in modern hair loss therapy is scalp mesotherapy. The procedure involves injecting a cocktail of ingredients—such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, biomimetic peptides, or hyaluronic acid—directly into the skin. This ensures that hair follicles receive nutrients exactly where they are needed. Regular mesotherapy treatments significantly improve microcirculation, oxygenate the scalp, and stimulate new hair growth.

Therapy using platelet-rich plasma (PRP)—often referred to as a “vampire facelift” for the scalp—is also gaining increasing popularity. It is an autologous method, meaning it utilizes the patient’s own blood components. During the procedure, blood is drawn, spun in a special centrifuge, and the resulting plasma is then injected into the scalp. The growth factors contained within the plasma stimulate cell regeneration and activate dormant hair follicles.

For more advanced hair loss—particularly of the androgenic type—FUE hair transplantation is a viable option. This modern, precise technique involves extracting individual hair follicles from the occipital region (where hair is resistant to the effects of DHT) and implanting them into areas of thinning. The results are permanent and natural-looking, while the procedure is minimally invasive and leaves no visible scarring.

One should also not overlook daily care—such as gently cleansing the scalp and avoiding harsh products, excessive heat styling, or tight hairstyles. Properly selected dermocosmetics and trichological products—containing ingredients like caffeine, niacinamide, Aminexil, or ginseng extract—can help improve hair condition and slow down hair loss.

Diet and lifestyle also play a crucial role. Hair requires adequate amounts of protein, iron, zinc, biotin, and B vitamins; deficiencies in these nutrients can weaken hair follicles. It is also important to manage stress, ensure healthy sleep, and avoid stimulants—factors that are often underestimated yet have a tangible impact on hair health.

Modern treatment methods and trichological procedures

Hair loss treatment depends on the underlying cause; therefore, it is always preceded by a detailed diagnosis, and the choice of therapy takes into account the type of hair loss, the condition of the scalp, and the patient’s expectations. Modern aesthetic medicine and trichology offer a wide range of effective solutions:

• Scalp needle mesotherapy involves administering a specialized cocktail of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and peptides directly into the skin. It improves microcirculation, nourishes hair follicles, and effectively stimulates new hair growth.
• platelet-rich plasma (PRP) – a natural and safe autologous therapy that uses the patient’s own blood. Growth factors contained in the platelet concentrate activate dormant hair follicles, regenerate the scalp, and support hair regrowth,
• Carboxytherapy involves the controlled injection of carbon dioxide under the scalp, which significantly improves blood circulation and tissue oxygenation, and activates growth processes.
• peptide therapies and trichological ampoules – preparations based on modern biomimetic complexes that supply the skin with ingredients stimulating hair follicles and supporting hair structure,
• pharmacological treatment – ​​e.g., using minoxidil or finasteride (in men), always conducted under strict medical supervision,
• FUE hair transplant – a permanent and advanced solution for significant hair loss, involving the precise transfer of healthy hair follicles from the occipital area.

All these methods yield the best results when used regularly, combined with proper diagnostics, care, and an individual, professional approach to the patient.

Hair loss in women and men – differences and therapeutic approach

Hair loss in women and men follows different patterns and often stems from distinct causes; therefore, the therapeutic approach must be individually tailored. In men, androgenetic alopecia is the most common form, manifesting as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. It is typically genetically determined and linked to hair follicle hypersensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosteron). In women, however, hair loss usually presents as diffuse thinning—hair becomes thinner across the scalp, particularly along the parting. It may be associated with hormonal imbalances, iron deficiencies, stress, pregnancy, or menopause.

Therapy for men often involves pharmacological treatment (e.g., finasteride, minoxidil) as well as procedures such as mesotherapy, PRP therapy, or hair transplantation. For women, treatment focuses on restoring hormonal balance, supplementation, and trichological procedures. In both cases, accurate diagnosis and the selection of targeted therapy—tailored to the patient’s gender and the specific cause and type of hair loss—are crucial.

Hair loss after COVID-19 – how to deal with it?

Hair loss following COVID-19 is a common issue affecting both men and women, typically occurring a few weeks after recovery. It most often manifests as telogen effluvium, meaning a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously and subsequently shed. The condition is triggered by severe physical and emotional stress associated with the illness and fever, as well as hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies. Although this type of hair loss usually resolves on its own, it is beneficial to support the body through a balanced diet, supplementation (including iron, zinc, and biotin), gentle hair care, and scalp-strengthening treatments such as mesotherapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. In cases of prolonged hair loss, it is advisable to consult a specialist who can perform a diagnosis and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

How can recurrent hair loss be prevented?

To prevent hair loss from recurring, it is important to maintain the health of the scalp and hair follicles through regular care and a healthy lifestyle. One should ensure a balanced diet rich in iron, zinc, biotin, and B vitamins, while also avoiding chronic stress and prioritizing quality sleep. It is advisable to use gentle trichological shampoos and avoid harsh hair treatments. Regular strengthening procedures—such as mesotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, or peptide treatments—help maintain therapeutic results and support the hair growth cycle. Hormonal monitoring and periodic check-ups are also crucial, especially for individuals prone to recurring hair loss.

What should be avoided when dealing with hair loss?

When dealing with hair loss, it is best to avoid anything that further weakens the hair follicles or irritates the scalp. Harsh hairdressing treatments—such as frequent dyeing, bleaching, straightening, or blow-drying with hot air—are not recommended. You should also avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp, as well as hair products containing silicones, alcohol, or sulfates. Stress, nutritional deficiencies, and a lack of sleep can also be detrimental. Finally, avoid self-treatment without a proper diagnosis; using the wrong products can worsen the condition of your hair rather than improve it.