Hair fall is a concern that affects both men and women, regardless of age. A few strands of hair on your pillow or in the shower drain are normal, but when hair loss becomes excessive, it can impact confidence, self-image, and emotional well-being.
As an experienced Dermatologist in Lucknow, Dr. Pragati Gogia Jain often sees patients who are distressed by increasing hair fall and thinning. The good news is that most cases can be managed effectively — once the underlying cause is identified. In this blog, we’ll explore the major causes of hair fall, how to prevent it, and when to seek professional help for long-lasting results.
What is Hair Fall?
Hair fall, or alopecia, refers to the shedding of more hair than normal. The human scalp naturally loses 50 to 100 strands per day as part of the normal hair growth cycle. However, when this balance is disrupted — due to internal or external factors — you may notice visible thinning, widening part lines, or bald patches.
Hair growth happens in three key phases:
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Anagen (Growth phase) – lasts for 2–6 years.
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Catagen (Transition phase) – a brief stage where growth stops.
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Telogen (Resting and shedding phase) – old hairs fall out, making room for new growth.
If the growth phase shortens or more hairs enter the shedding phase, noticeable hair fall occurs.
1. Hormonal Changes and Hair Fall
Hormonal imbalance is one of the leading causes of hair fall. Conditions such as:
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Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
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Post-pregnancy hormonal shifts
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Menopause
...can all affect the hair growth cycle. In these cases, excess androgen hormones (male hormones) can shrink hair follicles, leading to thinning and patterned hair loss.
???? If you’re experiencing unexplained hair thinning or excessive shedding, a Dermatologist in Lucknow can perform hormone and blood tests to determine the cause and provide targeted treatment.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
Healthy hair needs proper nutrition from within. When your diet lacks essential nutrients, hair growth slows and hair strands become weak.
Key nutrients that impact hair health include:
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Iron – Deficiency leads to anemia and reduced oxygen supply to hair roots.
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Vitamin D – Helps stimulate hair follicles.
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Biotin (Vitamin B7) – Essential for keratin production.
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Zinc and protein – Crucial for hair strength and repair.
Crash diets, restrictive eating, or underlying health issues can cause deficiencies. Incorporating a balanced diet with green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and lean proteins supports healthy hair growth. A dermatologist can also prescribe supplements to fill nutritional gaps.
3. Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Chronic stress is another silent contributor to hair fall. Emotional or physical stress can trigger a condition called Telogen Effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase.
Major triggers include:
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Sudden weight loss
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Surgery or illness
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Emotional trauma
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Lack of sleep
Stress hormones like cortisol affect the scalp’s blood circulation and disturb the normal hair cycle. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help restore balance.
If stress-related hair fall continues for months, it’s wise to consult a Dermatologist in Lucknow for early intervention.
4. Genetic (Hereditary) Hair Loss
Hereditary or pattern baldness — known as Androgenetic Alopecia — is one of the most common causes of hair loss in both men and women.
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In men, it often starts with a receding hairline and thinning on the crown.
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In women, it causes overall thinning without bald spots.
Genetic hair loss can be managed but not completely reversed. However, timely medical treatments such as Minoxidil, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, and laser treatments offered by a qualified Dermatologist in Lucknow can slow down hair loss and promote regrowth.
5. Scalp Conditions and Infections
A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Conditions like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or fungal infections (ringworm) can weaken the roots and cause hair shedding.
Common symptoms include:
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Itching or flaking
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Redness or inflammation
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Scalp scaling or pustules
In such cases, topical antifungal shampoos, medicated lotions, or laser scalp treatments may be recommended. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose the scalp condition and guide the best treatment.
6. Overuse of Hair Styling and Chemical Treatments
Frequent use of styling tools, heat, and harsh chemicals can cause hair shaft damage and breakage. Straightening, coloring, perming, and tight hairstyles like ponytails or braids can lead to traction alopecia — hair loss due to tension.
To protect your hair:
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Avoid excessive heat styling.
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Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
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Apply heat protectants before using tools.
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Massage your scalp with lightweight oils to improve circulation.
If you already notice thinning from styling damage, an experienced Dermatologist in Lucknow can suggest restorative treatments like PRP therapy or mesotherapy.
7. Postpartum Hair Fall
It’s normal for women to experience hair fall after pregnancy, usually 3–6 months postpartum. During pregnancy, estrogen levels rise, prolonging the hair’s growth phase. After delivery, when hormone levels drop, the hair enters the shedding phase all at once.
This type of hair fall, known as postpartum telogen effluvium, usually resolves within a few months. However, if it persists, gentle hair care routines and dermatologist-recommended serums or supplements can help.
8. Medical Conditions and Medications
Certain illnesses and medications can also cause hair fall. These include:
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Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata
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Chronic diseases such as diabetes or lupus
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Medications for hypertension, depression, or cancer (chemotherapy)
If you suspect a medical cause, don’t stop any medication on your own. A Dermatologist in Lucknow can coordinate with your physician to find a safe and effective treatment approach to manage hair loss.
9. Environmental and Weather Factors
Environmental aggressors such as pollution, hard water, and excessive sun exposure can damage the hair shaft and scalp. Dust and toxins settle on the scalp, clogging pores and weakening hair roots.
Regular cleansing, scalp detox, and the use of antioxidant-rich serums can protect hair health in polluted environments like Lucknow.
Seasonal hair fall is also common — particularly during monsoon and winter — due to humidity changes. Consistent hair care helps minimize such shedding.
10. When to See a Dermatologist in Lucknow
It’s time to consult a dermatologist if:
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You lose more than 100 hairs per day.
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You notice bald patches or a widening part line.
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Your scalp feels itchy, scaly, or inflamed.
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You’ve tried home remedies without improvement.
A qualified Dermatologist in Lucknow will begin by assessing your scalp, hair density, and medical history. They may perform trichoscopy, blood tests, or scalp biopsies to pinpoint the cause.
Professional Treatments May Include:
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PRP Therapy: Injecting your own platelet-rich plasma to boost hair regrowth.
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Mesotherapy: Nutrient injections to strengthen hair follicles.
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Laser Hair Therapy: Stimulates scalp circulation and follicle activity.
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Medical Treatments: Minoxidil, finasteride, or hormone therapy (if required).
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Nutritional Guidance: Supplements to support healthy hair growth.
With professional care and early diagnosis, most hair fall conditions are reversible or manageable.
Hair Care Tips to Prevent Hair Fall
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Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo.
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Avoid brushing wet hair — it’s more prone to breakage.
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Oil your scalp once or twice a week with coconut or argan oil.
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Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins.
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Stay hydrated — dehydration can affect scalp health.
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Manage stress through regular relaxation or physical activity.
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Trim split ends regularly to maintain healthy length.
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Protect your hair from sun and pollution with scarves or caps.
Consistency is key — healthy habits practiced daily yield visible results over time.
Final Thoughts
Hair fall is more than just a cosmetic concern; it’s often a sign of underlying imbalance — hormonal, nutritional, or emotional. Identifying the cause early ensures faster, fuller recovery.
If you’re struggling with hair loss or thinning, don’t wait for it to worsen. Book an appointment with an expert Dermatologist in Lucknow to get a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your scalp’s needs. With the right care, healthy and voluminous hair can be restored.