The first signs of balding may be so subtle that you might not even notice they are happening until your hair loss has progressed significantly. In general, the first signs of balding include a receding hairline, increase in hair shedding and a more visible scalp. there are, however, more signs of hair loss that you might not have noticed before.
What Are The First Signs Of Balding?
There are quite a few signs of hair loss or thinning hair. The key to reversing hair loss is early intervention, so if you notice one or more of the following signs, you should consider booking a hair loss consultation to discuss a possible treatment plan. Below, we’ve ordered this list by the most subtle to the most overt signs of hair loss.
Your Hair Feels Lighter
This can be rather subtle, but you may start to feel that your hair doesn’t have the same weight anymore. you may also notice this especially if you wear a ponytail. The ponytail may not only feel lighter but may also be smaller in appearance and take more looping of the elastic band to keep it in place.
You Start To See More Of Your Scalp
You may not see bald patches, but when you tie your hair up, you may notice your scalp peeking through. You may also notice that your hair part has started to widen.
Your Forehead Is Bigger
For many people, men especially, a receding hairline is first noticed because the forehead begins to look bigger or you can see more of it.
You Experience More Scalp Sunburns
Anyone can experience an unfortunate sunburn on the scalp, but usually this type of burn will only happen to your hair part since it is exposed. However, if you notice that the scalp underneath your hair is getting burned, then you may be experiencing hair thinning.
You Wake Up With More Hair On Your Pillow
Hair shedding is a completely normal phenomenon that happens to everyone. when it becomes a sign of hair loss is when you notice an increase in shedding. one place to look for an increase is your pillow. If you wake up in the morning and notice that there is a lot more hair on your pillow, this could indicate you are experiencing hair thinning.
Your Hair Doesn’t Style Like It Used To
Another more obvious sign of hair thinning is that you can’t style your hair the same anymore. As your hair thins, it might not lay the same, and you may be styling it differently to hide the thinning areas.
Your Hair Is Coming Out In Clumps
Another clear sign of thinning hair is the way it starts to fall out, specifically if it is starting to fall out in clumps. you may notice that as you run your fingers through your hair, clumps, instead of strands, are coming out. additionally, you may notice this in the shower or when you brush your hair.
You Can See Bald Patches
Of course the most obvious sign of hair loss is a visible bald patch. you can develop a bald spot in different areas, and the size of your bald spot can determine where you are in your hair loss process. To identify your balding pattern, you can use the hamilton-norwood scale (for men) or the Ludwig scale (for women) to determine which classification you fall under. Your hair loss specialist will most likely also use these scales to create the best course of action for you.
Common Questions About Hair Loss Causes
There are many reasons you may be losing your hair. age and genetics play a major role, but they are just one part of the story. While we could talk a lot more about this topic, we want to address a few common questions about the causes of hair thinning.
Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?
In short, it can. stress affects everyone differently, but the presence of stress does not guarantee you are going to lose your hair. According to the mayo clinic, “many people experience a general thinning of hair several months after a physical or emotional shock.” It also states that sudden hair loss from stress is temporary. We should also note that prolonged stress can increase your chances of hair loss.
Is There A Correlation Between Vitamin D And Hair Loss?
One small study found that patients with alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss, had lower levels of vitamin D compared to those without alopecia areata. While the research is still developing, we are seeing more evidence that there is a correlation between hair loss and vitamin d deficiency, even in those without an underlying condition. If you believe your hair loss may be due to a vitamin d deficiency, consult with your doctor or contact us for a hair consultation.
Is All Hair Loss Permanent?
There are a few causes of temporary hair loss. As previously mentioned, a sudden shock or stressful event can trigger temporary hair loss as an emotional response. an underlying condition, sudden weight change or poor nutrition can all cause temporary hair loss as well. Finally, cancer or certain diseases can cause temporary hair loss, with many patients seeing their hair return once they recover. Again, if you believe you are experiencing hair loss due to an underlying condition or disease, consult with your doctor.
What’s Next For Thinning Hair?
Now that you know the signs and a few reasons for thinning hair, it’s time to take action. you have options for treating hair loss at every stage of the process. So whether you’ve just started or have a noticeable bald spot now, there are hair loss solutions available to you. Consult with an expert like Dr. Feinberg at the hair restoration center of New Jersey & New York to learn more about your hair loss and what you can do to restore your hair.