What is the Main Cause of Hair Fall? Understanding the Real Reasons Behind Hair Loss

Hair fall reasons can be categorized into two broad groups: internal and external. Internal reasons include genetics, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions. External reasons are linked to daily habits, environmental exposures, and grooming practices. For example, crash diets and poor protein intake weaken hair roots, while frequent heat styling damages hair shafts. Among Indian men, androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) is the leading cause of hair loss, while in women, chronic anemia and PCOS are dominant triggers. By examining these causes in detail, we understand that the main reason for hair fall isn’t just one factor—it’s a cumulative impact of various contributors working together.

One of the common causes of hair fall in India is anemia caused by iron deficiency, affecting nearly 50% of women. Without enough oxygen supply, hair follicles become weak and brittle. Vitamin D deficiency is another widespread concern, especially in urban areas where people spend limited time outdoors. Protein intake is equally vital—hair is primarily made of keratin, and insufficient protein intake leads to excessive shedding. Even vegetarians can meet their protein needs with legumes, nuts, and dairy, but awareness remains low. Zinc, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids also play supportive roles. Thus, diet and supplements tailored to individual needs can significantly reduce hair fall reasons linked to nutrition.

Thyroid conditions are particularly prevalent in India, making them a common cause of hair fall. Women with PCOS face a unique challenge: thinning scalp hair while simultaneously developing excess hair on the face and body. This dual effect can severely impact confidence. Men experiencing androgenetic alopecia often start with a receding hairline or thinning crown, progressing to baldness if untreated. Pregnancy and postpartum hair fall, while temporary, can also be distressing. By understanding how hormonal imbalances affect hair growth, one can seek timely diagnosis and targeted treatments such as thyroid regulation, hormonal therapy, or lifestyle interventions.

Lifestyle and environmental factors are increasingly recognized as key hair fall reasons in India. Cities like Delhi and Mumbai, with high levels of pollution and hard water, create daily stress for scalp health. Work culture adds to the issue—late nights, irregular meals, and constant stress elevate cortisol levels, leading to hair shedding. Chemical treatments like smoothening, rebonding, and coloring damage the hair shaft, making breakage common. Even cultural habits like tying hair too tightly in braids or buns contribute to hair loss. Addressing these triggers requires lifestyle adjustments, from stress management techniques like yoga and meditation to water filtration and gentle hair care routines.

While lifestyle and nutrition can be managed, genetic and medical causes often require long-term treatments. Male pattern baldness is the leading reason for hair loss in Indian men, with millions affected by their 30s. Female pattern thinning is less talked about but equally impactful. Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, which cause sudden patchy bald spots, are distressing but often treatable with steroid injections or immunotherapy. Scalp conditions such as psoriasis or severe dandruff also contribute to excessive shedding. Recognizing when hair fall is beyond lifestyle control and seeking professional medical advice can make the difference between temporary loss and irreversible baldness.

The best way to manage hair fall reasons is to combine traditional wisdom with modern science. In India, herbal oils and remedies like onion juice, fenugreek paste, and hibiscus masks remain popular and effective for many. At the same time, advances in dermatology provide proven solutions for stubborn cases. For example, PRP therapy uses your own blood platelets to stimulate follicle regrowth. Minoxidil remains one of the most effective over-the-counter medications for hair regrowth. However, none of these work if lifestyle issues such as stress and poor nutrition are ignored. Thus, adopting a holistic approach that tackles internal health, external care, and mental well-being offers the most sustainable path to preventing and treating hair loss.