Thinning Hair and Hair Loss: Causes and Solutions
- Heather Oliver
- 5 days ago
- 9 min read
What's Inside:
Common Causes of Hair Loss and Thinning Hair
Hair Service Solutions
Scalp and Hair Treatment Solutions
Hair Product Solutions for Thinning Hair and Hair Loss
Got thinning hair or experiencing hair loss? You're not alone. According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), 40% of women experience hair fall by the time they reach age 50. For men in their 50s, it's even higher—85% will experience noticeably thinning hair, with as much as 25% experiencing male pattern baldness before turning 21.
Common Causes of Hair Loss and Thinning Hair
There are many different causes of thinning hair or hair loss. Some are unavoidable, while others are induced by external factors. I'll briefly cover the most common causes.
Hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
Hands down, the most common cause of hair loss is hereditary and is one of the many joys of aging.🙃It's usually gradual, and starts as a receding hairline. In men, this usually begins at the forehead. In women, it often starts where you part your hair, though receding hairlines are also possible.
Hormonal
Another culprit of thinning hair or hair loss are hormonal changes. The big ones are from pregnancy, menopause, insulin resistance, and changes to estrogen or testosterone levels.
Medical conditions and treatments
There are several medical conditions that can lead to thinning hair or hair loss. For example, autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disease, psoriasis, lupus, graves disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, to name a few, are well known for causing hair loss or thinning locks. Medications can also contribute to hair fall, even those that are used to treat the conditions mentioned above.
Scalp infections
Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis, impetigo, bacterial infections on the scalp, or fungal infections such as ringworm (Tinea Capitis) can lead to temporary or permanent hair fall. This is because these conditions can damage the hair follicles. The earlier you treat scalp infections, the better the outcome, so don't put it off if you suspect you have a scalp infection.
Stress
It may come as a surprise, but really shouldn't, considering the havoc stress can wreak on your physical and mental health. But stress can also cause hair loss or thinning hair. Stress-induced hair fall is usually temporary, but that doesn't make it any less upsetting when you experience it.
Nutrition
Most people only think about nutrition and their physical health and weight. But nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to hair loss and thinning hair. Lack of vitamins D, C, B12, iron, and zinc as well as too little protein are just a few examples known to weaken hair follicles and block keratin production in your hair. Yet another reason to get to eat better, amirite?!
Solutions for hair loss and thinning hair
Luckily, it's not all doom and gloom when it comes to hair loss or thinning strands. There are numerous, non-invasive, nonmedical solutions that can help improve these conditions. Of course, don't bypass your doctor. It's always best to understand the "why" behind the hair loss to get the best treatments.
Hair Services
The fastest and easiest way to get thicker, fuller locks is with professional hair services. You'll get a beautiful style you'll love that'll also look and feel natural.
Hair Extensions
One of our specialties here at Alkali are hair extensions. Many people think extensions are only for adding length. While that is a big reason some people get them, the most popular extension services are volume treatments. They are extraordinary at adding volume and fullness.
Of course, this isn't a solution for baldness, but if you have some hair to work with, extensions can make your hair look thicker and fuller. With reusable hair, extensions can last up to eight months with proper care and maintenance visits between six and eight weeks.
Don't get too scared off by "proper care," either. It's mostly common sense. For the most part, you treat extensions just like you would your natural hair, with only a few caveats. Book a free extension consultation to learn more about how extensions can help you get the hair of your dreams..
Did you know?: We offer payment plans through Cherry! It doesn't hurt your credit to see what you're approved for and applications are fast and easy. Treat today, pay later!
Hair Toppers
A topper is a full-on hair replacement system that can be absolutely life changing. This solution addresses thinning hair on top of the head, where extensions can't be used. Toppers work by melding a hairpiece seamlessly with your natural hair. Alkali uses the Revive Topper system and 100% human hair. The Revive system is extremely customizable, requires no shaving or medical treatment, and best of all, it's super easy to maintain.
We have two stylists certified in toppers: Amber Woodall and Mary Lea Dominick. If you're experiencing thinning hair, book a free consultation with either of our topper specialists to see how it can make your hair dreams come true.
Wigs
Another option is to wear a wig. Gone are the days when wearing a wig was obvious—at least when you opt for high quality wigs that are professionally cut and colored. There are now handcrafted, human hair wigs with all kinds of textures to choose from that are easy to care for and maintain.
Scalp treatments
Let's be honest. We all put a lot of emphasis on our hair, which makes sense as it's the "crown" we wear every day. Problem is, we tend to neglect the scalp—It's out of sight out, out of mind. Often, we only give our scalps attention when a problem arises, such as hair loss, dandruff, oily hair, itchiness, or other pesky issues.
But here's the kicker:
Taking care of the scalp can prevent many hair and scalp issues from happening in the first place. Yes, even hair fall and thinning in some cases. That's because healthy hair starts at the scalp!
Unfortunately, just washing and conditioning your hair isn't enough for your scalp to be in optimal condition. The good news is, there are hair treatments that can improve scalp and hair health significantly.
Head Spa Treatments
One of the biggest reasons we started offering head spa treatments at our spa was for the incredible health benefits they provide, but in this blog, I'll focus on the aspects that treat the hair and scalp.
How Head Spa Treatments Help Hair Loss and Promote Hair Growth
Head spa treatments—especially YUME treatments—are transformative treatments designed to improve your scalp and hair health. Not only that, but they boost hair growth and enhance product absorption for at home care.
Improved Blood Circulation
One of the big things a head spa treatment does is improve blood circulation. This is important as your blood circulation is part of the system that delivers oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles. The better your circulation, the healthier your hair and scalp, and the better your hair grows.
Scalp pH
Proper head spa treatments like YUME also balance the pH of your scalp. This is crucial as your hair needs a healthy environment to grow. The sweet spot for your scalp is to achieve pH levels between 4.5 and 5.5.
When the scalp is a tad acidic, it helps safeguard the hair cuticle, provides a natural barrier of protection against fungi and bacteria, regulates sebum production, prevents dryness, and promotes moisture retention and shine.
Scalp Cleanse and Detox
Detoxification plays a huge role in creating a healthy scalp environment. Head spa treatments focus on deep cleansing and exfoliation, which removes excess buildup on the scalp.
Even with regular shampooing, your scalp accumulates dead skin cells, oils, and product residue that clogs hair follicles. When follicles are clogged, they're unable to properly function, and this can disrupt the hair's ability to grow and for the scalp to retain optimal health.
Stress Management
As mentioned earlier, stress can contribute to hair loss and thinning hair. Head spa treatments are extremely relaxing. They not only lower stress, but cortisol levels as well.
Since cortisol affects the function of hair follicles and stress affects cortisol levels, it's imperative to keep the two in check to maintain healthy hair—as well as your overall health. When stress and cortisol levels are high, it can cause what's called hair cycle arrest (HCA), which disrupts the hair growth cycle and can lead to hair loss.
Hair and Scalp Nourishment
Just like your body needs vitamins and nutrients for optimal health, so does your hair and scalp. This can be a huge differentiator between head spa services at various spas, as the quality of products used makes a significant difference in the outcome of your treatments, especially over time.
Your treatment should include high quality products tailored to the unique condition of your hair and scalp. Many spas take a one-size-fits-all approach, which doesn't deliver as good of results as it could—or should—so that's something to consider when looking for a head spa.
If you come to Alkali for a head spa treatment, you'll receive a customized treatment based on the current condition of your scalp and hair and your hair goals. We provide YUME head spa treatments, which use authentic Japanese techniques and rituals. We also use curated Oribe products based on your intake form, and always use clean, temperature-controlled water throughout the process for superior results.
Want to add a YUME head spa treatment to your self care routine? We offer monthly memberships—you save 20%!
Hydrafacial Keravive Treatment
Another scalp treatment we highly recommend (and offer) is a Keravive treatment. Think of it like a Hydrafacial for your scalp. This treatment is not the same as a head spa treatment. In fact, we highly recommend getting a YUME head spa treatment prior to a Keravive treatment, as it will boost product absorption during the Keravive treatment.
Whereas a head spa treatment promotes better circulation and product absorption, a Keravive treatment is designed to deposit vitamins and nutrients that are scientifically proven to nourish hair follicles and balance the scalp environment. This treatment purifies and exfoliates, boosts hair growth and fullness, and protects from external environmental factors.
Best Shampoo For Hair Loss and Hair Products for Thinning Hair
You aren't just relegated to services to treat thinning hair or hair loss. There are some incredible products that can help you boost hair growth and volume from home.
Oribe Densifying collection
Our top recommendation for at-home care for hair fall or thinning hair is Oribe's Densifying collection. This collection was developed in conjunction with a board-certified trichologist to address hair shedding and thinning hair while offering the same luxurious experience Oribe products are known for.
Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo
If you're looking for a hair loss shampoo, this might be the one! Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo is formulated to gently cleanse and stimulate the scalp. With Capixyl, a biomimetic peptide blended with powerful ingredients such as pea sprout and red clover extract, it also works to reduce shedding, preserve hair integrity, and even plumps hair strands for fuller, healthier hair in as little as three months.
Did you know?: Biomimetic peptides like Capixyl are synthetic peptides used in skincare and pharmaceuticals. They mimic the function of naturally occurring peptides and are able to promote highly specific biological responses by interacting with cellular processes.
Serene Scalp Densifying Conditioner
This conditioner is a conditioning milk formulated with some of the same ingredients as the shampoo to amplify hair thickening while simultaneously detangling and hydrating the hair. The best part it is, it doesn't weigh your hair down.
Serene Scalp Densifying Treatment Spray
Previously known as Serene Scalp Thickening Spray, this treatment is incredibly effective at giving hair volume and plumpness at the root. Over three months of regular use, it makes hair feel fuller, thicker, and improves hair health. It also balances and revitalizes the scalp. Bonus points: it's fragrance free.
Hair Thickening Spray
Another way to give your hair the appearance of being thicker and fuller is to use products specifically designed for this very task. That's where hair thickening sprays come in. They can do wonders when it comes to styling thinning hair.
Our top recommendations are:
Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray
We love this spray at Alkali because it truly does build exaggerated volume, just like it says it does. Maximista also provides heat protection and a medium hold, making it a versatile product.
Oribe Thick Dry Finishing Spray
Another thickening spray that really pumps up the volume in your hair. Thick Dry Finishing Spray adds density with a dry hold that's never sticky. It also extends the life of your blowout!
Back of Bottle Lifted Volumizer BOB Lifted is an excellent volumizing spray for achieving more lift at the root. It provides long-lasting fullness, it's weightless, and it's also bunny certified cruelty-free and Vegan.
Pairing a thickening spray with a collection like Oribe's Densifying line lets style your hair to look thicker and fuller while you treat.
You Can Have Thicker Hair
The bottom line: there are several options and techniques that can help you fight thinning hair or hair loss without side effects that commonly occur from medical treatments like Rogaine or Minoxidil.
Of course, it's always best to consult your doctor about any scalp and hair issues you might have to learn of any underlying causes and to ensure the head spa or Keravive treatments are safe for you. But the good news is, these treatments are generally safe and well tolerated by most, as are high quality products designed to stimulate hair growth or make hair appear fuller.
Hair services like hair extensions, toppers, and professionally cut and colored wigs are also great solutions that will give you immediate results. Talk to your stylist about your options and start your journey to amazing hair today.
