Hair loss can be unsettling, but figuring out what's causing it is the first step toward finding a solution.
Whether you're noticing excessive shedding, thinning patches, or a receding hairline, a proper diagnosis can help determine the best course of action.
This guide breaks down the process step by step, so you know what to expect when seeking answers about your hair health.
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What causes hair loss?
Hair loss happens for many reasons, and not all of them are permanent. Sometimes it’s genetic, other times it's triggered by lifestyle, medical conditions, or even stress. Understanding the cause can help you find the right approach to slow or reverse the process.
- Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia or pattern baldness.
- Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid issues, pregnancy, menopause, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can contribute to hair thinning.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Low levels of iron, vitamin D, and certain B vitamins can lead to excessive shedding.
- Stress and trauma: Physical or emotional stress can push more hair follicles into the shedding phase (telogen effluvium).
- Medications and treatments: Chemotherapy, blood thinners, and some antidepressants may cause temporary or permanent hair loss.
- Scalp conditions: Dandruff, psoriasis, and fungal infections can weaken hair follicles.
- Hairstyling habits: Tight ponytails, braids, and excessive heat styling can lead to traction alopecia.
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How do you know if your hair loss is abnormal?

Losing some hair every day is normal. On average, people shed 50 to 100 hairs daily as part of the natural hair cycle. However, if you notice excessive shedding, thinning areas, or patches of baldness, it could indicate an underlying issue.
If your hair is clogging the shower drain, coming out in clumps when you brush, or revealing noticeable gaps in your scalp, it’s worth paying attention to.
Another red flag is when new hair doesn’t seem to be growing back, or the regrowth is thinner and weaker than before.
Sometimes, hair loss is temporary and linked to stress, diet, or medications.
But if it's persistent, gradually worsening, or accompanied by itching, burning, or redness on the scalp, a medical evaluation is a good idea.
How to diagnose hair loss
Here's how to diagnose hair loss:
- Look for early signs – Thinning, excessive shedding, bald patches, or a widening part.
- Consult a specialist – A doctor will assess family history, lifestyle, and medical factors.
- Get a scalp exam – Checking for irritation, inflammation, or specific hair loss patterns.
- Take a hair pull test – A simple method to measure excessive shedding.
- Review possible triggers – Stress, medications, hormones, and hair care habits.
- Undergo diagnostic tests – Blood tests, scalp biopsy, or light microscopy if needed.
- Understand the cause – Hair loss may be genetic, stress-related, or due to medical conditions.
Now, let’s break down each step in detail to help you understand what to expect.
Step 1: Recognizing the signs of hair loss
The first step in diagnosis is identifying patterns and changes in hair growth. Common signs include:
- Gradual thinning on the crown or hairline (often hereditary).
- Increased shedding when brushing or washing your hair.
- Patches of bald spots, sometimes with itching or irritation.
- Widening part line or receding hairline.
- Overall hair density decreasing over time.
Pay attention to when the hair loss started, how fast it’s progressing, and whether you have other symptoms like scalp discomfort or changes in nail health.
Step 2: Consulting a doctor or specialist
A dermatologist or hair specialist can help pinpoint the cause of your hair loss. During the appointment, they’ll ask about:
- Family history of hair loss.
- Recent illnesses, surgeries, or significant stress events.
- Diet and nutritional habits.
- Hair care routine, including products and styling practices.
- Medications or hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause).
This discussion helps the doctor narrow down potential causes before running tests.
Step 3: Physical examination of the scalp and hair
A doctor will carefully inspect your scalp to look for signs of inflammation, irritation, or infections. They’ll also assess the hair’s density, texture, and overall health.
Some conditions, like alopecia areata, have distinct patterns, while others, like telogen effluvium, present with general thinning. A close examination helps determine the next steps in testing.
Step 4: Hair pull test
This simple but effective test helps measure hair shedding. The doctor gently pulls a small section of hair—around 40 to 60 strands—to see how many fall out.
- If only a few hairs come loose, the shedding is likely normal.
- If several hairs detach easily, it could indicate excessive hair loss.
This test helps determine whether the issue is temporary (such as stress-related shedding) or something more persistent.
Step 5: Reviewing medical history and lifestyle factors
Certain conditions and lifestyle choices contribute to hair thinning. A doctor may assess:
- Hormonal health: Thyroid disorders, PCOS, pregnancy, or menopause-related changes.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Low iron, vitamin D, zinc, or protein intake.
- Stress levels: Chronic stress or trauma that may trigger temporary shedding.
- Medications: Blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, or chemotherapy treatments.
- Hairstyling practices: Frequent heat styling, tight hairstyles, or chemical treatments.
Understanding these factors can help rule out or confirm potential causes.
Step 6: Diagnostic tests for hair loss
If necessary, doctors may run tests to dig deeper into the cause of hair loss.
- Blood tests – These check for conditions like anaemia, thyroid dysfunction, and vitamin deficiencies.
- Scalp biopsy – A small sample of the scalp is taken and examined under a microscope to detect infections or autoimmune diseases.
- Light microscopy – Hair strands are analysed at the base to uncover structural abnormalities or damage.
These tests help doctors get a clearer picture of what's happening at the follicular level.
Step 7: Understanding the diagnosis
Once the results are in, the doctor will explain the type of hair loss you have and potential treatment options. Common diagnoses include:
- Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness): The most common type of hair loss, caused by genetics and hormones.
- Telogen effluvium: A temporary condition triggered by stress, illness, or major life changes.
- Alopecia areata: An autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss.
- Scalp infections: Fungal or bacterial conditions that weaken the hair follicles.
- Traction alopecia: Hair loss from repeated tension on the scalp due to tight hairstyles.
- Medical-related hair loss: Conditions like lupus, chemotherapy side effects, or chronic illness-related shedding.
Each type of hair loss has different treatment options, so a clear diagnosis is key to finding the right solution.
Next steps after diagnosis
Once you have a diagnosis, the next move depends on the cause of your hair loss. If it's related to a medical condition, treating the underlying issue—whether it's a hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiency, or autoimmune disorder—may help slow or reverse the shedding.
Your doctor may recommend lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, or specific treatments to address the root cause.
For genetic hair loss or conditions like androgenetic alopecia, you might explore FDA-approved medications like minoxidil or finasteride. These can help slow the progression of hair loss and, in some cases, encourage regrowth.
Hair transplants, low-level laser therapy, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments are also options if you're looking for more advanced interventions.
If your hair loss is temporary, like telogen effluvium from stress or illness, patience is key. The hair cycle should return to normal once the trigger is removed, but supporting your scalp with gentle care, balanced nutrition, and stress management can help speed up recovery.
Whatever the cause, early action makes a difference. Speak with a specialist about the best treatment plan for you, and remember—hair health isn't just about quick fixes; it's about long-term care.
A holistic approach to your overall hair health

Addressing hair loss isn’t just about treating the symptoms—it’s about giving your scalp and follicles the best possible environment to thrive.
Alongside medical treatments, incorporating science-backed hair care products can play a valuable role in maintaining hair strength and promoting regrowth.
One such product is Bio-Pilixin Activation Serum, developed to support hair growth and reduce hair loss.
This drug-free formula is powered by plant-based growth factors derived through stem cell technology, providing the scalp with targeted nourishment to help maintain healthier follicles.
Bio-Pilixin has undergone clinical testing, showing promising results:
- 77% of participants noticed reduced hair loss in just 45 days.
- 93% experienced a measurable decrease in shedding after 150 days.
- 73% saw an increase in hair density within five months.
The formula includes key ingredients like Capilia Longa®, Niacinamide, and Vanillyl Butyl Ether, each selected for its role in strengthening hair, supporting scalp circulation, and encouraging regrowth.
Many users first notice less hair in the shower within weeks, an early sign that shedding is slowing down.
If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective addition to your hair care routine, Bio-Pilixin offers a research-backed option.
With its 150-day money-back guarantee, it’s a risk-free way to see how your hair responds.
Conclusion
Hair loss can feel overwhelming, but understanding the cause is the first step toward finding a solution. Whether it’s due to genetics, hormonal shifts, stress, or medical conditions, there are plenty of ways to manage and even reverse it.
A proper diagnosis from a specialist will guide you toward the right treatment path, whether that’s adjusting your diet, managing stress, exploring topical solutions like Bio-Pilixin, or considering medical treatments.
The earlier you take action, the better your chances of maintaining healthy, strong hair.
No single approach works for everyone, but with the right combination of lifestyle changes, scalp care, and targeted treatments, you can support your hair’s natural growth cycle and keep it in the best shape possible.
FAQs
How do I know if my hair loss is permanent?
If your hair loss is gradual, follows a pattern, or runs in your family, it may be genetic. A dermatologist can confirm this with an examination and tests. Temporary shedding, like telogen effluvium, usually stops once the underlying trigger is resolved.
Can stress really cause hair loss?
Yes, stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, causing increased shedding. This type of hair loss (telogen effluvium) is usually temporary, but managing stress through sleep, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help.
How long does it take to see hair regrowth?
It depends on the cause. If the hair loss is temporary, regrowth may begin within months after the trigger is removed. Treatments like minoxidil or Bio-Pilixin may take a few months to show visible improvements.
Will changing my diet help with hair loss?
A nutrient-rich diet can support hair health. Iron, biotin, vitamin D, and protein are especially important. If a deficiency is causing shedding, adjusting your diet or taking supplements can make a difference.
Does wearing a hat cause baldness?
No, this is a myth. Hats don’t cause hair loss, but tight-fitting ones worn constantly may contribute to breakage or traction alopecia over time.
Is hair loss reversible?
It depends on the cause. Some types, like stress-related shedding, are reversible. Genetic hair loss isn’t fully reversible, but treatments can slow it down and even encourage some regrowth.
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