Hair loss is a common occurrence, especially among men. Nonetheless, if you are experiencing hair loss or thinning you want to understand why and take measures to hold onto your natural hair as long as possible or restore hair that you've already lost.
There are several different causes of hair loss including environmental factors, lifestyle choices, medications, and health conditions. This can leave you wondering if your hair type leaves you predisposed to hair loss. However, the number one cause of hair loss is genetics. Let's take a closer look at genetics impact on hair loss.
Different Types of Hair
Take a look around you and you will be hard-pressed to find someone else with your exact hair. Every person is different and so is their hair. Hair comes in varying colors, thicknesses, textures, and shape (straight, curly, wavy, etc.) Different types of hair require different care procedures. For instance, dry hair needs additional hydration and curly hair may need a hair care product that tames those long locks. Is there a connection between hair type and balding or thinning? Are you more prone to hair loss just because of what type of hair you have?
Is Your Hair Type a Predictor of Hair Loss?
No, hair type is not a direct predictor of hair loss. You can love your natural hair just the way it is without worrying that it will betray you in the future. How you care for your head and scalp can have an effect on hair loss. For instance, over-using certain products in order to achieve a desired hairstyle have the potential to make your hair brittle and fall out prematurely. Adequate nutrition also helps to ensure that your hair follicles have all the nutrients needed to produce healthy strands of hair. Certain medications and health conditions can result in either permanent or temporary hair loss. With all of this being said, research has not linked hair loss to particular types of hair versus others no matter what the cause may be. To date, genetics still remains the strongest predictor of hair loss.
Genetics Role in Hair Loss
As mentioned above, the type of hair you have will not determine whether you experience hair loss in the future. Your genetic make-up is primarily responsible for making this decision. The genetic factor that bears the greatest significance of whether you will experience hair loss is the androgen receptor. This gene is located on the X chromosome. This means that men's genetic predisposition to hair loss is always inherited from the mother because men inherit a 'Y' chromosome from their father and an 'X' chromosome from their mother. Women, on the other hand, can inherit a genetic predisposition for hair loss from either the maternal or paternal side because they inherit an 'X' chromosome from both the mother and the father.
If you are a man, take a look at your mother's side of your family in order to get an idea of whether genetic hair loss runs in the family. If you are a woman, you will have to look at both your maternal and paternal side to gain more information as to the genetics that may have been passed down to you.
What To Do If You Are Experiencing Genetic Hair Loss?
Understandably, this can be a stressful time, but there's no need to worry! New Look Institute is here to help you regain your full head of hair. Whether you are in the early stages of hair loss or well down the road, our stylists can help you find a solution to fit your needs. We offer everything from treatments to promote natural hair growth to complete restorations that look and feel 100% natural. Our experienced stylists will discuss your unique situation and goals for your hair and then present you with solutions to meet your needs and budget. Contact us today to book your FREE scalp and hair analysis!
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