Am I experiencing hair loss at age 22, what factor could it be? (Photo)

Question

Two years ago I was studying for an important exam. After after that exam season, I started to notice something, like whenever I combed my hair, especially in the area where my hair is currently thinning, I would see A lot of hair coming out and getting caught between the teeth of the comb. I wasn’t paying much attention to it because I was convinced it was stress, fast forward to now I’m quite concern because it’s quite noticeable after cutting my long hair. My hairline is NOT receding also.

Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. Hair thinning or hair loss can be worse when experiencing life stressors, however when it doesn't resolve after that stress is removed, and is bothersome, it would be worth a consultation to rule out other causes. Hair loss can occur for a multitude of reasons including family history & genetics, vitamin deficiencies and recent illness among others. In our practice, we would perform a comprehensive consultation including scalp examination and lab work to formulate the best treatment plan. I hope this helped and best of luck! Esther Litenatsky, AGACNP-BC for Dr. Ran Rubinstein, MD double board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Laser and Cosmetic Surgery Specialists (Newburgh, NY) and Rubinstein Plastic Surgery Center (Montvale, NJ).

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Experiencing hair loss at the age of 22 can be concerning, but it's important to recognize that many factors can contribute to hair loss. Given your history and the timeline, several potential causes should be considered:

1. **Telogen Effluvium**: This is often triggered by a significant stressor, such as the intense studying and stress you experienced during your exam season. Telogen effluvium typically causes diffuse thinning across the scalp rather than a receding hairline. Hair loss usually occurs several months after the stressful event and can persist for several months.

2. **Nutritional Deficiencies**: Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in hair health. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin D, and biotin can lead to hair thinning and loss.

3. **Hormonal Changes**: Hormonal imbalances, including those related to thyroid function or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause hair loss.

4. **Genetic Factors**: While androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) typically involves a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, it can sometimes present differently, especially in females, leading to overall thinning without a distinct pattern.

5. **Hair Care Practices**: Frequent use of harsh hair treatments, tight hairstyles, or heat styling can contribute to hair breakage and loss.

6. **Medical Conditions**: Certain medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata, can cause hair loss.

7. **Medications**: Some medications, including those for acne, depression, and high blood pressure, can have side effects that include hair loss.

Given your situation, it would be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or a trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp disorders). They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:

- Reviewing your medical history and any medications you are taking.
- Conducting a physical examination of your scalp.
- Ordering blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying conditions.

In the meantime, some general tips to help manage and potentially reduce hair loss include:

- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or counseling.
- Using gentle hair care products and avoiding excessive heat or harsh treatments.
- Ensuring adequate sleep and hydration.

Early intervention can often help manage hair loss more effectively, so seeking professional advice sooner rather than later is recommended.

Ross Kopelman, DO · Answer

It’s not uncommon to start noticing hair loss at a young age, especially after periods of intense stress like studying for exams. From what you’ve described, it sounds like you may be experiencing telogen effluvium, which is a form of temporary hair loss often triggered by stress, illness, or changes in your life. In telogen effluvium, the hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, leading to more shedding than usual, especially when combing or washing your hair.
Since your hairline isn’t receding, this is less likely to be classic male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), which typically causes hairline recession and thinning on the crown. However, if you’re still losing noticeable amounts of hair, it could be worth looking into other factors like your diet, nutrient levels (especially iron or vitamin D), or even a possible hormonal imbalance.
I’d recommend focusing on managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and possibly incorporating hair-supportive vitamins or treatments like minoxidil if the thinning persists.

Jacquelline Leva, DO · Answer

Hi You may want to consider to do evaluation for scarring alopecia. Maybe you have a combination of scarring alopecia, early onset adrogenic alopecia All these things require a biopsy and lab tests to support diagnosis. Speak to your dermatologist You may need more than just prp...prescription based medication, minoxdil, low light laser therapy, steroid injections...

Am I experiencing hair loss at age 22, what factor could it be? (Photo)

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Am I experiencing hair loss at age 22, what factor could it be? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Evaluation required

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