Hair loss is a fairly common disorder that can affect men and women differently. Professor Antonio Costanzo, Head of Dermatology in Humanitas, spoke about this topic in an interview with Cuore e denari on Radio 24.
The loss of a small amount of hair is normal; even if it is not easy to count them, we can lose around 80-100 hairs a day. However, a greater loss deserves further study.
“Another fact to take into account is the thickness of the hair, because the hair may not fall, but begin to thin and cycle after cycle we get to the birth of a thinner hair,” explains Professor Costanzo.
The causes of hair loss
Androgenetic alopecia (what we commonly call baldness) can affect men and women. This form of alopecia is due to a genetic predisposition and extreme sensitivity of the cells of the hair follicle to androgenic hormones.
Thinning occurs in men with a receding hairline, while in women the area of the central line becomes more limited, the tail of hair becomes thinner and thinner and the hair appears more fine and fragile.
Hormonal and nutritional factors, such as an overly rigid diet or iron deficiency, also play a role in hair loss, especially in women.
The role of nutrition
“A healthy and balanced diet is essential for many aspects of our body, but it is also important for stronger hair, especially in women. Poor nutrition, along with pollution, stress, sun exposure and smoking, would play a key role in promoting hair loss.
Like other organs, hair needs vitamins and trace elements to grow strong and healthy. In particular biotin (contained in whole grains), vitamins of group B (legumes), vitamin E (parsley, carrots and spinach) and antioxidants (dark green leafy vegetables, berries, tomatoes and all fruit with yellow or orange peel). The contribution of these substances can slow down the appearance of androgenetic alopecia,” says Professor Costanzo.
