What causes people to lose hair ?
Researchers are also learning that a prostaglandin called PGD2 is found abundantly on the scalps of men with pattern baldness. This compound is believed to also facilitate hair loss.
Genetic predispositions can interact with environmental variables which can either speed up the rate of loss or slow it down. Heavy smoking and alcohol consumption as well as environmental pollutants can exacerbate shedding and thinning . Stress which leads to physiological effects (e.g. poor sleep, diet etc.) can also lead to significant hair loss
Aside from genetics, there are other contributing factors. Side effects from many forms of prescription medications can increase the rate at which hairs enter the telegen effluvium phase. Overactive or underactive thyroid conditions can also lead to rapid hair loss. Also extensions and tight hair styling practices can also lead to balding through follicular damage.