What Factors Play a Role in Unhealthy Hair?
November 2011
in “
Informa Healthcare eBooks
”
UV light humidity chemical treatments dyes relaxants mechanical damage styling tools extensions hormonal changes substance abuse systemic diseases hair loss graying hair texture changes male pattern hair loss female pattern hair loss anti-androgen therapy hyperandrogenemia conditioners moisturizers hair dye hair relaxer hair styling tools hair extensions gray hair hair texture pattern baldness anti-androgen treatment high androgen levels hair conditioner hair moisturizer
TLDR Environmental, chemical, mechanical, and personal health factors can all damage hair and contribute to hair loss or changes in hair quality.
The 2011 document identifies environmental, chemical, mechanical, and innate factors as contributors to unhealthy hair. UV light, humidity, chemical treatments like dyes and relaxants, and mechanical damage from styling tools and extensions can harm the hair's cuticle and cortex. Innate factors include hormonal changes, substance abuse, and systemic diseases, which can lead to hair loss, graying, and changes in hair texture. By age 50, approximately 50% of men and women experience hair loss, with male and female pattern hair loss peaking at different decades of life. Anti-androgen therapy may help women with hyperandrogenemia-related hair loss, but most women with pattern hair loss do not have high androgen levels. The document highlights the importance of general health and protective strategies, such as using conditioners and moisturizers, to maintain healthy hair and minimize damage.
