Health experts say hair follicles can serve as a great clue to what's going on inside our bodies.
Annabelle Kingsley, a hair health consultant, explains that hair is sensitive to internal imbalances.
Below are the most prominent hair problems that tell us a lot about our health:
- Loss of clumps of hair
A person loses about 100 hairs a day, however, when more hair is constantly falling out than usual, there is likely an underlying problem.
Kingsley says that excessive hair loss is caused by some internal disorders, such as iron, vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disorders including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and rapid weight loss.
Other causes of excessive hair loss include: poor diet, stress, high fever, surgery under general anesthesia, and certain medications.
- The appearance of empty spots in random places on the heads of men and women
This may be a sign of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks hair follicles and leads to hair loss in certain areas of the head.
Although alopecia is not always a sign of an underlying health condition, Kingsley says, "People with other autoimmune diseases are more susceptible to it."
Research has shown that the condition can initially result from periods of extreme stress.
- Hair loss and thinning in women
Hormonal imbalances are often the cause of hair loss or thinning in women.
Hair expert, Elena Lavagne, explains that conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause a type of hair loss known as androgenic alopecia.
Hyperthyroidism may also cause hair thinning, while hypothyroidism can lead to dry hair and noticeable hair loss.
Hair loss can also be a common symptom of menopause.
- Split ends and dry hair
“Split ends and dryness are usually signs of hair damage due to factors such as excessive heat styling, or over-processing with chemicals,” say experts.
Wind, pollution, and sun damage can contribute to split ends.
- Itching or dandruff on the scalp
Dandruff can be a sign of overgrowth, allergies, or a deficiency of essential fatty acids and a deficiency of vitamins A, B2, B3, B6 and C, biotin and the minerals manganese, selenium or zinc.
It can be caused by stress (neurodermitis), shampoo allergy, or skin conditions, such as scalp psoriasis or eczema.
Excessively oily hair
If your hair looks like an oily slick despite washing it, there could be different factors responsible for it.
Experts say: “Hormonal imbalances or improper hair care practices can be the reason behind hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands (located in the hair follicles).”
An oily scalp is "common in people with polycystic ovary syndrome." Stress can "increase sebum production, making the scalp oily quickly."
- Hair that is duller than usual
Dull hair often indicates a lack of moisture and natural oils, which can be caused by factors such as over-washing, heat styling, or nutrient deficiencies.
Therefore, you should make sure to maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals necessary for hair health, such as vitamins A, C, E, and biotin.”
Hair multivitamins, which target healthy hair, nails and skin, can help ensure you get the nutrients you need.
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