Last updated on May 9, 2024
Hair loss can be a distressing experience, impacting millions of men and women. While it’s often attributed to genetics, thyroid disorders can also play a significant role. So, if you’re asking yourself “Is hair loss genetic or caused by thyroid hormones”, this article is for you! Here are important insights into the differences between genetic predisposition and thyroid-related hair loss from Hair Doctors in Sydney to help you understand the possible causes of hair loss and treatment options available.
Understanding Genetic Hair Loss
Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness, is the most prevalent form of hair loss and is often inherited. Specific genes and family history can increase risk for androgenetic alopecia, where hair follicles die off. In men, genetic hair loss typically manifests as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while women may experience overall thinning across the scalp.
Getting a diagnosis from a healthcare provider is important to determine if you have a thyroid condition or genetic hair loss, as well as to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment plan.
Thyroid Disorders and Hair Loss
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including hair growth cycles and human hair follicle functions. Thyroid disorders, whether hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss and brittle hair. Other symptoms of thyroid disorders, such as fatigue, weight changes, and changes in skin texture, may accompany hair loss.
Differentiating Between Genetic and Thyroid-Related Hair Loss
Distinguishing between genetic and hair loss related to thyroid disorders can be challenging, but certain factors can help you identify the underlying cause. Genetic hair loss like male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness typically follows a gradual, patterned progression as hair follicles die off. In contrast thyroid-related hair loss due to an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid may be accompanied by additional symptoms indicative of thyroid dysfunction. Seeking medical evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Differences Between Genetic Hair Loss & Thyroid Hair Loss | Hair Clinic Sydney
Consulting a Healthcare Provider for Evaluation
If you are experiencing hair loss, consulting a healthcare provider or dermatologist is crucial for a thorough evaluation. The diagnostic process may include blood tests to assess thyroid function, measure your output of thyroid stimulating hormone, check for telogen effluvium (patchy hair loss), and other relevant factors or symptoms. A healthcare provider can determine the underlying cause of hair loss, whether it is genetic or the result of thyroid hormones or a thyroid disorder, and recommend personalised treatment options accordingly.
Treatment Approaches for Genetic Hair Loss and Hair Loss from Thyroid Disorders
Treatment options for genetic hair loss may include medications such as minoxidil and finasteride, hair transplants, and lifestyle modifications. For hair loss from thyroid disorders, addressing the underlying thyroid condition or thyroid disease through medications or lifestyle changes can often resolve hair loss. Whether the cause of your hair loss is genetic or due to an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid, a personalised treatment plan tailored to your individual needs is essential for optimal results.
Maintaining Overall Hair Health
In addition to medical hair loss treatments and treatment if you have a thyroid disorder, maintaining overall hair health is essential for promoting hair growth, supporting normal hair follicle functions, and preventing further loss. This includes:
- Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for hair growth, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Practising stress management techniques to reduce hair loss associated with stress.
- Adopting gentle hair care practices, including using mild shampoos and avoiding excessive heat and styling.
- Emphasising the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and adequate sleep, in supporting healthy hair.
Hair Doctors offer several effective treatment options to men and women suffering from hair loss due to genetic factors or hair loss from thyroid hormone disorders (an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid). To find out more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our hair loss experts, please contact us:
- Call us on 02 7252 3351
- Email us at info@hairdoctors.com.au
- Book online
FAQs
Can hair loss be reversed?
Hair loss can sometimes be reversed with appropriate treatment, depending on the underlying cause. However, it’s essential to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan whether your hair loss is genetic or related to unbalanced thyroid hormone levels (an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid).
Are there any natural remedies for hair loss?
Some natural remedies, such as essential oils, scalp massages, and dietary supplements, may help promote hair growth and improve overall hair health. However, they are not a highly effective or permanent solution to thinning hair from male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) or hair loss due to severe alopecia areata or thyroid function issues such as unbalanced thyroid hormones.
How long does it take to see results from hair loss treatments?
The timeline for seeing results from hair loss treatments varies depending on the specific treatment and individual factors. In general, it may take several months to a year to notice significant improvements in hair follicle growth and hair thickness. In cases where hair loss is caused by an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid, the underlying condition must be treated first and thyroid function returned to healthy levels.
Are hair transplants a permanent solution for hair loss?
Yes, hair transplants utilise permanent hair follicles from donor areas that are resistant to balding, making the results permanent. This is effective for hereditary hair thinning, but not thyroid-related hair loss. For this, you need to treat the underlying condition and can speed up recovery with PRP or PRF injections.
What can I do to stop losing hair?
To prevent further hair loss, it’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management. If you suspect you have hair thinning due to an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid, it is important to see a healthcare provider to check your thyroid hormone level, get an accurate diagnosis, and treatment if you have a thyroid disorder. Additionally, remember that harsh hair treatments, frequent high heat styling, and sun exposure can lead to hair loss.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
About The Author
Dr. Ossman Ashraf
In 2009, Dr Oz graduated from the University of Dundee, UK with a qualification in Men’s Health and Aesthetic Medicine. He then furthered his qualifications in medical education and is currently the Medical Advisor/Educator for MOSH, Australia’s leading online Men’s Health platform. He is accredited by the London Hair Restoration Academy and specialises in using the most up-to-date micro FUE extraction and DHI implantation techniques for transplant surgery.
Hussein B
After years of research, calling and consulting with different hair transplant surgeons across Sydney, I can definitely say Hair Doctors Australia is the best in the business. If you’re after qualified hair transplant surgeons who actually put their patients best interests first, look no further.
Samuel Levi
From the first initial consult, to my first day of surgery I can not highly recommend the team here at the Bondi clinic enough. So professional, and friendly, plus answered every question and worry I had, that was running through my mind. It made the entire process seamless. I’ll be recommending them whole heartedly to anyone who was in a similar situation to me, and wanting a hair transplant.
