Hair loss is progressive

One of the biggest misconceptions about hair loss is that it happens all at once. Most of the time, it doesn’t. Hair loss is often a gradual process, and because it happens so slowly, many people don’t realize it is progressing until they can clearly see a difference.

Think about it this way: You probably don’t wake up one morning and suddenly have half as much hair as you did a few years ago. Instead, you may notice that your ponytail feels smaller, your part looks a little wider or your hair doesn’t seem to have the same fullness it once did. Maybe your hairdresser is the first person to notice that your scalp is becoming more visible.

This gradual change is especially common with genetic or pattern hair loss. Over time, individual hair follicles can become smaller and produce finer, shorter hairs. Eventually, some follicles may stop producing noticeable hair altogether. That’s why waiting until hair loss becomes obvious can make addressing it more difficult.

Another reason people overlook progressive hair loss is that we see ourselves every day. Small changes are hard to notice when they happen little by little. Looking at an old photograph can sometimes be a real eye-opener.

Hair loss can also progress for different reasons. Genetics, hormonal changes, aging, certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid problems, stress and some medical conditions can all play a role. Sometimes, more than one factor is involved.

The good news is that noticing the change early gives you an opportunity to understand what is happening. That doesn’t necessarily mean jumping on the latest hair loss product or trying every remedy you see advertised. It means paying attention and, when necessary, finding out why your hair is changing.

If your hair seems thinner than it used to be, don’t simply assume it’s part of getting older and forget about it. Take some pictures, compare them with older ones, talk with your hair care professional and consider discussing blood testing with a health care professional.

Hair loss doesn’t always have to be dramatic to be significant. Sometimes, the earliest signs are the most important ones to notice.

The bottom line is simple: Hair loss is often a process, not an event. The sooner you recognize that process, the sooner you can understand what may be causing it and what options you have.

Joy Ross is the owner of Style It Salon. styleitsalon.com, 843-338-1530.