What Causes Excessive Hair Loss and What Are the Treatment Options?
Hair loss can occur periodically in almost everyone. However, if hair loss exceeds 100 strands per day, it is no longer considered physiological but a medical issue.
Excessive hair loss can cause significant psychological and aesthetic distress in both women and men. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist early is the most effective way to stop hair loss.
Dermatologist Dr. Ezgi Özkur emphasizes that correctly identifying the cause of hair loss is the foundation of successful treatment:
“Hair loss is not caused by a single factor. Hormonal imbalance, stress, nutritional deficiencies, vitamin shortages, or genetic predisposition can all contribute. The first step is to understand the type of hair loss.”
How Much Hair Loss per Day Is Normal?
Under normal conditions, losing 50–100 strands of hair per day is natural. Each hair strand has a life cycle—it grows, rests, and eventually falls out.
However, if large amounts of hair are noticed in the shower, on the pillow, or in the brush, this may indicate excessive shedding.
Excessive Hair Loss After Showering
Hair loss after showering is often seasonal or stress-related. However, if it continues for several weeks, potential causes such as vitamin deficiency, thyroid disorders, or iron deficiency should be investigated.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women
In women, hair loss is often associated with telogen effluvium (diffuse hair shedding), the postpartum period, iron deficiency, or hormonal imbalance (PCOS, thyroid disorders). Temporary hair loss after childbirth is common but should return to normal within 3–6 months.
Most Common Causes in Women
- Low ferritin, vitamin D, or B12 levels
- Thyroid hormone disorders
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or birth control pill use
- Intense stress or rapid weight changes
- Frequent heat or chemical exposure (dyeing, straightening, blow-drying)
Dr. Ezgi Özkur’s Recommendation: “In women, hair loss is often temporary. However, if shedding lasts longer than 3 months, iron and thyroid levels should be checked, and PRP or mesotherapy treatments can be added for support.”
Causes of Hair Loss in Men
The most common form of hair loss in men is androgenetic alopecia, or genetic (male-pattern) hair loss. Due to sensitivity to the DHT hormone, the hairline recedes and thinning occurs on the crown area.
Frequent Causes in Men
- Genetic predisposition
- Excess DHT hormone
- Stress and sleep disorders
- Nutritional deficiencies (especially zinc, iron, vitamin D)
- Frequent use of hair styling products such as gels or sprays
Treatments for Male-Pattern Hair Loss
- PRP hair treatment: Platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood is injected into the scalp.
- Mesotherapy for hair loss: Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are injected into the hair follicles.
- Topical or systemic treatments: Medications such as minoxidil or finasteride can be used under dermatological supervision.
Which Diseases Can Cause Excessive Hair Loss?
Hair loss may sometimes signal underlying conditions such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., alopecia areata), hormonal disorders, or infections. Therefore, persistent shedding should always be evaluated by a physician.
Which Department Should You See for Hair Loss?
The correct department for hair loss is dermatology.
A dermatologist examines the scalp with a dermatoscope to determine the type of hair loss and may order blood tests or a biopsy if needed.
If advanced treatments like PRP or hair transplantation are required, referral is again made by the dermatologist.
How to Prevent Excessive Hair Loss?
While it is not always possible to stop hair loss completely, it can often be controlled with the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
PRP Hair Treatment
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) involves injecting plasma, rich in platelets derived from the patient’s own blood, into the scalp.
- Accelerates cell regeneration
- Revitalizes hair follicles
- Increases hair density over time
PRP is safe for both men and women. Typically, 3–4 sessions are sufficient, and visible results are achieved within 2–3 months.
Mesotherapy for Hair Loss
Hair mesotherapy involves injecting a blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids into the scalp through micro-needles.
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Reduces shedding and promotes new hair growth
- Usually performed as 4–6 session courses
Mesotherapy is highly effective for seasonal or stress-related hair loss.
Exosome Hair Therapy
Exosomes are microscopic vesicles that transfer messages between cells and contain growth factors and biological signals. In hair restoration, the goal is to improve the scalp’s microenvironment, reduce inflammation, support stem cell signaling, and stimulate the anagen (growth) phase.
How Is It Applied?
- Topical anesthesia is applied before the procedure.
- Microneedling creates micro-channels, followed by topical and/or intradermal exosome application.
- Each session lasts about 20–40 minutes.
Number of Sessions and Protocol
- Typically 1–3 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart
- Can be combined with PRP or mesotherapy on the same day or alternating sessions
Recovery and Aftercare
- Avoid water and sweating for the first 24 hours; avoid acidic products (AHA/BHA/retinoids) for 72 hours
- Avoid saunas, hot showers, and heavy exercise for 48 hours
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
Who Is It Suitable For?
- Early-stage male/female pattern hair loss, thinning, or seasonal shedding (telogen effluvium)
- Not suitable for: Active scalp infections, pregnancy/breastfeeding, bleeding disorders, or autoimmune flare-ups
Results and Side Effects
- Hair shedding reduction typically within 6–12 weeks; density/quality improvement within 3–6 months
- Mild redness or swelling may occur; risks are minimal under sterile conditions
Note: Exosome products are not drugs; they are used as supportive therapies. Scientific evidence on their effectiveness is rapidly growing. Always consult your dermatologist for suitability.
Can Hair Loss Be Treated at Home?
Home remedies and cosmetic treatments may slow shedding but cannot address the root cause.
Supportive methods at home include:
- Massaging with natural oils such as rosemary, argan, or coconut oil
- Rinsing with cold water to stimulate the scalp
- Consuming nutrient-rich foods such as green vegetables, eggs, and almonds
Note: Home remedies are temporary. Persistent or severe hair loss should always be evaluated by a specialist.
Solutions and Final Thoughts on Hair Loss
Hair loss can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and proper intervention.
- Identify the cause of excessive shedding with a dermatologist
- Create a personalized treatment plan (mesotherapy, PRP, nutrition)
- Continue follow-ups for long-term success
“The safest way to stop hair loss is with a personalized treatment plan.” – Dr. Ezgi Özkur
In short, whether it’s male-pattern baldness or seasonal hair shedding, proper diagnosis and consistent treatment can help restore healthy, strong hair