Hair loss is a common problem for both men and women. It can happen slowly or suddenly. Some people notice it early, while others don’t realize it until a lot of hair is gone. You might see more strands on your pillow or in the shower. Also, your hair may look thinner or patchy. These are signs you shouldn’t ignore because hair loss can also signal health issues.
Knowing about the symptoms of hair loss can help you start hair loss treatment as early as possible. In this blog, we will explain 12 symptoms of hair loss and where you can get the best hair loss treatment in Cape Town.
Table of Contents
Symptoms of Hair Loss
1. Thinning Hair
Thinning hair is one of the earliest and most common signs of hair loss. It often begins gradually and usually goes unnoticed. You may see less volume when styling or find your ponytail getting smaller. This thinning usually happens across the scalp or in specific areas like the crown. It’s usually linked to aging, genetics, or hormonal imbalances.
2. Receding Hairline
The second sign of hair loss is a receding hairline. A receding hairline is when the hair starts to move backward from the forehead. It usually forms an “M” shape as the temples become more visible. This symptom is most common in men and is a classic sign of male pattern baldness. It is important to note that the recession may worsen if not treated on time. In women, it might appear as more diffuse thinning near the front.
3. Sudden Hair Shedding
Sudden shedding, also known as telogen effluvium, can be alarming. You may notice large amounts of hair in your brush, on your pillow, or in the shower drain. This type of hair loss is often caused by stress, illness, surgery, or childbirth.
Unlike gradual hair thinning, the loss happens quickly and is usually temporary. However, if it persists, it could lead to noticeable bald spots.
4. Bald Patches
Bald patches often appear as smooth, round areas without hair. These can pop up anywhere on the scalp or even on the beard or eyebrows. This is commonly associated with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition. The patches may grow in size or multiply over time. Some people feel tingling or itching before a patch appears.
5. Itchy or Flaky Scalp
A scalp that feels itchy, irritated, or flaky could be a sign of an underlying issue contributing to hair loss. Specifically, conditions like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis can inflame the scalp and weaken hair follicles.
Moreover, scratching the area may cause further damage and lead to increased shedding. If not treated, inflammation can make hair loss worse. Proper scalp care and treatment are important to stop this cycle.
6. Wider Hair Part
When your usual hair part starts to look wider than before, it may be a sign of thinning hair. This change is often gradual and more noticeable in women. It can be linked to female pattern hair loss or hormonal changes like those during menopause.
In addition, the person might see more of your scalp when your hair is parted. It is important to consult a qualified medical doctor after the sign is noticed.
7. Slower Hair Growth
Hair that takes longer to grow than usual may indicate a problem. Healthy hair typically grows about half an inch per month, but that rate can slow due to poor nutrition, stress, or medical conditions.
You may notice that your haircuts last longer or that damaged areas don’t recover quickly. Also, slow growth can signal that hair is stuck in a resting phase. It’s often connected to internal health problems or deficiencies.
8. Excess Hair on Pillow or Shower Drain
Finding more hair than usual on your pillow or in your drain can be a clear sign of hair loss. While losing 50–100 strands a day is normal, larger amounts suggest a problem. This might be due to stress, hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues, or even medication side effects.
It’s important to monitor how frequently you’re seeing extra hair. If it continues daily, you may need to see a doctor or dermatologist.
9. Breakage and Weak Strands
Hair that easily breaks or splits may be weak and unhealthy. Instead of falling out from the root, it snaps mid-shaft due to dryness, over-processing, or harsh styling tools. Broken hairs make your hair appear thinner and less dense.
Over time, breakage can cause your ends to look frizzy and uneven. Deep conditioning and avoiding heat damage can help restore strength.
10. Pain or Tingling on Scalp
Some people feel a strange tingling, burning, or painful sensation before or during hair loss. This is called trichodynia and is often linked to inflammation around the follicles. It can occur in people with alopecia areata or those experiencing stress-related hair loss.
The discomfort might come and go or be constant. While not always a warning sign, it’s worth checking if it continues.
11. Eyebrow or Eyelash Thinning
Hair loss can extend beyond the scalp and affect eyebrows and eyelashes. You might notice sparse or patchy brows or fewer lashes over time. Aging, thyroid problems, or autoimmune conditions can cause this.
Losing facial hair affects appearance and may signal a deeper health issue. In many cases, treatment can help regrow the lost hair.
12. Change in Hair Texture
If your hair starts to feel dry, brittle, or limp, it might be a symptom of hair loss. Texture changes happen when hair follicles weaken or receive less nourishment. Hair may lose its shine and become more prone to breakage.
This often goes hand in hand with thinning or shedding. Watching for changes in how your hair feels can help you act early.
Hair Loss Treatment in Cape Town
If you are searching for effective hair loss treatment in Cape Town, Prime Health Centre is here to help. We specialize in treating all types of hair loss with personalized care. Our expert team uses advanced techniques to target the root cause of the problem.
Whether you are dealing with thinning hair, bald spots, or excessive shedding, we offer safe and proven solutions. At Prime Health Centre, your hair health is our priority.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss can be scary, but you don’t have to face it alone. Early signs like thinning, shedding, or bald patches should not be ignored. The sooner you notice the symptoms, the better your chances of stopping the hair loss and getting healthy hair again.
If you live in Cape Town, Prime Health Centre offers expert help and advanced treatments. Let our team guide you to the right solution. Don’t wait anymore and take the first step toward stronger, healthier hair today.
