Some of us may be more prone to hormonal imbalances, as well as the ability to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which are the main causes of hair loss. These are usually hereditary and can be from either the paternal or maternal side of the family.

Hair is made up of a type of protein called keratin and when there is a protein deficiency in your diet, it makes hair brittle and prone to breakage. It also leads to weaker hair strands that fall prematurely.

Certain autoimmune illnesses like thyroid, can cause an excess or low secretion of hormones. When not treated in time, hair loss can result as a complication where antibodies attack its own cells and tissues (including hair).

Medication and some birth control pills can cause side effects like hair loss, especially when they mess with hormones.

During pregnancy, there is a rise in estrogen which may trigger hair growth for some moms-to-be. Hormones usually normalise after delivery and those that experience fuller hair might suddenly have their hair falling out all at once. This is usually temporary and will return to normal after a few weeks.

Consuming too much vitamin A has been linked to hair loss, along with loss of appetite, skin problems, headache, fatigue and many other problems. The recommended daily dosage is 5,000 International Units (IU), so do check the vitamin A content in your supplements to ensure that you’re not taking too much.

Dieting and starving yourself to lose weight deprives your body of nutrients needed to stay healthy. Deficiencies in biotin, iron, protein and zinc can reduce amino acid and vitamin absorption which are required for healthy hair growth.

Stress trigger testosterone production, which converts to DHT and affect normal hair growth cycle. It can also affect nutrient absorption by the hair follicles, leading to weaker hair.