1. Genetics: Hereditary conditions like male-pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and female-pattern hair thinning are the most common causes of hair loss.
2. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts related to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid imbalances, or conditions like PCOS can lead to hair thinning or shedding.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, biotin, or zinc can impair hair growth and lead to hair loss.
4. Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger a temporary condition called telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the resting phase and sheds.
5. Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, birth control pills, and antidepressants, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
6. Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like alopecia areata, where the immune system attacks hair follicles, and other autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to hair loss.
7. Infections: Fungal infections, such as ringworm, and scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis can cause hair to fall out.
8. Hairstyles and Treatments: Tight hairstyles (e.g., ponytails or braids) or frequent use of heat styling tools and harsh chemical treatments can weaken hair and contribute to breakage or thinning.
9. Age: As people age, hair growth naturally slows down, and hair becomes thinner, leading to gradual hair loss.
10. Environmental Factors: Pollution, exposure to toxins, and hard water can damage hair and cause it to weaken or shed prematurely.

If hair loss is noticeable or persistent, consulting a healthcare professional is important to identify the underlying cause and find an appropriate treatment.