Hair Loss Explained: 6 Main Causes of Thinning Hair and Proven Ways to Prevent It

Hair thinning can be a distressing experience for anyone, but understanding the root causes can help you take control of your hair health. If you’ve noticed more hair in your brush, on your pillow, or just less volume overall, you’re not alone. Hair loss is a common issue affecting millions of people, but the good news is, it can often be managed or even prevented with the right approach.

In this blog, we'll break down the common causes of hair loss, who is most at risk, and how you can prevent it.

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, or alopecia, is the gradual reduction of hair density, which can lead to thinning or noticeable bald patches. Hair loss can occur at different stages of life, affecting both men and women. It’s important to understand that some shedding (50-100 hairs a day) is completely normal, but if you’re seeing significant changes in volume or thickness, it might indicate a deeper issue.

Why is Hair Loss Caused?

Hair grows in cycles, consisting of a growth phase, a rest phase, and a shedding phase. When this cycle is disrupted or the growth phase becomes shorter, hair may fall out prematurely or fail to grow back as it should. The underlying causes of this disruption can vary, from genetics to lifestyle factors.

Factors that Contribute to Hair Loss

1. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a significant role in regulating the hair growth cycle. Changes during pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause, or the use of hormonal medications (like birth control) can lead to temporary or long-term hair thinning. This is because imbalances in estrogen and progesterone can trigger hair to fall out or stop growing altogether.

2. Stress
Chronic stress is a major contributor to hair loss, triggering conditions like telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase. Stress can also lead to scalp inflammation, making it difficult for hair to grow back effectively.

3. Dietary Deficiencies
If your diet is lacking essential nutrients like iron, zinc, vitamin D, or biotin, your hair health can take a hit. Hair needs a balanced supply of nutrients to maintain its strength and vitality, so deficiencies in your diet can lead to thinning.

4. Genetics
If hair loss runs in your family, you might experience androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary form of hair thinning that often manifests as a gradual reduction in hair density. This condition affects both men and women but tends to follow different patterns (like receding hairlines or thinning at the crown).

5. Excessive Styling
Overuse of heat tools, frequent chemical treatments, or tight hairstyles can lead to hair breakage and thinning. Damaging the hair shaft or follicles through excessive styling prevents healthy growth and weakens existing strands.

6. Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions such as thyroid imbalances, autoimmune diseases (like alopecia areata), or scalp infections can contribute to hair loss. In these cases, medical treatment is required alongside hair care to effectively address the problem.

Who is most at risk of Hair Loss?

Anyone can experience hair thinning, but certain groups are more vulnerable, including:

• Women going through hormonal changes (pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause)
• People with a family history of hair loss
• Individuals experiencing chronic stress
• Those with nutrient deficiencies due to poor diet or restrictive eating habits
• People who frequently use heat styling tools or chemical treatments
• Individuals with certain medical conditions, like thyroid issues or autoimmune diseases

How Can I Prevent Hair Loss?

While some causes of hair loss are out of our control, many can be managed with lifestyle changes and the right hair care routine. Here are a few ways to help prevent hair thinning:

1. Nourish Your Scalp
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Incorporate scalp massages into your routine to stimulate blood flow and promote growth. You can use a nourishing serum like Kérastase Genesis Anti Hair-Fall Fortifying Serum, which helps to strengthen the hair fibers and reduce breakage.

2. Choose Products That Encourage Growth & Strength
Using targeted products can help prevent thinning by strengthening the hair and encouraging growth. Kérastase Genesis Bain is designed to improve weakened hair, making it perfect for those experiencing thinning or hair fall due to genetics or hormonal changes. 

For those looking for a natural solution, Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced Revitalizing Scalp Serum is an excellent option. Made from plant-based ingredients, this product energises and rejuvenates the scalp, promoting thicker, fuller hair.

It's also important to remember that thinning hair doesn't always mean just scalp issues - your hair may also be breaking due to it being in a weakened state. Using products designed to strengthen and repair hair is a must. One of our most requested products for this is a leave in treatment, with the Cheveux Night Serum taking the cake as the best option for lightweight hydration and strength.

3. Balance Your Diet
Make sure your diet includes a wide range of vitamins and minerals to support healthy hair growth. Foods rich in iron (spinach, lentils), biotin (eggs, nuts), and vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified dairy) can make a noticeable difference in your hair's strength and resilience.

4. Minimize Heat and Chemical Styling
Give your hair a break from heat styling tools, tight hairstyles, and harsh chemical treatments. If you need to style, always use a heat protectant, like the De Lorenzo Defence Extinguish Thermal Protection Spray, and incorporate hydrating treatments like the Cheveux Hair Mask to maintain moisture and prevent damage.

5. Stay Consistent with Your Hair Care Routine
Consistency is key when dealing with hair thinning. Commit to using your products regularly and giving them time to work. Often, hair loss treatments require several months before you see visible results.


Hair loss can be challenging to navigate, but knowing the causes and how to address them can make a big difference in your hair's health. Whether the culprit is hormonal changes, stress, or genetics, there are steps you can take to slow down or even reverse the thinning process.

At Charli & Kate, we understand the importance of a tailored approach to hair care. That’s why we offer a range of products, from Kerastase Genesis to Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced, designed to support you on your hair health journey. Explore our selection today and find the perfect solution for your needs.