The onset of alopecia (baldness) is very gradual. As the hair follicles begin to weaken, the loss-replacement process continues. However, the new replacement hairs are much finer in diameter and lighter in color than the normal hair previously lost. These hairs, in turn, are replaced by even finer and lighter hairs until all that remains are the almost invisible vellous hairs which represent the final stage before baldness.

There are several causes of hair loss which account for virtually all baldness. Local and external problems are the easiest to control before the onset of baldness. These causes vary including hygienic, traumatic, infectious or medicinal. Among hygienic causes are dandruff, scaling, severe itching and scalp tenderness. In these cases time becomes very important because the conditions must be recognized and treated in time before the hair follicles are permanently disabled. Genetic factors vary because an individual does not inherit baldness as such, but rather a predisposition to a weak follicular structure. This predisposition may come from either the maternal or paternal side of the family. General or acute diseases may influence the scalp by changing its structure and interfering with normal function. Certain internal medications may change the normal function of the follicular structure which, as a result, may lead to excessive hair loss.

How Your Hair Grows
The growth of the hair depends mainly on the circulatory system as fluids pass through the dermal papilla for two purposes: (1) to supply the hair structure with nourishment; and (2) to remove cellular wastes and other unwanted products. A strong circulatory system is vital since the temporal and posterior branches of the carotid artery bring nutrients and amino acids to the hair follicles. A build-up of cellular waste seems to adversely impact the work of the dermal papilla. Other contributing factors for normal hair growth are the proper care of your hair and scalp as well as a balanced and nutritional diet.

Hair growth is achieved through cell division (mitosis) of the matrix cells of the hair bulb in the anagen growing cycle of follicular development. Cell mass increases and forces the hair cells to move into the upper bulb. They harden or cornify to join other similar cells. The mitotic activity of the cells and the synthesis of protein within the matrix goes on as long as the hair is growing. However, growth stops every one to six years and brings the onset of the catagen transition cycle. The bulb will begin to degenerate and all mitotic activity stops. Cells then go into the telogen resting cycle for about three months. Fortunately, the dormant follicle, unless problems are present, will then burst into anagen growing activity once again and the overall production of hair resumes.