Hair loss and balding is a condition that occurs in roughly 40 percent of the population in one form or another. It is most prevalent in men, but does occur in women. We just do not see it due to wigs and the fact that women are more likely to seek medical help for this condition. It could be as simple as a receding hairline, or just thinning more than usual. This can be treated. The treatments depend upon the cause and progression of the condition.

Hair loss can actually occur due to a variety of causes. Stress is actually a big factor. Large amounts of stress can actually result in the bodies increased production of stress related hormones. Some of these hormones are closely related to testosterone and will similarly cause hair loss. Recent surgery or trauma can also result in a similar loss of hair. Some medicines have side effects resulting in similar conditions. You should discuss any medicine or over the counter product with your doctor about undesirable side effects.

A large portion of hair loss is genetic. Folklore states that the mothers side of the family will determine this and the potential for balding. It is thought that if the mothers father had exhibited any potentail for balding than the kids would too. Genetic hair loss is largely untreatable and is usually treated with hair follicle grafts. We see infomercials for these natural grafts and their techniques on late night TV every day. This is a painful surgery, but the results say it is highly effective and also expensive.

Most treatment for hair loss begins with scalp treatments like Minoxidil. If it is determined that there is a fungal infection or other infection resulting in this condition, then a antifungal cream and lotion are usually prescribed. Fungal infections can result in loss of hair and are easily treated and the condition reversed.

Women sometimes experience loss of hair through traction commonly referred to as alopecia. According to the American Medical Association:

If you wear pigtails or cornrows or use tight hair rollers, the pull on your hair can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. If the pulling is stopped before scarring of the scalp develops, your hair will grow back normally. However, scarring can cause permanent loss of hair.

These are the major forms of hair loss and their respective treatments from creams and lotions to surgical hair grafting. It all depends on the cause and the severity of the condition. Most forms can be treated and some reversed without the need for expensive surgery.