May
Suffering from hair loss? You’re not alone. Over 15.4 million people across the UK are currently experiencing hair loss in some form, whether this is from hereditary pattern baldness, alopecia or chemotherapy.
Hair loss can be a distressing experience, impacting both men and women of all ages. It can affect self-esteem and social interactions, making it more than a physical issue.
At Click2Pharmacy, we focus on transparent discussions about health concerns. We have reviewed the most recent data on hair loss trends and treatment options in the United Kingdom. Our insights draw on information from Google Trends and various hair loss studies.
Our Findings
- Searches for hair loss are rising, indicating increased hair loss in the UK.
- Women are just as likely to experience hair loss as they get older than men.
- Those of nonwhite ethnicity are more likely to experience thinning hair or hair loss.
- Hair loss, significantly earlier on in life, can affect mental health and self-confidence.
- People are more interested in treating hair loss rather than understanding the causes.
Prevalence of Hair Loss
Hair loss is a part of everyday life, as the average person will lose 50 – 100 hairs daily from their head and body. While this level of hair shedding is considered normal, noticeable hair loss has become more common in the UK.
The Google Trends graph of searches from 2004 to 2024 shows interest in hair loss treatment is rising. The reasons behind this rising prevalence are multifaceted, with researchers pointing to factors like changing lifestyles, environmental impacts, and the role of certain medical conditions. But one thing is clear—hair loss is becoming increasingly common, affecting a substantial portion of the UK population.
What are the leading causes of hair loss?
Pattern Baldness
One of the most common types of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. It is a hereditary condition caused by sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone, which shrinks hair follicles and shortens the hair growth cycle. This type of hair loss affects 30-50% of men by age 50 and 40% of women by age 50.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata (AA), which affects one in every 500 people in the UK, is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp, face, and other areas of the body. It occurs when the immune system attacks the follicles, leading to hair loss.
Telogen Effluvium
This is a type of temporary hair loss where many follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase, leading to excessive shedding. It can be triggered by various factors, such as:
- Stress
- An illness or major surgery
- Pregnancy and postpartum hormonal changes
- Chemotherapy and cancer treatment
- Sudden weight loss
- Hormonal imbalances
- Nutritional deficiencies
Does age affect hair loss?
While hair loss was once considered a condition primarily affecting older individuals, it is also becoming increasingly common among younger age groups. A study found that new‐onset AA peaks at age 25–29 years. However, it could be that people are becoming more aware and self-conscious of their appearance.
Hair loss can start as early as the late teens or early 20s, with the likelihood increasing as people age. By age 35, 66% of men experience significant hair thinning. The prevalence of hair loss increases with age, affecting 85% of men and 50% of women in their lifetime. The chances of experiencing hair thinning or baldness increase significantly after a certain age due to various factors, including hormonal changes and the natural ageing process.
Does ethnicity affect hair loss?
Ethnicity can affect someone’s susceptibility to hair loss due to their average hair density. White Europeans have more hair follicles than those with African or Asian hair, which means they have less to lose.
Studies have found that people of nonwhite ethnicity were more likely to present with AA, especially those of Asian ethnicity. The higher prevalence of AA among nonwhite ethnicities highlights the impact of environmental factors such as social deprivation and urban living conditions. These factors may contribute to stress and lifestyle changes that exacerbate hair loss.
Traction alopecia, caused by hairstyles that put stress on the hair and scalp, is a common form of hair loss, especially among people of African and Afro-Caribbean descent, due to damaging style techniques for longer, thicker hair.
The difference in hair follicle density among ethnic groups suggests that White Europeans may be less visibly affected by hair loss compared to Asians and Africans, as they start with a higher number of follicles. However, non-genetic factors also play a significant role.
Does where you live affect hair loss?
Using an analysis of the search query ‘hair loss’ from Google Trends, we found that you are more likely to search this term if you live in Northern Ireland than in any other country in the UK, followed by Wales, England, and Scotland.
This trend suggests that people in Northern Ireland may be more concerned about hair loss or more proactive in seeking information and solutions. Several factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental stressors, or cultural attitudes towards hair loss, could influence the higher search volume.
Does gender affect hair loss?
Approximately 6.5 million men and 8 million women in the UK are currently affected by hair loss, which shows signs of significantly impacting both genders. However, substantially more men suffer from hair loss, mainly hereditary hair loss, than women.
Male Hair Loss
Hair loss in men is considered a part of life, and a significant number of men suffer from it as they get older. For men, male pattern baldness is by far the most common cause, accounting for around 95% of cases. This hereditary condition follows a classic pattern of receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
Male pattern baldness is influenced by genetic factors and the presence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. High levels of DHT can shrink hair follicles, leading to shorter, finer hairs and, eventually, the cessation of hair growth.
Female Hair Loss
Less than half of women reach the age of 80 with a full head of hair. Female pattern hair loss, while less discussed, is still significant. It typically presents as a general thinning of hair across the scalp rather than the bald spots seen in men. This type of hair loss can begin at any time after puberty, but it is most common after menopause, suggesting a hormonal component.
The higher number of men experiencing hair loss, mainly male pattern baldness, highlights a strong genetic component. However, the substantial number of women affected underscores the importance of addressing female hair loss, which can often be overlooked. The psychosocial impacts, including lowered self-esteem and confidence, are profound for both genders, making it important to raise awareness and provide support for all those affected.
Hair Loss and Emotional Wellbeing
The impact of hair loss extends beyond the physical aspect, as it can also significantly affect an individual’s emotional well-being. Hair loss can profoundly impact self-esteem, with many individuals feeling self-conscious or stressed about their appearance and refusing to leave the house without wearing a hat.
One reason behind the increasing prevalence of hair loss could be the growing stress levels among people in the UK. Modern life’s fast-paced and demanding nature, coupled with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis, has contributed to heightened stress levels, which can harm hair health.
In addition to the stress factor, men, in particular, may feel self-conscious or stressed about their hair loss, as it can be perceived as a sign of ageing or feel it impacts their appearance. This can lead to a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.
The NHS recommend speaking to your GP if you feel that your hair loss is causing you emotional distress, who may be able to provide some counselling. They also recommend talking to others in the same position or joining support groups like Alopecia UK.
Hair Loss Treatments
There are various ways to prevent and treat hair loss, including options to promote hair regrowth. As this condition becomes more common, many more treatments for hair loss sufferers are available on the market.
Minoxidil
Over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil are popular, especially among younger men. Brands like Regaine for Men and Regaine for Women offer minoxidil solutions that can be applied directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss. Minoxidil increases blood flow to the follicles, enhances their size, and prolongs the hair’s growth phase.
Finasteride
Prescription treatments like Finasteride are a common choice for men. Finasteride reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the scalp, a hormone that causes follicles to shrink. Other oral medications, such as Propecia and Avodart, also inhibit DHT production. These treatments can help to halt hair loss and, in some cases, encourage regrowth.
Shampoo
Special shampoos for hair loss, like Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo, are designed to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth. These shampoos often contain caffeine, biotin, and saw palmetto, which can strengthen hair and reduce hair loss. Using these shampoos regularly can support other treatments and improve overall scalp health.
Other Hair Loss Treatments
There are also many non-medication-based treatments for hair loss, some of which include:
- Hair Transplant Surgery: Hair transplant surgery involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body (usually the back or sides of the scalp) to the balding areas. This procedure can provide a permanent solution to hair loss with natural results.
- Vitamins: Certain vitamins and supplements can promote healthier hair growth. Vitamins like biotin, vitamin D, and iron are essential for maintaining strong, healthy hair.
- Change of diet: A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can significantly impact hair health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseed, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, can promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.
- Derma roller: A derma roller is a handheld device with tiny needles that create micro-injuries on the scalp. This process, known as microneedling, can stimulate collagen production and enhance the absorption of topical treatments.
- Changing hairstyle: Adopting hairstyles that minimise tension and stress on the hair can help prevent traction alopecia. Opting for looser styles, avoiding excessive use of heat and chemicals, and giving the hair regular breaks from styling can also reduce hair damage and loss.
Hair Loss Search Trends
Most people searching about hair loss are focused on treatments rather than causes. This indicates that individuals are more interested in finding solutions than in understanding why they are losing hair. The priority on treatments suggests that hair loss is causing significant distress, prompting immediate action. People might feel overwhelmed by the various potential causes, such as genetics, stress, or health conditions, and prefer to focus their energy on finding remedies. This trend shows a general desire for quick fixes and effective management strategies to restore hair and confidence.
There’s been a notable rise in searches for hair restoration surgery. This suggests a growing interest in more permanent and effective solutions, possibly due to dissatisfaction with other treatments or considering their hair loss ‘too far gone’ and not wanting to accept complete baldness. The increase in these searches may reflect higher awareness and acceptance of surgical options, driven by advances in medical technology and successful outcomes shared by public figures. People are likely seeking more definitive results than temporary or less effective treatments. The decision to consider surgery often comes after trying various other methods without satisfactory results, indicating a serious commitment to addressing hair loss.
Searches for non-medical interventions like oils, vitamins, and supplements are commonly searched for alternative treatments for hair loss. This trend shows that people are exploring what other treatments are available, hoping for a non-surgical way to combat hair loss. The popularity of these searches suggests a preference for natural or less invasive options, likely driven by the desire to avoid potential side effects associated with medical treatments or surgery.
More Hair Loss Statistics
- Wearing hats does not cause hair loss.
- Redheads have approximately 90,000 hairs, while blondes possess roughly 150,000 hairs on average.
- Baldness does not increase levels of testosterone in the body.
- Someone must lose more than 50% of their hair for hair loss to be noticeable to the human eye.
