Why Is My Hair Not Growing: 7 Reasons Why | Jae Pak MD

September 16, 2024 - Reviewed by: Dr. Jae Pak, M.D.

Experiencing challenges with new hair growth can be very distressing. If you’ve been looking in the mirror and wondering why your hair isn’t growing like it used to, you’re not alone. It’s something that millions of people also experience on a daily basis.

At Jae Pak M.D. Medical, we’re committed to helping you find solutions to these challenges. Today, we will discuss some of the most common reasons your hair isn’t growing and a few things you can do to address it. We’ll also explore some of our hair restoration techniques so you’re fully aware of all your options.

What Is the Normal Hair Growth Cycle?

The life cycle of a hair strand is a fascinating process marked by four distinct phases. It’s important to understand how hair grows as there are many factors that can negatively influence this cycle.

Here is a quick breakdown of each phase:

The anagen phase, commonly known as the active growth phase, is the stage where your hair is growing. The overall length of this phase can range from between two and seven years and will largely determine the maximum length of your hair. The longer that this phase lasts, the longer your hair can potentially grow.

The catagen phase is a short transitional period that usually lasts between two and three weeks. During this time, the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the dermal papilla (the structure that supplies it with nutrients). This detachment signals the end of the active growth phase.

The telogen phase is commonly known as the resting phase, as the hair follicle will enter a state of suspended activity. This phase will typically last about three months, during which the hair doesn’t grow but remains attached to the follicle while a new hair begins to form.

The exogen phase is the final stage and results in the shedding of the hair. The old hair is released, the new hair takes its place, and the process begins anew. Each individual hair on your hair is on a different timeline, which is why it’s normal to lose about 50 to 100 hair per day when you’re combing it.

Why Is My Hair Not Growing?

Hair growth issues can be perplexing, but understanding the underlying reasons is the first step towards finding a solution.

Here are a few common reasons for why your hair may not be growing:

1. Aging

As we age, our hair naturally begins to thin, and the growth rate slows down. While this is a normal part of aging, maintaining a healthy hair care routine and a nutrient-rich diet can help preserve hair health and slow down the aging process of your hair.

2. Poor Nutrition

Your hair needs a variety of essential nutrients to grow healthily. Protein, biotin, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are all essential for maintaining healthy hair. A diet that’s deficient in these nutrients can hinder the growth of new hair. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can stimulate new hair growth and prevent excessive hair fall.

3. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones play a significant role in hair growth. Conditions that cause hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, menopause, and alopecia, can disrupt the hair growth cycle and result in hair loss or thinning hair. If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

4. Heat and Chemical Damage

Frequent heat styling and harsh chemical-based hair products like relaxers and bleach can cause significant damage to the hair shaft, follicles, and scalp. It can result in hair breakage, hair loss, and limited hair regrowth. Protecting your hair by using heat protectants, choosing lower heat settings, avoiding over-processing, and minimizing the use of chemical treatments can help maintain the health of your hair.

5. Over-Styling

Certain hairstyles, particularly those that pull on the hair like tight ponytails or braids, can cause hair breakage and loss. Ask your hairstylist to give you a more hair-friendly style, and start using gentle hair accessories that don’t pull or tangle to prevent this type of damage.

6. Genetics

The genetics you can inherit from your biological parents will significantly influence your hair. Not only will these genes determine the color, texture, and density of your natural hair, but they’ll also play a key role in the hair growth cycle as well. Hereditary conditions like androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) are very common in both men and women and can result in hair loss.

7. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as telogen effluvium, can lead to hair loss. If you’re experiencing significant hair fall, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist for a proper medical diagnosis. Once the underlying condition is treated, then normal hair growth often resumes.

How Can I Support Hair Growth?

Promoting healthy hair growth is a multifaceted approach that involves taking several steps and making a few lifestyle changes.

Here are a few effective tips that can help stimulate hair growth and maintain its health:

Maintain a Balanced Diet: Incorporate foods rich in essential nutrients like protein, biotin, zinc, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E into your diet. These nutrients are important for hair health and growth.
Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water helps to prevent dry hair that’s easily damaged and contributes to healthier and stronger hair.
Regular Scalp Massages: Massaging your scalp regularly can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and prevent buildup on the scalp, both of which can promote growth.
Use Hair Masks: Regular use of hair masks featuring natural oils like coconut or argan oil can nourish and strengthen your hair.
Avoid Heat and Chemical Damage: Minimize the use of heat styling tools and harsh chemical treatments. If necessary, always use a heat protectant.
Choose Hair-Friendly Styles: Avoid hairstyles that pull on the hair and opt for loose styles that don’t cause tension in the hair follicles.
Regular Trims: Getting regular trims can help prevent split ends and breakage, helping to promote healthier hair growth.
Use Gentle Hair Products: Choose shampoos, conditioners, and other hair products that are free from harsh chemicals. Look for products that are specifically designed to promote hair growth, and avoid using very hot water on your scalp.

How Can Hair Restoration Help?

A lack of hair growth is usually an indicator that hair loss is coming soon. Fortunately, hair restoration procedures can provide a permanent solution to hair loss and offer hope for those who have struggled with thinning hair or baldness.

At Jae Pak M.D. Medical, Dr. Jae Pak and his team of experts specialize in several advanced hair restoration techniques:

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): This procedure involves removing a strip of skin from the back of the scalp, from which individual hair follicles are extracted and transplanted to the balding areas. The results are natural-looking as the transplanted hair behaves just like the rest of your hair.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): In this procedure, individual hair follicles are extracted from the donor area (usually the back of the scalp) and transplanted to the balding or thinning areas. This technique is less invasive than FUT and leaves no linear scar.
Long Hair FUE Transplant: Long Hair FUE is when small lines are shaved underneath longer hair so the shaved areas are not visible.
Scalp MicroPigmentation: This is a non-surgical procedure that uses detailed micro-needles to deposit pigment into the scalp. The result creates the appearance of tiny hair follicles that help thicken and restore the look of fuller hair.
Microneedling With Protein Rich Support: This procedure involves creating microchannels in the scalp that can absorb growth factors more effectively. It’s often combined with other treatments to enhance their effectiveness.

Each of these techniques offers a unique approach to addressing hair loss, and the best one for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances. We’re committed to helping you find the best solution for your hair restoration journey. Your hair is our canvas, and we’re here to help you create the masterpiece you deserve.

Final Thoughts on Hair Growth Challenges

Understanding the reasons behind hair growth challenges is the first step toward finding a solution. In some cases, it could be as simple as changing your preferred hairstyle or making a few dietary changes. In other cases, it may take a more comprehensive approach to promote a more healthy hair growth cycle.

The good news is that you have plenty of options should your efforts prove unsuccessful. At Jae Pak M.D. Medical, we offer a wide variety of hair restoration techniques that can be specifically tailored to meet your needs.

If you’re facing persistent hair growth issues, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Jae Pak today for personalized advice and treatment options.

Sources:

Integrative and Mechanistic Approach to the Hair Growth Cycle and Hair Loss | PMC

The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review | PMC

Your Guide To Aging, Thinning Hair: 5 Simple Tips | Cleveland Clinic

Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles | PMC

Effects of Chemical Straighteners on the Hair Shaft and Scalp | PMC

Hairstyles That Pull Can Lead to Hair Loss | American Academy of Dermatology

Genetic Hair Disorders: A Review | PMC

Telogen Effluvium: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Regrowth | Cleveland Clinic