Guides
Hair loss: causes and when to see a doctor
Losing some hair every day is normal. The question is when to worry. Here is what the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) say.
Updated 16 October 2026
How many hairs do we lose a day?
Between 50 and 100 a day, often without noticing.
That is not a sign of hair loss. A receding hairline, a bald spot or overall thinning, on the other hand, are.
Possible causes
Some hair loss is permanent, such as male and female pattern baldness, which usually runs in the family. Other types may be temporary: an illness, stress, cancer treatment, weight loss or iron deficiency.
A hairstyle that is too tight, or some hair care, can also play a part.
When to see a doctor
As soon as hair loss worries you. The NHS advises seeing a doctor first to find out the cause, before going to a commercial hair clinic.
What about treatments?
No treatment is 100% effective. For male pattern baldness, the main treatments are finasteride and minoxidil: they do not work for everyone and only work for as long as they are used. Women should not use finasteride. Talk to your doctor.
Where does hair care fit in?
A shampoo, a serum or a lotion is cosmetic care: it supports a routine, it does not replace medical advice. The Folliactiv range includes a daily shampoo, a serum spray and a scalp lotion. No cosmetic care can guarantee a result.
Sources
- NHS: “Hair loss” (page last reviewed January 2024)
- American Academy of Dermatology: “Do you have hair loss or hair shedding?”
- American Academy of Dermatology: “Hair loss: Overview”
This page is for information only. It does not replace advice from a doctor or your surgeon.
