Genetics: The most prevalent cause is hereditary conditions, like androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male-pattern or female-pattern baldness. This typically manifests gradually, resulting in predictable patterns such as receding hairlines in men and thinning crowns in women.

Hormonal Changes and Medical Conditions: Fluctuations in hormones due to events like pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders can trigger temporary or permanent hair loss. Additionally, medical conditions like alopecia areata, scalp infections such as ringworm, and the hair-pulling disorder trichotillomania can contribute to this phenomenon.

Medications and Supplements: Certain medications, including those prescribed for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart issues, gout, and hypertension, may list hair loss as a potential side effect.

Radiation Therapy: Treatment of the head area with radiation can alter hair growth patterns, potentially leading to changes in hair texture or density.

Stressful Events: Physical or emotional shocks can induce temporary hair thinning for many individuals. This type of hair loss usually becomes noticeable several months after the triggering event.

Hairstyles and Treatments: Excessive hairstyling, particularly styles that tightly pull on the hair like pigtails or cornrows, can result in traction alopecia. Moreover, treatments like hot-oil applications or permanent solutions may cause hair to fall out, with the potential for permanent loss if scarring occurs.