Is it normal for a 14-year-old boy to lose hair?

May 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wan

Introduction

A 14-year-old boy experiencing hair loss: if the number of fallen hairs is relatively small, not exceeding 100 strands per day, it may be normal and usually does not require special treatment. However, if hair loss is excessive, it could be caused by factors such as malnutrition or seborrheic dermatitis, which is generally considered abnormal. It is recommended to promptly visit a hospital for evaluation, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment accordingly.

In general, hair loss in 14-year-old boys may be normal if the amount of hair shed is small; however, excessive hair loss may indicate an underlying problem, possibly caused by factors such as malnutrition or seborrheic dermatitis. The details are as follows:

I. Normal

If a 14-year-old boy sheds only a small amount of hair—fewer than 100 hairs per day—this is typically considered a normal physiological process due to natural metabolism and generally does not require special treatment. Daily habits should include adequate rest, avoiding staying up late, and maintaining a balanced diet to ensure sufficient nutrition.

II. Abnormal

1. Malnutrition

Poor eating habits such as picky eating or food selectivity in boys may lead to malnutrition, resulting in insufficient nutrient supply for healthy hair growth and consequently causing hair loss. Boys should develop good dietary habits and engage in appropriate physical activity regularly.

2. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is often associated with factors such as Malassezia infection and abnormal sebum production. Excessive sebum accumulation around hair follicles may impair normal follicular function, leading to symptoms including hair loss, characteristic red patches, and itching. Boys may take medications such as vitamin B2 tablets or vitamin B6 tablets under medical guidance.

In addition, this symptom could also be caused by alopecia areata. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.

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Hair falls out easily when pulled

Hair falling out easily when pulled may be caused by seborrheic dermatitis, scalp fungal infection, lifestyle factors, or other reasons. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation and complete necessary examinations if hair shedding occurs frequently and symptoms repeatedly worsen, so as to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance as early as possible. In daily life, one should pay more attention to preventive measures to effectively avoid the development of related conditions.

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Will hair grow back after a bump on the head causes hair loss?

Hair loss caused by a bump on the head due to minor follicle damage in the scalp area will gradually improve as the injury heals and the hair follicles recover, allowing hair to regrow slowly. If trauma to the head leads to alopecia areata, immunosuppressants may be taken as directed by a physician to promote hair regrowth. However, if the injury is severe and damages the deeper layers of the scalp, causing follicular atrophy, it may result in permanent hair loss.

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Scalp is not itchy but hair is falling out

In general, hair loss without scalp itching may be caused by long-term sleep deprivation, stress and anxiety, malnutrition, androgenetic alopecia, or endocrine disorders, and targeted treatments are required. It is recommended to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Prolonged lack of sleep can disrupt the body's circadian rhythm, affecting hormone secretion and normal physiological cycles.