Losing around 50–100 hairs a day is a normal part of the hair’s renewal cycle. If you notice clearly more shedding, thinning hair or more visible scalp, the cause should be investigated. Effective hair loss treatment begins with identifying that cause correctly.

The most common causes include:

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies: Low iron (ferritin), vitamin D, vitamin B12 or zinc can weaken the hair roots.
• Thyroid conditions: When the thyroid is underactive or overactive, as in Hashimoto’s, hair may thin and shed.
• Hormonal changes: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the period after giving birth and menopause can affect the hair cycle.
• Genetics: Male and female pattern hair loss are rooted in an inherited sensitivity.
• Stress and sudden changes: Intense stress, a serious illness, surgery or rapid weight loss can trigger widespread shedding a few months later.
• Medications and strict diets: Some medications, such as isotretinoin used for acne, and poor nutrition can also trigger shedding.

That is why blood tests are requested before treatment. Iron, ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and thyroid levels are checked, and hormone tests are added if needed.

The type of hair loss directly shapes which treatment is chosen:

• Male pattern (androgenetic) hair loss: Linked to genetics and hormones. In men, the hairline recedes and the crown thins.
• Female pattern hair loss: Women usually keep their hairline, with diffuse thinning on the top of the head and along the part.
• Telogen effluvium: Widespread shedding across the scalp after stress, childbirth, illness or a vitamin deficiency. It often settles once the cause is resolved.
• Alopecia areata: Hair loss in round, clearly defined patches. It needs a different approach; see alopecia areata treatment.

The type is determined at your consultation from a scalp examination and your history.

In women, hair loss often has more than one cause. Iron deficiency, thyroid problems and hormonal imbalances can occur in the same person, so treatment starts with blood tests and a hormone assessment.

With hormonal conditions such as PCOS or menopause, it is advisable to address the underlying issue with the relevant specialist alongside scalp treatments. Female pattern hair loss cannot be eliminated completely, but with regular treatment the aim is to slow shedding and strengthen the existing hair.

Common signs of hair loss in women include:

• A widening part: The scalp becomes more visible on the top of the head.
• A thinner ponytail: Your hair feels thinner when tied back than it used to.
• Finer strands: New hairs grow in thinner and shorter.

Starting treatment early helps protect the hair roots. Shedding after childbirth or stress is usually temporary. During this period, correcting any vitamin and mineral deficiencies and supporting the hair roots can help recovery.

Your plan is tailored to the cause, type and extent of your hair loss, and usually follows these steps:

1. Your history is taken and your scalp is examined.
2. Blood tests check vitamin, mineral, thyroid and, if needed, hormone levels.
3. Based on the results, scalp treatments and any necessary support are planned.

The main options at our clinic in Nişantaşı, Istanbul include:

• Correcting deficiencies: Iron, vitamin D or B12 deficiencies found in your tests are corrected on your doctor’s advice rather than with random supplements.
• Hair mesotherapy: Blends of vitamins, minerals and amino acids are delivered into the scalp with micro-injections. See hair mesotherapy.
• Hair PRP / GRP: Plasma rich in growth factors, prepared from your own blood, is applied to the scalp. See hair PRP / GRP.
• Hair strand care: For broken, damaged strands, hair botox may be considered as support alongside hair loss treatment.

These treatments are often combined; for example, mesotherapy and PRP may be alternated. Your doctor will also assess whether medical treatments such as topical scalp medications are needed. Other options, such as hair filler or hair cell therapy, may be considered for thinning areas. Where no follicles remain, a hair transplant may be discussed, although it does not stop the process behind the hair loss.

Hair responds slowly because of its growth cycle, so hair loss treatment calls for patience. Reduced shedding is usually noticed within the first 2–3 months. New hairs becoming visible and the hair looking fuller usually takes 3–6 months.

The main factors that affect results are:

• The cause: Shedding linked to a vitamin deficiency or stress tends to recover faster once the cause is resolved.
• Starting early: Treatment started while the hair roots are still active tends to respond better.
• Consistency: Not skipping sessions and continuing maintenance sessions both matter.

Genetic hair loss is an ongoing condition. If treatment is stopped, shedding may gradually increase again, so maintenance treatment at regular intervals is recommended.