BIO-Hair DNA Test from The BioHacking Clinic

Androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, is the most common type and affects both men and women, leading to gradual thinning and receding hairlines. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden patchy hair loss on the scalp or body. Traction alopecia results from prolonged tension on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles, leading to localised thinning. Telogen effluvium occurs when stress or illness causes more hair than usual to enter the shedding phase, resulting in diffuse thinning across the scalp. Each type of alopecia, or thinning hair has different causes and patterns of hair loss, occurring due to various factors, including ageing, hormonal changes, stress, and lifestyle habits. For some, thinning hair or hair loss is temporary, while others may experience a more permanent and progressive concern. The emotional impact of hair loss can be significant, leading to feelings of self-consciousness, reduced confidence, and social anxiety, which may impact a person’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. People affected by thinning hair or hair loss often try different treatments, such as medications, hair restoration procedures, or lifestyle changes, to manage or reverse the condition.

Genetics plays a major role in hair loss, especially in common conditions like androgenetic alopecia, or male and female pattern baldness. Genes inherited from both parents can determine whether and when a person will experience hair loss. Your genes will affect androgen receptor sensitivity, making hair follicles more susceptible to shrinking under the influence of hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT), leading to thinning. Variants in other genes also influence hair density and texture. Understanding the genetic predisposition to hair loss can help predict its likelihood and guide personalised treatments, such as targeted medications or hair care practices that slow down or prevent further thinning.