Gone are the days when baldness was something primarily associated with ageing. Today, more people are experiencing hair loss earlier in life, even as young as their 20s.

While genetics and hormones are often key factors, certain lifestyle habits can accelerate hair loss. If you’re noticing signs of thinning hair, it might be time to reassess some of these everyday practices that could be contributing to premature baldness.

1. Poor Diet and Nutritional Deficiencies

Your hair's health is heavily influenced by what you eat. A diet lacking essential nutrients—such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins—can weaken hair follicles, making them more prone to falling out. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, biotin, and zinc, for instance, are known to contribute to hair loss.

 Make sure your diet is rich in nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds. You might also consider supplements if you’re lacking key vitamins or minerals.

2. Excessive Stress

Chronic stress can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase of the hair growth cycle. Emotional, mental, or physical stress can accelerate hair loss, making it more difficult for your hair to regenerate.  Find healthy ways to manage stress, regular exercise, or relaxation techniques. Reducing stress can help prevent further hair loss.

3. Overuse of Heat and Chemical Treatments

Frequent use of heat styling tools (like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers) and harsh chemical treatments (such as hair dyes, relaxers, and perms) can weaken the hair shaft and damage hair follicles.

Over time, this can lead to hair thinning and eventually baldness. Limit the use of heat and chemical treatments, and always use heat-protectant products. 

4. Tight Hairstyles and Traction Alopecia

Wearing tight hairstyles, such as ponytails, braids, or buns, can cause a condition called traction alopecia. This occurs when the hair is pulled too tightly over a long period, damaging the hair follicles and leading to permanent hair loss in some areas.

Give your scalp and hair a break by wearing looser styles, and avoid using rubber bands or hair ties that cause breakage.

5. Smoking

Smoking restricts blood flow, including to your scalp. This lack of proper circulation can starve hair follicles of the oxygen and nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy hair.

Over time, smoking can accelerate the ageing of hair follicles and increase your chances of going bald. Quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but can also improve blood circulation to your scalp.

6. Lack of Sleep

Sleep is essential for the body’s repair and regeneration processes, including hair growth. A lack of adequate rest can interfere with hair health by disrupting the hormones that regulate hair growth and repair. Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule with 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to give your hair follicles the time they need to regenerate.

7. Neglecting Scalp Health

Your scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Neglecting proper scalp care—whether through infrequent washing, buildup of oils, or dandruff—can clog hair follicles and weaken hair roots, leading to shedding and potential baldness.

Maintaining good scalp hygiene by exfoliating the scalp and using treatments to address issues like dandruff or excess oil can also promote healthier hair growth.

While some factors that contribute to baldness are beyond our control, such as genetics and hormonal changes, many lifestyle habits can accelerate hair loss. By making simple changes, to the factors within your control, you can protect your hair and reduce your chances of going bald prematurely.