British newspaper website The Telegraph has reported that in some individuals hair loss might be attributed to environmental factors such as pollution. The story examines a recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, which concludes that both internal factors, such as genes, and external factors in the environment can cause or contribute to hair loss.
Researchers from the University of London were able to connect air pollution and smoking to balding trends. They found that such pollutants actually inhibit the very mechanisms that make hair. Their findings have left many hopeful that new and more effective treatments for hair loss can be developed based on this information.
According to the article “Pollution sends men bald,” by Jasper Copping, “Baldness is known to be hereditary, but the new research suggests that environmental factors could exacerbate hair loss.” The article goes on to explain that hair loss sufferers may be able to alleviate their symptoms by not smoking and by living in areas with cleaner air.
The study was conducted by removing hair follicles from men who were experiencing hair loss. The follicles were then studied in labs. Researchers found that oxidative stress was interrupting normal hair growth. They concluded that hair loss is worsened by both air pollution and the effects of smoking.
There will be further research and tests to identify additional details about how environmental factors affect hair growth and baldness. Also, the research team will be looking for ways to grow hair in different types of environments.
The hope is that these new findings will help medical professionals better treat patients who are suffering from hair loss.
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