What can cause hair and eyebrow loss in a male aged 23?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 23-year-old male who has been experiencing hair loss, including the loss of eyebrow hair, for the past four to five months. Despite taking biotin tablets and Follihair tablets for two months, there has been no noticeable improvement. There is no previous history of any similar medical complaint. What could be the possible causes, and what should I do next?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for sharing your experience. Hair fall affecting both the scalp and eyebrows over several months can be distressing. Since you have already taken biotin (vitamin B7) and Follihair supplements (containing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and botanical extracts) for two months without any noticeable improvement, it is essential to investigate further to identify any underlying causes.

One possible cause is alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition characterized by patchy hair loss, which can occur not only on the scalp but also on the eyebrows and other body parts. Nutritional deficiencies may also be involved, particularly low levels of iron, zinc, or vitamin D, even if you are currently taking supplements. Additionally, thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism are well-known contributors to hair loss and should be evaluated.

Other potential triggers include physical or emotional stress, which can cause temporary hair shedding, which is known as telogen effluvium. Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections can also damage hair follicles, especially around the eyebrows. Furthermore, systemic autoimmune conditions, such as lupus, may present with progressive hair loss and require comprehensive evaluation.

The possible next steps include:

To identify the root cause, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or a trichologist for a thorough clinical assessment. Laboratory tests may be necessary and can include thyroid function tests (such as TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)and Free T4), iron studies (especially serum ferritin), vitamin D and zinc levels, a complete blood count, and autoimmune markers if warranted by the clinical findings.
While awaiting a diagnosis and treatment plan, it is important to avoid harsh hair products, eyebrow plucking, or any form of over-grooming that might worsen the condition. Follow your specialist’s guidance closely, including the use of any prescribed medications or topical treatments.

Lastly, it is crucial to understand that hair regrowth is a gradual process. Even after initiating the correct treatment, visible improvement may take three to six months. Early diagnosis and prompt management significantly improve the likelihood of successful hair restoration.

I hope this information has been helpful.