QUESTION: In recent years, I've lost a significant amount of my blonde (now with some gray) hair. I don't have extreme hair loss, but it seems no new hair is growing to replace it. How can I address this?
ANSWER: Blonde hair is naturally thinner than darker hair, and hair density naturally declines with age.
The hair growth cycle consists of three phases: a growth phase lasting about five years, a resting phase of around five weeks, and a shedding phase. Research shows hair follicles are programmed for roughly 25 cycles. At that rate, hair could last up to 125 years under ideal conditions.
However, factors like poor diet, stress, illness, and hormonal changes can accelerate this cycle. Losing more than the typical 100 hairs per day indicates hair loss. In your case, aging is likely the primary cause.
Consider a nutritional supplement or specialized hair loss treatment to slow the process and preserve existing hair—consult your pharmacist or drugstore for recommendations.
Important note: Once a follicle stops producing hair, supplements or treatments cannot revive it.
Ton Retera, Technical Director, L'Oréal Professional Products Division
