Thinning Hair: 5 Factors Linked to Density Loss
14th March 2025

Thinning Hair: 5 Factors Linked to Density Loss

 

Our founder, Dr. Julie Pernet , pharmacist and trichologist, recently gave an interview to ELLE about thinning hair and solutions. Read the article here!

 

Thinning hair affects approximately 40% of women by the age of 40. Fortunately, it's not inevitable, and there are solutions to address it, provided you know how to avoid the factors that contribute to this loss of density. Discover Dr. Julie Pernet's advice!

 

 

 

What is the difference between fine hair and thinning hair?

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: "Fine hair has a smaller than average diameter, which makes it more delicate and less voluminous. A person can have a lot of hair even if it's fine. On the other hand, thinning hair concerns hair density: it's the number of hairs per square centimeter. When it becomes thin, it means there's a loss of density, often due to hair loss or slowed growth."

 

 

The 5 factors that lead to hair loss

 

1. Hormones 

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: "Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can shorten the hair's life cycle, gradually leading to follicle miniaturization. This phenomenon is particularly observed in androgenic alopecia, which affects approximately 20% of women according to the CMCC (Centre Expert en Médecine et Chirurgie Capillaire de Paris). Added to this are hormonal fluctuations linked to pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders, which can cause a visible loss of density."

 

 

2. The stress

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: "Stress can cause telogen effluvium, which is a sudden and widespread hair loss. A large amount of hair enters the shedding phase prematurely, and the amount of hair lost is abnormally high."

 

 

 

3. Nutritional deficiencies

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: "A deficiency in iron, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins (especially biotin), or essential amino acids can slow growth and weaken the hair fiber. To promote density, focus on foods rich in protein (meat, fish, legumes), iron (spinach, lentils), zinc (nuts, seafood), vitamin D (oily fish, sun), and omega-3 fatty acids (vegetable oils, fish). You can also take appropriate dietary supplements ."

 

 

4. Harsh hair products & colorings

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: “Chemical dyes, bleaching, and highlights contain oxidizing agents (ammonia, hydrogen peroxide) that open the hair cuticles. As a result, the hair fiber becomes more fragile and brittle, and the hair loses density. It is therefore essential to favor ammonia-free dyes, nourishing post-coloring treatments, gentle shampoos without sulfates or occlusive silicones, and natural hair masks .”

 

 

5. Bad styling habits

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: "Excessive traction on the hair follicles from certain hairstyles, such as buns or ponytails, can cause traction alopecia , a progressive hair loss that can become irreversible if the follicle is too damaged. Similarly, overly tight elastics, metal clips, and high-temperature heat styling tools weaken the hair fiber and accelerate thinning. Always use a heat protectant before blow-drying to protect the hair fiber as much as possible."

 

 

 

What are the solutions ?

 

Dr. Julie Pernet: “By identifying the underlying cause (stress, deficiencies, hormonal imbalance) and adopting a suitable hair care routine, it is possible to promote regrowth. Several solutions exist: biotin-based stimulating serums, manual scalp massages or massages with a dedicated brush to activate blood circulation, a diet rich in essential nutrients, scalp detoxification with appropriate products… If the loss of density persists, more advanced techniques such as hair mesotherapy, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), or microneedling can stimulate the follicles. The earlier you act, the higher the chances of recovery.”

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