States With The Most And Least Hair Loss Concerns

“I like hair, it’s pleasant, it’s peaceful, no one gets hurt. I just want to make hair silky smooth” ~ The Zohan.

To observe National Hair Loss Awareness Month this upcoming August, Innerbody Research recently conducted a study using federal health data and geographically specific search trends to analyze which American states face the most hair loss concerns — and where it’s less of an issue.

In addition to analyzing and ranking the 50 states plus D.C., the study explored underlying hair loss factors such as environmental characteristics, stress levels, and cultural attitudes, which may help explain these hair follicle-loss outcomes. 

Quick Highlights

• New York metro area states are among the most concerned with hair loss, while many West Coast and Midwest states are generally less troubled.
• Low-stress states seem less concerned with hair follicle loss. Vermont, South Dakota, Maine, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Washington, and Minnesota are among both the least stressful states to work in and the least troubled with the issue.
• Poor air quality may contribute to hair follicle loss. High-ranking hair loss angst in Utah, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Tennessee, California, Kansas, and Delaware all correlate to lower air quality ratings.
• Vanity, thy name is… New York? States that have ranked as the most vain were often among those most concerned with the issue.
• Alaska is the least troubled by hair follicle loss, by far. This may be partially because Alaska Natives are one of the populations least affected by the issue.
• Sunshine to blame? Some of the least affected states — Alaska, Maine, Oregon, Washington, and Indiana — also receive some of the least sun each year.

The Top 15 U.S States Most Concerned By Hair Loss

1. New Jersey
2. New York
3. Connecticut
4. Louisiana
5. Utah
6. Pennsylvania
7. Massachusetts
8. Florida
9. Illinois
10. Georgia
11. Tennessee
12. California
13. Kansas
14. Rhode Island
15. Delaware

The Top 15 U.S States Least Concerned By Hair Loss

1. Alaska
2. Vermont
3. North Dakota
4. South Dakota
5. Maine
6. Montana
7. Wyoming
8. West Virginia
9. Wisconsin
10. Iowa
11. Oregon
12. Washington
13. Indiana
14. Minnesota
15. Idaho

Hair Loss In America

Most people will lose around 50 to 100 hairs a day. While that may sound like a lot, most people have around 100,000 hairs on their head. This loss is typically not noticed as new hair will replace the loss, but this isn’t always the case. 

Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, and even certain hairstyles and hair care practices. Understanding the specific cause can help determine the best course of treatment. 

Anagen effluvium is rapid hair follicle loss that is generally due to radiation treatment or chemotherapy

Telogen effluvium is sudden hair follicle loss that may be due to emotional or physical shock, such as that from a traumatic event, a period of extreme stress, or a serious illness. However, it can also stem from childbirth, postpartum, menopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), certain endocrine disorders, acute illness, severe infections, as well as a result of anesthesia, malnutrition, and a vitamin or mineral deficiency. 

Common Causes of Hair Loss

• Hereditary Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia): This is the most common type of hair follicle loss, also known as male or female pattern baldness, and is primarily caused by genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. It is estimated to affect up to 50% of people. 
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones due to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid problems can lead to temporary or permanent hair follicle loss. 
• Medical Conditions: Certain illnesses, such as autoimmune diseases (like alopecia areata), infections, and skin conditions (like ringworm), can cause hair loss. 
• Medications: Some medications, such as anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, oral retinoids, beta-blockers, thyroid medications, and those for cancer, arthritis, depression, and heart problems, can have hair loss as a side effect. 
• Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair sheds more than usual. 
• Dietary Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like iron, protein, or certain vitamins (B vitamins, vitamin D) can contribute to hair loss. 
• Hairstyles and Hair Care Practices: Tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or cornrows, as well as excessive heat styling or chemical treatments, can damage hair and lead to hair loss or breakage (traction alopecia). 
• Age: Hair naturally thins and becomes finer with age, and some hair loss is a normal part of the aging process. 

Other Less Common Causes

• Trichotillomania: A mental disorder that involves pulling out one’s own hair. 
• Scalp Infections: Ringworm and other fungal infections can cause patchy hair loss. 
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus can also affect hair growth. (alopecia areata)
• Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy can cause significant hair loss as a side effect. 

Hair Loss Prevention

To prevent hair loss, focus on a combination of healthy habits, proper hair care, and addressing potential underlying medical conditions. A balanced diet, stress management, and gentle hair care practices are key, alongside exploring medical treatments if necessary. 

1. Healthy Habits & Diet

• Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins A, D, E, and B vitamins, as well as iron, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients are crucial for healthy hair follicles and growth. 
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. 
• Hydration: Staying hydrated helps keep your hair follicles healthy. 
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact hair health by restricting blood flow to the scalp. 

2. Hair Care Practices

• Gentle Hair Care: Avoid over-washing your hair and using harsh chemicals. Use mild shampoos and conditioners. You could also consider using a hair mask.
• Protect from Heat: Limit the use of heat styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons, as excessive heat can damage hair. 
• Protect from Sun: Shield your hair from UV damage with hats or protective serums, especially when exposed to the sun. 
• Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Hairstyles that pull on the hair, like tight braids or ponytails, can damage hair follicles. 
• Scalp Massage: Regularly massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow and potentially promote hair growth. 

3. Medical Considerations

• Address Underlying Conditions: Conditions like thyroid disease or other medical issues can contribute to hair loss. Consult with a doctor to manage these conditions. 
• Medical Treatments: Explore FDA-approved medications like minoxidil and finasteride, which can help slow down hair loss. 

Early Intervention

Seek professional help from a dermatologist or doctor if you experience sudden or severe hair loss or scalp irritation. 

By adopting these strategies, you can significantly improve your hair health and potentially prevent or minimize hair loss. 

This article was written by TJ Webber at the WHN News Desk, and it was created using some of the data/information that was supplied by Eic Rodriguez, who is the Co-Founder and CEO of Innerbody Research. 

As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN neither agrees nor disagrees with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.