Women tend to have an intimate relationship with their hair. Whether you have voluminous hair or super straight strands – your hair is important to how you look and feel. So, when your hair starts to thin, you feel one thing: panic. But experts identify common reasons for thinning hair, and we thought we’d share four reasons with you. That way, you can say goodbye to panic and take steps to get your healthy hair back soon.

Stress and trauma

If you’ve experienced either physical or emotional trauma, you can experience something called “shock hair loss”, according to Yale professor of dermatology, Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D.

This hair loss can last for up to six months, and you can support hair regrowth by eating lots of vitamin B-rich foods and taking care of yourself.

Too many tools and treatments

Hot styling tools, keratin treatments, coloring, bleaches and more can all take a toll on your hair. After a while, strands can end up brittle and eventually thin. If you go heavy on hair treatments and styling, it’s time to take a step back and go for a more natural look, with milder products.

Hormones and health conditions

Marina Peredo, M.D., a New York City dermatologist, explains that anemia, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy and thyroid disorders can all leave women with thinning hair. So, if you notice sudden and / or consistent thinning hair, ask yourself if you’re noticing other health issues like fatigue, weight gain or dryness. Your thinning hair may be an indication of a deeper issue.

Genetics

Finally, thinning hair can be hereditary, and it’s referred to as androgenetic alopecia. Topical treatments, shampoos and even an improved diet can help women support natural hair growth and reverse hereditary hair thinning.