When a hair is shed, it is replaced by a new hair from the same follicle located just below the skin surface. Scalp hair grows about one-half inch a month. As people age, their rate of hair growth slows down. Hair is mostly made up of a form of protein, the same material found in fingernails and toenails. Everyone, regardless of age, should eat an adequate amount of protein to maintain normal hair production.
Protein is found in meat, chicken, fish, eggs, some cheese, dried beans, tofu', grains and nuts.
Causes of Abnormal Hair Loss Abnormal hair loss can be due to many different causes. People who notice their hair shedding in large amounts after combing or brushing, or whose hair becomes thinner or falls out, should consult a dermatologist. It's important to find the cause and whether or not the problem will respond to medical treatment. Dermatologists, physicians who specialize in treating diseases of the hair and skin, will evaluate a patient's hair problem by asking questions about diet, medications taken within the last six months, family history of hair loss, any recent illness and hair care habits. The dermatologist may ask a female patient about her menstrual cycles, pregnancies and menopause.