Many widely shared ideas about hair loss and baldness have been around for years. Here are some of the most common ones and what scientific research actually shows.
1. Hair loss only comes from your mother’s side of the family A frequent belief is that pattern hair loss is determined solely by genes inherited from the mother’s side (often linked to the maternal grandfather). In reality, pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is influenced by multiple genes inherited from both parents. While one gene associated with hair loss is located on the X chromosome (passed from mother to son), many other genetic factors come from the father’s side as well. Family history on either side can play a role.
2. Everyday stress directly causes permanent baldness Stress is often blamed for long-term hair thinning or baldness. Research shows that typical daily stress does not directly cause pattern baldness. However, severe physical or emotional stress (such as major life events or extreme dieting) can trigger a temporary condition called telogen effluvium. This leads to increased shedding for a few months before hair growth usually returns to its normal cycle. Pattern hair loss follows a different, more gradual process and is primarily driven by genetics and hormones.
3. Going bald means higher fertility Some people believe that baldness is linked to increased testosterone and therefore greater fertility. Studies indicate no direct positive connection between pattern baldness and higher fertility. Both hair loss and certain aspects of male hormone function are influenced by similar factors (including a hormone called DHT), but baldness itself is not an indicator of fertility levels. Some research has even observed the opposite trend in specific groups, though overall fertility depends on many individual health and lifestyle factors.
Other Common Factors in Hair Thinning Pattern hair loss is the most common type and tends to develop gradually with age. It affects both men and women and is influenced by:
- Genetics from both sides of the family
- Natural hormonal changes over time
- Age-related changes in hair follicles
Everyone’s hair is unique, and some degree of thinning is a normal part of aging for many people. Sudden or unusual changes in hair are worth discussing with a qualified healthcare professional.