Idaho Barber Licensure Practice Exam

The most common cause of hair loss is genetic factors, often manifesting as androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. This hereditary condition is influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal changes, particularly concerning androgens. It typically leads to gradual thinning of hair, which can start as early as in teenage years or early adulthood for some individuals.

While stress, poor diet, and environmental factors can contribute to hair loss, they usually play a secondary role or exacerbate conditions that are primarily genetic. Stress may lead to temporary hair shedding, such as telogen effluvium, but it is not the primary cause of long-term hair loss. A poor diet can also contribute to hair health, but significant hair loss due to diet alone is less common compared to genetic influences. Environmental factors, such as pollution or certain chemicals, may contribute to hair damage or thinning, but again, these are not the primary drivers of significant hair loss compared to hereditary traits. Understanding the predominant role of genetic factors is crucial for both barbers and their clients when addressing hair loss issues.