Keratin Blocked by Pollution Triggers Hair Loss

Male pattern baldness, which develops progressively starting with the appearance of a bald spot in the crown and thinning of the temples, is known to be hereditary.  Environmental predisposition to hair loss can also be found closer to home. A team of researchers at the University of London has linked the onset of male pattern baldness to environmental factors like air pollution and smoking.

Scientists examined the hair follicles of men suffering from alopecia. The follicles were then studied in labs. Researchers found that oxidative stress was interrupting normal hair growth. They concluded that hair loss is worsened by both air pollution and the effects of smoking. According to the study, the toxins and carcinogens in contaminated air can interfere with the protein producing processes within the body which stimulate hair growth. 

Environmental toxins may play a larger role in hair loss than previously thought. Sure there is an inherited basis to balding, but little do we know that environmental factors take a toll on hair health as well. Toxins and carcinogens in air pollution can block the production of keratin, the protein which forms hair. Any pollutant that can get into the bloodstream or into the skin and into the hair follicle could cause some stress to it and impair the ability of the hair to make a fiber. There are a whole host of carcinogens and toxins in the environment that could trigger this. If you live in an area with less air pollution you may be less predisposed to hair loss.

Good news is that such effects of pollution may be avoided in the near future by topical creams. Environmental factors can be controlled. There will be further research and tests to identify additional details about how environmental factors affect hair growth and baldness. Also, the researchers will look for ways to grow hair in different types of environments.