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Hair Problems
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Hair Problems

The average person has 5 million hairs that serve to protect the body and regulate temperature, though they are susceptible to common issues like infections and flaking.

Overview

The average person has 5 million hairs. Hair grows all over the body, with the exception of the lips, palms, and the soles of the feet. Healthy hair grows at a rate of approximately half an inch per month. Most hairs grow for up to six years before falling out, at which point new hairs grow in their place.

Function of Hair

Hair serves several protective functions:

  • It helps keep the body warm.
  • It protects the eyes, ears, and nose from small particles in the air.

Common Concerns

Common problems involving the hair and scalp include:

  • Hair loss
  • Infections
  • Flaking

Frequently Asked Questions

While dry skin causes fine, white flakes that can be brushed away, conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis often present with thicker, yellowish, or silvery scales that may be oily or itchy. Warning signs that require medical attention include persistent redness, swelling, or pain in the scalp, the presence of open sores or crusting, and flaking that does not improve with over-the-counter moisturizing shampoos after two to three weeks of consistent use. These symptoms may indicate an underlying infection or inflammatory condition that requires prescription-strength topical treatments.
Healthy hair generally grows at a rate of about half an inch per month, but this rate can slow down due to aging, nutritional deficiencies, or systemic health issues. A noticeable decrease in growth rate, especially if accompanied by brittle texture or increased breakage, may signal a deficiency in iron, zinc, or protein. If your hair growth has significantly slowed or stopped for a specific area, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to rule out thyroid disorders or other metabolic conditions that affect the hair follicle cycle.
Normal hair shedding typically ranges from 50 to 100 strands per day and is part of the natural hair growth cycle. You may be experiencing pathological hair loss if you notice a sudden increase in shedding, such as finding large clumps in your hairbrush or on your pillow, or if you observe a widening part line or thinning at the crown that persists over several weeks. If you are unsure, a simple pull test performed by a dermatologist can help determine if the hair is in the anagen or telogen phase and if intervention is needed.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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