An estimated 95 percent of hair loss is genetic, but other factors, such as nutrition, overall health, hormone deficiencies, overcoloring of hair and emotional stress, can be controlled somewhat.

Hair loss is mainly caused by the following seven factors.

1. Abnormally sharp increase in dandruff

2. Abnormally sharp increase in sebum

3. Physical constitution highly sensitive to male hormones

4. Poor blood circulation or damaged hair cells

5. Mental disorder

6. Nutritional disorder

7. Other disease or injury

Hair loss is usually caused by the combination of any of the above factors. Basic medical treatment has not yet been established to deal with this kind of hair loss. If you suspect that you are suffering from any of the above abnormalities, get medical treatment as soon as possible to prevent hair loss.

Following are a few steps you can take to minimize your hair loss.

• Wash your hair regularly in warm water and use a deep conditioner.

• Eat a balanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies, eating disorders and excessive amounts of certain vitamins, such as A and E, can cause hair loss.

• Take care of your health. Chronic illness, high fevers and infections can contribute to hair loss.

• Stay away from harsh chemicals - permanent hair color and perms are the most damaging apart from this avoid coloring your hair more than once every six to eight weeks.

• Avoid hairstyles like ponytails and cornrows, which stretch and pull hair.

• Keep in mind that it's normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day.

• Consult your general physician or dermatologist regarding concerns about hair loss.

Because of hormonal changes in their bodies, nearly 50 percent of women experience hair loss after pregnancy. Normal hair production will eventually resume, though it can take as long as six months.

Some methods of preventing hair loss are merely old wives' tales. These include massaging your scalp, standing on your head to increase blood flow to hair follicles, and vigorous hair brushing.

Using Propecia or Minoxidil (Rogaine) produces varied results. Discuss your expectations and concerns with your doctor.