What Are the Causes of Eyebrow Loss?

All hair on the human body, regardless of its location, goes through periods of rest and growth. When those resting periods become less frequent, hair loss begins to outpace hair growth. It is then easier to notice patches of hair that are not replenishing as often as they once did. Eyebrows are just as susceptible as other types of hair, and the causes of eyebrow loss are similar to the causes of other types of hair loss.

Overgrooming

• Plucking or grooming your eyebrows too often can result in thinning eyebrow hair. Once you stop overgrooming, normal eyebrow-hair growth generally returns.

Endocrine Issues

• The endocrine system is the hormonal control center of the human body. If the endocrine system is out off balance because of illness or other issues, hair growth of all types can be affected. Once you restore balance to your endocrine system, normal hair growth can resume.

Medications

• Some medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can interfere with eyebrow-hair growth. Chemotherapy and hormone-altering medications, such as birth control pills, are common culprits, as are anti-seizure medications and anti-depressants. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also interfere with hair growth when taken in large quantities.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Taking more than the recommended dosages of some vitamins and minerals can cause hair loss. In particular, B vitamins and vitamin A interrupt hair growth in large doses. Reducing your intake of these vitamins can reverse the problem.

Infections and Skin Conditions

• How well your hair can grow depends on your skin health. Fungal infections, dermatitis and lice can all impede your skin's ability to allow hair through the follicles. Treating the skin condition allows normal hair growth to resume.

Autoimmune Disorders

• When the body begins to see parts of itself as pathogens, it begins to attack those parts. This is the basis of autoimmune disorders like lupus, vitiligo and alopecia. All of these disorders involve complicated sets of symptoms that doctors can help you manage. Hair loss can be difficult to reverse, but your doctor may be able to offer assistance.

Heavy Metals

• Heavy metal poisoning is less common than in the past because of government control of ingredients and chemicals, but it can still be an issue in some areas. Compounds like iodine, arsenic and mercury can cause hair loss when ingested in large amounts. Reversing the situation early helps to reverse hair damage.