5 Common Causes of Hair Thinning (And Why Natural Oils Can Help)

Hair thinning doesn’t only happen with age. In fact, 25% of men in their 20s already show signs of hair loss, and more than 50% of women experience thinning after menopause. Stress, diet, inflammation and styling habits all play a role – and often, hair starts to thin long before we notice it.

Here are five common causes, and why natural oils like argan, pumpkin seed or rosemary may support healthier hair and scalp over time.

1. Nutrient deficiencies

Low levels of iron, Vitamin D and B12 are linked to shedding because they disrupt the hair growth cycle. Many nutrient-rich plant oils help nourish the scalp, especially when paired with a balanced diet.

2. Scalp inflammation

Inflammation, dandruff or eczema can weaken the hair follicle. Many botanical oils naturally contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe irritation and promote scalp comfort.

3. Stress

Women under high stress are 11x more likely to experience hair shedding. Supporting scalp health with calming or antioxidant-rich oils may help protect against stress-related dryness or breakage.

4. Heat styling

Excessive heat weakens the outer cuticle, causing breakage and dullness. Oils help coat the fibres and protect against dryness from styling tools.

5. Over-washing or harsh products

Many shampoos contain cleansing agents that strip natural oils from the scalp. Reintroducing moisture through natural oils helps support a healthy balance – especially if you wash your hair frequently.

Natural oils won’t reverse hair conditions overnight, but they can support stronger, smoother and healthier-looking strands over time by nourishing the scalp and reducing breakage.