Hair Loss On Temples: Causes, Prevention & Treatments

Are you tired of covering up those empty patches on your temples? Losing hair on the temples is a common hair problem that can start quite early, even in mid-twenties.

Quick diagnosis and treatment is the best way to reverse hair thinning at the temples and eventually prevent the onset of male or female pattern baldness. Read on to understand the possible causes, symptoms, treatments and simple prevention tips for hair loss at the temples.

Our Ayurvedic Doctor Speaks

“Khalitya or hair fall is described in the Kshudra roga (minor diseases) section of the Ayurvedic arrangement of diseases. It is considered minor because it can be reversed and treated when medical intervention is solicited at the earliest. Also, it does not pose a major health risk.”

Dr. Zeel Gandhi (Bachelor of Ayurveda, Medicine & Surgery), Chief Ayurvedic Doctor, Vedix

What Is Temple Hair Loss?

It refers to the thinning and shedding of hair on the temples, and over time, such hair loss can leave behind bald patches at the temples.

A research called Study on Hair Fall with Hair Related Problems among Males of Age 18-50 Years, done on 393 men in the age group of 18 to 50, showed 60.3% report a prevalence of hair loss and 50.4% report baldness.

While this may be hereditary in nature, hormonal imbalances, overuse of hair products or treatments, tight hairstyles or stress can also lead to temple hair loss.

Termed as ‘Khalitya’ [1] in the ancient science of Ayurveda, the elevation of any of the three life energies (doshas) - Vata, Pitta or Kapha - puts the body into a state of disease. Temple hair loss occurs when Pitta combines with Vata or Kapha dosha to increase body heat or block out blood supply to the hair. This cuts off the hair’s nutrition, causing it to fall.

As per Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix, “Khalitya or hair fall is described in the Kshudra roga (minor diseases) section of the Ayurvedic arrangement of diseases. It is considered minor because it can be reversed and treated when medical intervention is solicited at the earliest. Also, it does not pose a major health risk.”

Factors Causing Hair Loss At The Temples For Both Men And Women

Hair loss at the crown area is quite common among both men and women. With age, your hair follicles shrink and lose their capability to produce new hair. The temple zone is more prone to hair loss in conditions such as male and female pattern baldness.

Dr. Zeel says, “Hair needs tender love and care just like everything else that needs nurturing for growth. Hair reflects the prana or vital life force of a person. Hair loss is a culmination of various health issues, and thus should not be ignored.”

Here are some of the major causes of hair loss on temples:

1. Poor Nutrition

The health of your hair directly depends on the food you eat. If you are not including enough proteins [3] and vitamins in your diet, your hair follicles will not receive proper nutrition and prematurely begin to shrink.

A few Ayurveda recommended power foods that can be included in your diet are Brahmi, coconut, almonds and other nuts, curry leaves, fenugreek, moringa, and ghee.

2. High Stress Levels

An unhealthy lifestyle puts your body in a state of stress which hinders proper metabolism, leaving the body and the hair malnourished. Chronic stress is also linked to other hair loss problems such as Alopecia Areata and Telogen Effluvium.

According to a research on How stress causes hair loss, when adrenal glands that produce stress hormones were removed from a group of mice, it led to increased hair growth and continued hair follicle regeneration despite aging, thus proving the effect of stress on one’s hair cycle.

3. Genetics

Hair loss at an early age can also be hereditary, depending upon the family history of baldness. In such cases, addressing the issue early may slow down the hair loss.

4. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal changes are a common factor that causes hair loss, especially in women. Hormonal imbalance in the body can be caused by various reasons such as medical issues, pregnancy, postpartum hair loss, menopause, thyroid etc.

Hair loss at the temples occurs when Dihydrotestosterone or DHT hormone [4] freely flows into the bloodstream. It binds the hair follicle receptors, cutting off the blood supply to the hair. This makes the hair follicles miniaturize abruptly, leading to hair loss.

5. Medication

Certain drugs such as beta-blockers, oral contraceptives, NSAIDs, antidepressants and others can lead to hair loss on temples.

6. Tight Hairstyles

Women who usually sport tight hairstyles face traction alopecia, a hair fall condition that occurs when hair is constantly pulled for a long period of time.

7. Smoking

There are multiple factors by which smoking causes hair loss. According to a study, Role of Smoking in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review, smoking can be related to androgenetic alopecia. It often increases androgen-related hair thinning on the temples.

The smoke metabolites increase the production of free radicals that stimulate follicular keratinocytes to generate cytokines like interleukin which inhibits hair growth. Smoking leads to vasoconstriction, which decreases blood supply to the hair roots and causes micro-inflammation[5] of the hair follicles, which affects hair growth.

8. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

Here hair loss occurs especially in the temple or frontal area of the head. Also known as scarring alopecia, this condition causes inflammation, thereby destroying the hair follicles. It is more common in women after menopause.

9. Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is caused by the rise of a hormone called androgen in the body. This hormone controls male sexual development, and its spike often leads to hair loss in the temple region for men.

This hormone can also cause hair loss in women. However, its effect is more defined in men.

In men this may start from the temple zone and extend further. In women, diffused hair loss is noticed.

10. Alopecia Areata

Female hair loss at temples is often caused by a condition called Female Pattern Baldness [6] or Alopecia Areata. This is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own hair follicles.

11. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

A condition that causes enlargement of the ovaries along with small cysts on the outer side. One of the known symptoms of PCOS is hair thinning and hair loss owing to a spike in androgenic hormones.

12. Aggravation Of Doshas

In Ayurveda, hair fall is referred to as ‘Khalitya’ or ‘Indralupta (Alopecia areata)’ [7]. If your hair is gradually thinning at the crown, it may be one of the first signs of baldness. Elevation of Vata dosha can cause dehydration of the scalp, leaving it dry and flaky. The hair follicles dry up without proper nutrition, making the hair susceptible to breakage.

Aggravation of Pitta dosha leads to excess heat in the body, which scorches the hair follicles causing them to swell up. Gradually, the hair follicles lose their capability to produce new hair. Kapha dosha elevation makes the scalp release excess sebum, which clogs the hair follicles, preventing nutrition from reaching the hair.

Symptoms Of Temple Hair Loss

Temple Hair Loss Symptoms In Women

• Hair loss begins gradually with the thinning of hair at the crown.
• Widening of the hair partition is noticed with diffused hair loss all over the top of the head in the later stages.
• New hair that grows back is finer, thus exposing the scalp.

Temple Hair Loss Symptoms In Men

• The hairline recedes back gradually to form an M shape and may later lead to total baldness.

How To Treat Hair Loss At The Temples?

Though hair loss at the temple region can be a source of constant worry, the condition is treatable. While there are many products that guarantee treatment, most come with harmful side effects. Therefore, Ayurvedic remedies are always a better choice as they are completely natural and address the issue at its roots.

Below mentioned are a few effective treatments and remedies that have been tried and tested over the years.

Medications and Treatments for Hair loss at Temples

1. Minoxidil

Minoxidil topical solution [8] is often recommended for both male and female hair loss at the temples. Minoxidil has shown considerable results in slowing down hair loss and regrowth of new hair in areas experiencing baldness.

However, the condition can only be partially reversed with the use of minoxidil. The common side effects of minoxidil are dry and itchy scalp. But you can easily battle these side effects by using Ayurveda-recommended oils and herbs such as Aloe Vera or Neem Oil.

2. Finasteride

Oral intake of Finasteride is known to promote new hair growth and prevent further hair loss at temples according to a research named Finasteride: a review of its use in male pattern hair loss. It is often prescribed to treat male pattern hair loss.

The main side effect of Finasteride includes erectile dysfunction which can be resolved if the medicine is discontinued.

3. Biotin Supplements

Oral biotin (vitamin B7) supplements may be prescribed to prevent hair loss at temples. You should be able to see improvements within 4 to 6 months of continued use.

4. Laser Light Therapy

According to research, Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Treatment of Hair Loss, laser light therapy effectively stimulated new hair growth in mice. It is considered effective and safe in treating hair loss for both men and women.

5. Hair Transplant

An extremely expensive but permanent solution to hair loss is the procedure of hair transplant. Here, active follicles are extracted from areas that have dense hair growth and replanted in areas experiencing baldness. Severe hair loss at the temples can be treated by this method.

6. PRP Treatment

PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma treatment is a popular way of treating hair loss or alopecia. Plasma extracted from the patient’s blood is injected in areas experiencing baldness for hair regeneration [9].

According to a study, The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Regrowth: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial, patients experienced an increase in the number of hairs and in hair density upon PRP treatment with no side effects. It also reported the development of small blood vessels around the hair follicles.

Ayurvedic Solutions For Hair Loss At Temples

A. Oils for Head Massage or Shiro Abhyanga

Shiro Abhyanga or Ayurvedic head massage rejuvenates your hair and increases blood flow to the hair follicles. Regular Shiro Abhyanga must be done over the scalp for 15 minutes using your fingertips for best results. A few oils recommended for this are given below:

1. Herbal oil made of Hibiscus, Coconut, Curry leaf and Methi

Hibiscus improves blood circulation, promotes hair growth and nourishes the scalp. Its leaves gently cleanse excess sebum from the scalp without stripping the hair of its moisture.

Coconut oil’s antifungal properties keep scalp infections at bay. Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, coconut oil seeps into the hair cuticle easily and protects the hair from sun and pollution damage.

Curry leaves are loaded with protein, amino acids, beta-carotene and antioxidants. They promote hair growth in areas where your hair is thinning and shedding.

Methi or fenugreek seeds prevent dandruff and hair fall. Rich in nicotinic and folic acid and lecithin with Vitamins A, K and C, it hydrates dry hair, giving it the perfect shine.

Preparation:

To prepare, heat coconut oil and add about 10 hibiscus flowers, 5 hibiscus leaves, curry leaf powder and fenugreek (methi). Soak the contents overnight and then filter the oil. Massage your scalp for fifteen minutes 2 to 3 times in a week as per your requirement.

2. Bhringaraj, Brahmi And Amla Oil

Bhringaraj is enriched with the goodness of Vitamin E, D, polypeptides, calcium, magnesium and iron. It helps regrow damaged hair, prevents premature greying and maintains constant production of melanin that gives your hair its color.

Brahmi improves blood circulation to the hair follicles. It has alkaloids that attach to the keratin in your hair, making hair shafts strong and healthy.

The phyto-nutrients present in Amla protect hair from sun damage. Minerals and vitamins in Amla rejuvenate the hair roots making hair less prone to damage.

Preparation:

Add 1 tablespoon each of bhringaraj, brahmi and amla powders to 100ml of coconut oil. Heat the oil for 2-5 minutes, and then turn off the flame. Pour it in a covered vessel and let the ingredients soak overnight. Strain and massage your scalp 3-4 times a week to prevent hair loss.

3. Onion Oil

Onion oil or juice extracted from small onions is an astounding hair growth booster. Full of antioxidants, Vitamins A, C, E and B1, calcium and iron, this oil actively reduces hair loss. With anti-inflammatory properties, onion oil prevents your hair follicles from shrinking.

Preparation:

Combine onion juice with coconut or olive oil to prevent hair problems caused by Vata- Pitta dosha imbalance.

B. Hair Packs To Treat Hair Loss On The Temples

Ayurvedic texts speak of the use of various Shirolepas to treat the condition of Khalitya or baldness. A Shirolepa is a hair pack prepared by combining various herbs that help in balancing the effects of the doshas.

1. Gunja beej Lepa

Gunja or Rosary pea is a herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating alopecia since ancient times. It balances the Vata and Pitta doshas on the scalp. Gunja seed and root powder are available in Ayurvedic stores.

Preparation:

• Make a paste with water and apply on areas suffering from excess hair fall.

2. Jatamansi

This magical herb is known to promote hair growth even in cases of severe alopecia.

Preparation:

• Jatamansi powder can be made into a paste with coconut oil for Shirolepa.
• Leave the pack on for 30 minutes before washing off with water.

3. Henna

Henna, Mehendi or Madayantika’s cooling effect on the scalp pacifies Pitta dosha elevations that cause hair to fall off. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that prevent scalp or hair follicle infections.

Preparation:

• Add a sufficient amount of water to 1-2 tablespoons of henna powder.
• To this add a few drops of bhringraj oil.
• Apply the hair mask for 30 minutes to an hour before washing off.

4. Guduchi

Guduchi is mainly used for its cleansing properties that purify and rejuvenate your body along with promoting hair growth. Its anti-inflammatory nature reduces swelling of hair follicles caused by Pitta dosha elevation.

Preparation:

• Guduchi powder can be mixed with your choice of herbal hair oil and applied as a lepa on the scalp.
• Wash off after an hour.

Vedix Tip:

It is advisable to wash hair with Shikakai which cleans the scalp of excess sebum and allows the hair follicles to breathe.

The 3 Ayurvedic treatments given below can only be administered by an Ayurvedic doctor after knowing the patient’s Prakriti or bodily constitution:

A. Shirodhara

Shirodhara is the process of pouring medicated oils or liquid prepared from herbs on the forehead and allowing it to flow down your scalp and hair. This is used to correct the elevation of doshas in the body and heal the affected areas on the scalp. Shirodhara is often followed by Shirolepa.

B. Rasayana

In Rasayana Chikitsya, oral Ayurvedic medicine is prescribed to patients by Ayurvedic doctors after diagnosing the ailment. Among many herbs, Guduchi and Ashwagandha are considered as some of the best Rasayanas.

C. Nasya

In this procedure, liquids such as oil and ghee are administered through the nasal cavity to treat premature greying or Palitya and balding or Khalitya. In Ayurveda, Nasya is considered one of the best ways of treating Khalitya and other hair-related problems. Oils used in Nasya are Bhringaraj taila, Nimba taila, Sahacharadi taila and Maha Nila Taila among others.

13 Ways To Prevent Hair Loss At Temples

In most cases, the onset of temple hair loss can be easily prevented if you follow the below-mentioned guidelines:

1. Include proteins, vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids in your diet.

2. Avoid tying your hair in tight hairstyles.

3. Reduce your use of chemical hair products and heat treatments [10].

4. Frequently change the way you part your hair. Avoid center partitions if your hair is thinning at the temples.

5. Use a gentle herbal shampoo.

6. Avoid direct sun exposure.

7. Drink lots of water.

8. Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol.

9. Ensure that you are getting adequate sleep.

10. Practise Yoga to maintain a calm mind and equilibrium in your doshas. Remember, stress and negative emotions play a key role in hair loss problems.

11. Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner and get your doshas checked to prevent aggravation.

12. Get a diet chart based on your body constitution. Avoid spicy foods as they can further increase heat in the body. Include Ayurvedic superfoods such as triphala, coconut, curry leaves, almonds and other nuts, fenugreek, Brahmi, moringa, and ghee.

13. Indulge in Ayurveda recommended hair care regimes that are mentioned in this article.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss On Temples

Can Hair Grow Back On Temples?

It is difficult to regrow hair in areas where the hair follicles have shrunk. However, if enough blood supply and nutrition can be provided to the hair follicles, temple hair loss may be reversed.

How To Grow Temple Hair Back?

To grow your temple hair back, it is important to know the cause behind it. Ayurvedic remedies have shown positive results in growing back lost hair. Additionally, consumption of Ayurveda-recommended power foods and DHT blocker foods can help.

Adding vegetables containing zinc (spinach, kale, mushrooms, green peas, sweet corn), and foods that contain lycopene help in controlling DHT levels in your body. Include foods like watermelon, tomato, carrot, red capsicum, and pink grapefruit in your diet.

The Last Word

• Hair loss or thinning at the temples can be the first sign that you are going through a condition of hair fall.
• While it is not a serious medical issue, it is advisable to understand the factors causing it, which includes lack of nutrition, hormonal imbalance, etc.
• Consult your Ayurvedic doctor at the earliest in order to diagnose the root cause depending on your Prakriti.
• With Ayurveda’s holistic approach to healing, the problem of hair loss can be prevented and its effects reversed through the use of hair growth promoting herbs.