Hello Mary, Causes of hair loss/thinning of hair are: 1. Environmental factors 2. Stress 3. Deficiency of certain minerals, vitamins & amino acids in diet. e.g. Iron, zinc, Vit B complex, lysine. 4. Hormonal factors. e.g. Thyroxine 5. Any incidence of surgery, shock, etc. Management includes: 1. Treating the underlying cause 2. Avoidance of stress 3. Dietary modifications 4. Minoxidil solution to be applied locally to stimulate the hair follicles 5. Multivitamin & multi mineral supplementation But these medications have to be used regularly under the guidance of a Dermatologist, as hair loss tends to return on stoppage of these medications. And before initiation of these medications, the problem of dandruff should be addressed. Dandruff is basically Seborrheic dermatitis & can be treated with shampoos or lotion containing salicylic acid, coal tar, ketoconazole, or selenium. So, it will be better to consult a Dermatologist to find out the underlying cause & start treatment accordingly. There is no need to worry. Your hairs will grow back again. Wishing you a Good Health. Thanks & take care.