Does Leg Hair Stop Growing at a Certain Age?

Published August 8, 2023

We all know that getting bald once we get old is scary, yet there’s no way we can stop it. Somehow, we still want to have that healthy and volumed hair. But, all these will be gone in our later years. And it’s inevitable.

But did you know that not only on the head we can experience hair loss? This can happen on our legs and in many parts of our body.

There are a lot of reasons why a person experiences hair loss. But one thing is for sure, those unwanted hair problems you have in your early years will not be forever.

(Related: How Old Do You Have To Be To Get Laser Hair Removal)

Why Does Leg Hair Stop Growing?

As you age, thinning of the hair and changes in your hair color are very common. The same thing happens with your leg hair.

When you grow old, your levels of hormones fall, and so does your hair. A noticeable amount of hair will fall off, especially if it runs in your family.

Other Causes of Hair Loss on Your Legs

Hair loss is a normal part of the aging process. But there are other reasons as well why your leg hair stops growing. Here are other causes of hair loss on your legs.

Friction

Wearing tight-fitting clothes can create friction on your legs. This friction can damage your skin and hair follicles increasing your chances of hair loss.

But don’t worry just yet. The hair on your legs can still grow. When you avoid wearing these clothes, the damage to your skin and hair follicles will also stop.

Scars

If you have scars on your legs, your hair follicles on the scar area have probably already been damaged. Hair cannot grow on scar tissues. Thus, you can see some hair loss or patches that don’t have hair on some areas of your legs that have scars.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of iron, zinc, and vitamin D can result in hair loss. Your body needs enough nutrients to produce enough healthy hair all over the body. Without these, the hair falls out, and dullness can happen to your leg and every hair on your skin.

Stress

Have you heard about being sick because of too much stress? Well, that’s not a myth, and it can also result in hair thinning and fallout. Medical experts say that if you’re too young for hair loss, then you’re stressed out.

Certain Medical Conditions

Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder. It results in hair loss in circular small patches around the size of a coin. These can occur on any part of the human body, including the upper and lower legs.

These small patches that appear in the legs are called Anterolateral leg alopecia. Although it’s harmless, it can affect one’s self-esteem and confidence. This condition affects both men and women, regardless of age.

Medications

Certain medications can cause hair loss and prevent hair growth.

For example, cancer patients who are taking chemotherapy drugs experience hair loss. This is because the drug targets both cancer and good cells that help grow hair.

People who are undergoing chemotherapy lose not only the hair on their heads. But also to other parts of the body, including the legs.

Cancer medications, birth control pills, and blood thinners can lead to hair loss. A high dose of vitamin A, medicines for high blood pressure, depression, and gout can also result in this.

While thinning hair on your legs and any part of your body is normal. Seeking medical advice is also advised.

(Read also: Everything You Need To Know About Laser Hair Removal)

Hair Loss on Legs: Possible Solutions

1. Treating the underlying condition

Hair loss on the legs can be due to an underlying medical condition such as PAD, diabetes, or thyroid issues. Managing and treating these conditions may help improve circulation and promote hair regrowth.

2. Medications

Medications such as minoxidil (Rogaine) may be prescribed as a hair stimulant. But, it’s essential to consult a doctor before starting any medicine.

3. Topical treatments

Specific topical treatments like corticosteroid creams or ointments may be recommended. This can reduce inflammation and promote hair regrowth, especially in alopecia areata or other inflammatory conditions.

4. Lifestyle changes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to hair health. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. You should also exercise regularly to improve circulation and manage your stress levels. Avoid excessive heat or chemical treatments that can damage the hair.

5. Hair transplantation

In severe cases of hair loss, hair transplantation may be an option. Hair follicles from other body areas, such as the scalp, can be transplanted into the legs. This is to promote hair regrowth.