WebMD writer Brenda Goodman M.A reports initial findings from a study involving identical twins (90 male and 98 female) that shows hair loss isn’t solely based on genetics.

The study done at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio showed that stress, smoking, heavy drinking and exposure to the sun all contribute to hair loss.

Twins are genetically destined to have the same amount of hairs, so if one of the twins has less hair, it’s caused by outside factors.

Each set of twins were asked to complete a questionnaire about their lives. Doctors took photos of the twins’ scalps to measure any thinning then determined which of the twins had more hair.

For men, genetics are still the predominant reason for hair loss but stress, smoking and heavy drinking also play a part.

For women, stress factors, particularly losing a spouse due to death or divorce, higher income, high blood pressure and having multiple children cause a greater risk of hair loss.

The research shows that sometimes hair can come back by adopting healthier habits, controlling stress, drinking coffee and being in a stable marriage.

Read full article: Twin study shows that hair loss isn’t solely based on genetics or aging