Hair loss is a condition where women experience sudden hair fall, making some areas of the scalp look thin or even bald. Many people think that hair loss only affects men, but in reality, women also suffer from it. According to studies, more than 50% of women worldwide face noticeable hair loss at some point in their lives.
This problem can occur at any age, but it is more common in women over 40. During menopause, hormonal imbalances often make hair fall worse. Similarly, women who frequently wear tight hairstyles (like ponytails, buns, or braids) or use excessive chemical treatments (such as coloring, straightening, or perming) are at a higher risk of hair loss.
The good news is that today, there are many effective hair restoration treatments available—such as PRP therapy, topical medicines, hair transplants, and lifestyle changes—that can help improve hair growth and restore women’s confidence.
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What Causes Hair Loss in Women?
There are various causes of hair loss in women. The most common cause of hair loss in women is female pattern baldness which affects about a third of all the women with hair loss around the globe. Below are some of the causes of hair loss in women.
Hereditary Loss of Hair
This is the most common type of hair loss that affects both men and women worldwide. For men, it is referred to as the male pattern hair loss, while for women, it is the female pattern hair loss. Well, it is all the same in both men and women. In medical terms, this hair loss is commonly known as androgenetic alopecia. Hereditary means that it was passed from parent to child. Genes that cause the hair follicles to grow weak to the point that it stops growing are entirely passed on from generation to generation. Hair shrinking may occur as early as thirteen but is most noticeable by age 30. In most women, hereditary hair loss is usually noticeable through overall thinning or widening.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is a disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. Hair can be lost anywhere on the body, including the scalp, the inside of the nose, and the inside of the ears. Some people lose their eyelashes and eyebrows.
Age
As we age, most people will notice some hair loss as their hair grows slower. A woman’s hairline naturally begins to recede. Eventually, the follicles stop growing, and the hair on the scalp becomes thinner. The hair also begins to lose color.
Cancer Treatment
Cancer patients receive special treatment known as chemotherapy. Radiation treatment on your head or neck may result in a temporary loss of hair within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Hormonal Imbalance
The most common cause of hormonal imbalance is polycystic ovary syndrome, which leads to a cyst on the woman’s ovaries. Other symptoms may include hair loss. Stopping some types of oral contraceptives can cause temporary hormonal imbalances. Women who develop a hormonal imbalance may experience thinning hair (or hair loss) on their scalp.
Types of Hair Loss in Women
Telogen Effluvium-
This type of hair loss affects you when your body experiences trauma such as childbirth, starvation, a serious infection, major surgery, or significant stress. A large portion of the 90% or so of hair that is now in the anagen or catagen phases of growth may suddenly transition into the telogen phase.
Anagen Effluvium
Any injury to the hair follicle that reduces its cellular-level mitotic or metabolic activity results in anagen effluvium. Chemotherapy is frequently linked to this hair loss. Chemotherapy significantly affects other fast-dividing cells in your body as well, such as hair follicles that are in the anagen phase of growth, since it targets rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Traction Alopecia
This type of hair loss is caused by trauma to the hair follicles as a result of tight hair that pulls the hair all the time. Tight ponytails, cornrows, braiding, and extensions are some of the hairstyles that lead to traction alopecia.
Androgenic Alopecia
Androgenic alopecia in women is caused by the action of androgens. Which are male hormones that are usually present in trace amounts. Androgenic alopecia can be caused by a number of hormone-related factors, including ovarian cysts, taking high androgen index birth control pills, pregnancy, and menopause.
Female Hair Loss Solution
Hair Topper
Partial coverage hair toppers are the perfect solution for those who are struggling with gradual hair loss and thinning. Hair toppers are not an option for those who have completely lost their hair, as they must match the color and texture of their hair for it to look natural.
Hair Extension
They are ideal for those who suffer from general hair loss rather than hair loss in multiple specific areas. The extensions are attached under the top layer of hair and provide overall volume. There are three types of extensions that work best for hair loss, which are clip-in extensions, sewn-in weft extensions, and tape-in extensions. If you suffer from thinning hair, visit a registered hair extension stylist to create the best action plan for you.
Wigs
Wigs are becoming more popular every year, and it’s no surprise. Women and men enjoy wearing wigs more than ever before and enjoy the many benefits of wearing them. For a person, wearing a wig is as easy as a fake tan or other minor body modification that resembles acrylic nails. Changing your appearance has never been easier. Wigs are beautiful. A staunch competitor in the world of wigs, with so many different styles, shapes, and colors, it’s impossible to find a wig you’ll love.
Conclusion
Hair loss, whether caused by genetics, illness, or stress, can impact your confidence and self-esteem. There are several treatments available, and an experienced dermatologist can guide you toward the best option. If hair fall is due to stress, nutritional deficiency, or a medical condition, it can often be controlled and even reversed. However, if the hair loss is genetic (such as male or female pattern baldness), complete reversal is difficult. Still, treatment can help slow down the process and, in some cases, promote regrowth.