Reasons for Hair Loss in Women and How to Fix Them

Hair loss in women can be attributed to various factors, and it's often a complex interplay of genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors. Listed down are common causes of hair loss in women:

Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy and after childbirth can lead to temporary hair loss. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can even contribute to hair thinning and loss.

Genetics (Hereditary Hair Loss): Female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is a genetic condition that can cause hair thinning and loss in women. It tends to be more diffuse than male pattern baldness.

Medical Conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine disorder that can lead to hormonal imbalances, including elevated levels of androgens, potentially causing hair loss. Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can also disrupt the normal hair growth cycle. An autoimmune condition alopecia areata can cause patchy hair loss. Iron deficiency anemia can result in hair loss.

Telogen Effluvium: A condition where many hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase due to stress, illness, or major life events, leading to shedding.

Physical Trauma: Surgery, illness, or a traumatic event can trigger hair loss.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 can impact hair health.

Tight Hairstyles and Hair Treatments: Constantly wearing tight hairstyles or undergoing treatments like chemical straightening, perms, or excessive heat styling can cause hair breakage and loss.

Medications: Some medications, such as certain blood thinners, antifungals, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair loss as a side effect.

Poor Scalp Health: Conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis can affect the scalp and contribute to hair loss.

Age: Hair naturally thins as part of the aging process.
The approach to treating hair loss in females depends on the underlying cause. Here are some general strategies and tips that may help address or manage hair loss in women:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you're experiencing significant hair loss, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or a healthcare provider specializing in hair health. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments.

Hormone Therapy: Hormonal imbalances, such as those related to pregnancy, menopause, or conditions like PCOS, may benefit from hormone therapy prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Nutritional Supplements: Ensure you have a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. In some cases, supplements like biotin, iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B-vitamins may be recommended, but it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.

Topical Treatments: Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical medication that has been approved for the treatment of female pattern hair loss. It may help promote hair growth, but results can vary.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): LLLT devices, such as laser combs or helmets, may help stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Always consult with a healthcare professional or your dermatologist before using any such devices.

Avoid Tight Hairstyles and Harsh Treatments: Avoid hairstyles that pull the hair, minimize the use of harsh treatments such as chemical straightening or excessive heat styling, as these can contribute to hair breakage and loss.

Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques, as stress can contribute to certain types of hair loss. Try practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing as they may be helpful.

It's important to note that experiencing some degree of hair shedding is normal, and everyone's hair goes through cycles of growth, rest, and shedding. However, if there's a noticeable increase in hair loss or if it's causing distress.

REFERENCE-

Dinh QQ, Sinclair R. Female pattern hair loss: current treatment concepts. Clin Interv Aging. 2007;2(2):189-99. PMID: 18044135; PMCID: PMC2684510.