Thinning Hair in Women
Many people consider hair loss affects men only. However, it’s quite common in women too. Statistics show that over 50 percent of women experience hair loss. It is characterized by thinning hair, giving the appearance of sparser spots of hair on the head.
Moreover, as it happens gradually, you can pinpoint the cause and seek the best treatment measures to manage the condition better.
Common Causes of Thinning Hair in Women
Thinning hair in women is likely to be triggered by the following:
Lifestyle habits such as:
- Over treating of the hair such as perms, relaxers, and color treatments
- Using harsh and chemical-based hair products like gels and extreme-hold hair sprays
- Wearing tight ponytails or hairstyles which tug the hair and break it from the follicles
- A poor diet that doesn’t include folic acid, essential minerals, and iron
- Suffering from chronic stress upticks cortisol hormones which can fill new hairs that are ready to grow
Hair loss can be hereditary or triggered by a medical condition.
You might experience thinning hair if you:
- Had a baby recently
- Stopped using birth control pills
- Are going through hormonal changes
- Lost weight fast
- Are being treated for an autoimmune disorder
- Have immune system deficiencies
- Have vitamin D deficiency
In some women, thinning hair may be triggered by female-pattern hair loss (FPHL). This condition affects 1/3 of susceptible women, equal to 30 million women in the US. It is caused by:
Your family genes may cause thinning of hair at the top of the head.
Hormonal change may occur with age resulting in female pattern hair loss.
During menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone fall. This hormonal change increases the effects of androgens, the male hormones. Hence, the hair becomes thinner during menopause, causing the hair follicles to shrink. After menopause, the hair grows slowly while it falls out quickly and faster.
Does thinning hair grow back?
Thinning hair growing back depends on the cause of the thinning. Your hair might grow if you experience thinning hair because of stress, nutrient deficiencies, or pregnancy. However, it is best to consult our medical professionals so that they can provide you with the best treatment for your specific condition.
Which women experience thinning hair or hair loss?
Any woman can be affected by this condition, but it is more common in women who:
● Are above 40
● Recently delivered babies
● Had chemotherapy or is affected by other medication
● Are going through menopause
Different Cycles of Hair Growth
The Anagen Phase
Also known as the growing phase. The hair strands continue to grow actively. This stage lasts from two to eight years.
The Catagen Phase
The Catagen phase is a short transition stage. This stage lasts for three weeks. At this stage, the hair stops growing and prepares to fall.
The Telogen Phase
The Telogen phase occurs when the hair gets expelled from the follicle. The hair falls while the follicle stays dormant for three months.
Symptoms of Thinning Hair in Women
Among the top symptoms of thinning hair include:
● More hair falls in the drain, on the brush, on the pillow, and in the sink
● Noticeable patches of missing or thinner hair that cause the part to widen at the top of the head
● Visible scalp skin
How is thinning hair condition diagnosed?
Multiple tests may be performed to diagnose the condition. These tests may include:
- Pulling the hair gently to see how many hairs break
- Blood tests to check mineral and vitamin levels such as Vitamin D and Vitamin B
- Blood tests may also be carried out to check hormone levels such as sex hormones and thyroid
- Microscopic examination of the scalp
- Scalp biopsy
Once the underlying cause is determined, we will provide you with the best treatment to overcome and manage the issue.