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Loss of Hair in Women

By on October 9, 2012

It is a common misconception that only men suffer from hair loss. But the reality is women are struggling with this issue also. In fact, an estimated two-thirds of the female population are said to experience hair loss. Genetics is the predominant reason for male hair loss, but hair loss in women has its own causes.

Hormones are a major player in female hair loss, specifically dihydrotestosterone or DHT. This hormone makes the follicles of your hair smaller which results to thicker scalp membranes that restrict the circulation to your hair follicles. Lack of blood flow to the follicles makes them atrophy, leading to your hair falling out. Other hormonal issues can be secondary to use or discontinuation of birth control pills. Obstetric conditions like pregnancy, post-partum states, menopause and obstetric surgeries can also cause hormonal shifts can also be reasons.

Health conditions can also be the underlying cause for loss of hair in women. Diseases such as iron deficiency anemia, thyroid problems, autoimmune issues, ring worm and fungal infections can contribute to hair loss. There are also medications that are known to thin out hair. They include common drugs like anti-coagulants, blood pressure medication, gout medication, thyroid medications and oral contraceptives. These drugs can cause a condition named telogen effluvium, wherein hair shifts to a resting period and fall out after several months. The good thing about drug-related hair loss is that it can be reversed when the meds are discontinued.

Loss of Hair in Women

Too much stress can also cause hair loss in women. It can be emotional stress, work-related stress or stress from physical illness or surgery. Hair growth slows down during and after stressful events because the hair follicles fall to a resting period, thereby reducing the growth of new hair.

Vanity can also be a factor. We all know that women are very particular with their looks and self-image that is why they curl, straighten and style their crowning glory. These mechanical stresses on the hair are among the causes of female hair loss. Excessive hair treatments such as hot oil and perming can inflame and scar the hair follicles, leading to loss of hair.

Women experiencing hair loss can have lowered self-esteem. Women take pride in their crowning glory, and thinning hair can blow their confidence. Fortunately, there are things females can do to regain healthy locks. The first step is to figure out the underlying cause of the hair loss. Once the cause is determines, one can take steps to reverse the process.

If the hair loss is secondary to a disease, treating the underlying condition can stop the problem. If the cause is the medication, discontinuing the meds and finding an alternative that does not affect the hair can be a solution. Stress-related hair loss can be alleviated by yoga, meditation and exercise. Avoiding hairstyles and hair treatment that cause stress on the hair can also be effective. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are also recommended. All of these can be done to improve the condition of the hair and hair follicles and avoid continued hair loss in women.