Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Medical Reasons and More

“The most common treatment for telogen effluvium is removing the trigger if it can be identified—and also time,” Dr. Lo Sicco says. Excessive hair fallout from taking medication is usually temporary. Hair may stop shedding when you stop taking the medication. If you believe medications are causing your hair to fall out, talk to your healthcare provider about changing dosages or finding an alternative medication.

Medications to treat hair loss

Doctors often prescribe FDA-approved medications to treat medical conditions other than those for which the drug was approved. But women do not lose all of their hair, as do some men. Without treatment, some women eventually develop widespread thinning. Minimize the use of high-heat styling tools, hair extensions and harsh treatments like perms. Avoid hairstyles like tight buns and braids that pull on your scalp, potentially causing traction alopecia.

What can I expect if I have female pattern baldness?

If you have alopecia, you can help hold onto your tresses by avoiding behaviors that are known to contribute to temporary and permanent hair loss, Mirmirani says. Dozens of over-the-counter supplements and products purport to reverse hair loss, making it tough for patients to know which ones work and which don’t. While alopecia doesn’t typically affect your physical health, the emotional and psychological distress it can cause are very real. Within the first few months of treatment, you may notice that you are losing less or minimal amounts of hair. Other vitamins and minerals may also play a role in hair loss. People can speak with a healthcare professional to determine whether they have a vitamin deficiency that may be causing hair loss.

Hair Loss in Women

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Doctors often prescribe oral medications to be used along with topical minoxidil because studies show the combination boosts hair production. Low-dose oral minoxidil (prescribed off-label) has been found to be effective and safe for most patients, Mirmirani says. Other oft-used drugs include finasteride (Propecia) and spironolactone. If you have scarring alopecia or alopecia areata, your doctor may recommend an anti-inflammatory medication such as the JAK inhibitor Olumiant (baricitinib) to help tamp down your immune system. Male-pattern hair loss is what causes a receding hairline and baldness in men. In women, female-pattern hair loss typically affects the crown or top of the head first, Mirmirani says.

Generally speaking, the sooner you start treatment, the more options you have and the better your results, dermatologists say. In many cases, a person’s hair will return to its usual state once a doctor has treated the underlying condition. Some people may choose to use a scalp concealer, hair topper, or other product to cover hair loss. A person should contact a doctor for a blood test to check whether they have a nutritional deficiency that could be causing their hair to fall out. If a person thinks that hair loss may be due to a medication, they can consult a doctor for an assessment. The doctor might reduce the dosage or switch the person to a different medication.

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Also, consider avoiding formulations that contain additives that might irritating to the scalp and inadvertently cause dryness or itchiness, such as harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances. Instead, seek out those that have been dermatologist-tested, says Dr. Shaver. You can look into disguising and covering up your hair loss with things like wigs, hair extensions, scarves and make-up. Persevere until you find a product and style that suits you. Discuss your hair loss with your friends, family and loved ones, preferably early on. Let them know how you feel about it and what kind of support you need.

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However, studies show that more than 50% of people assigned female at birth will experience noticeable hair loss. The most significant cause of hair loss in women is female-pattern hair loss (FPHL). This affects about 30 million people in the United States.

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In women and others with female reproductive organs, its most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Along with hair loss, other signs of PCOS include weight gain, acne, and irregular periods. As part of a treatment plan, she first has clients do a thorough blood panel. Then she curates a personalised in-clinic or at-home treatment regimen, as well as recommended lifestyle and diet changes that can help boost hair growth.

Hormones

These doctors have in-depth knowledge about the many causes of hair loss and experience treating the diverse causes. If a person notices they are losing more hair than usual, they may have an underlying condition. It is important to consult a doctor to learn what the possible cause and best treatment may be.

There are many other potential causes of hair loss in women. Treatment options for hair loss typically depend on the cause. They can also vary according to the pattern and location of hair loss. While most causes of hair loss are treatable, some may not be. "As soon as you start to see hair loss — because hair disorders are often time-sensitive — I would encourage you to see a hair specialist, such as a dermatologist," she says. But consult your doctor before you start to worry; thinning hair is often reversible, Dr. Simpson says.

Minoxidil may irritate your scalp and cause dryness, scaling, itching and/or redness. There are groups around the country where you can meet and socialise with other people with alopecia. In addition, getting regular exercise can help reduce stress. Walking, cycling, dancing, and hiking are low-impact options than can help keep your stress levels down.

Below are some frequently asked questions about hair loss. Avoiding tight hairstyles will usually prevent further damage. Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.

Wash your face after you apply minoxidil and make sure you avoid other areas when you apply it. It's also important to address the psychological impact of hair loss. If you've lost your hair, even temporarily, life will be easier if you can accept what's happened and learn to live with your altered appearance. The hair transplant has come a long way since the days of hair plugs.

They may interact with other medications or supplements you take. “Give your doctor a full hair history — when the thinning began, where and how extensive the thinning is, and any relevant symptoms,” she says. Long, short, bouncy, or sleek, for most women hair is way more than a bundle of fibers. But if you start to lose your hair, it can really freak you out. Hair loss can occur if you wear pigtails, braids or cornrows, or use tight hair rollers.