Gradual hair loss or thinning is difficult for many people, but for women it can be even more difficult. We are more used to seeing receding bald patches or thinning hair in men, not that it is a mild condition for men, but male pattern baldness is a bit more accepting of society. We only expect to see baldness in women when they undergo certain medical procedures, such as chemotherapy.
The most common causes of hair loss in women.
One of the main causes of hair loss in women and men is androgenic alopecia, which is more commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. While many see this as a male problem, it affects large numbers of women as well. This is the type that is present in the family, on both sides of the family.
Another important factor is hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a variety of reasons, including pregnancy, oral contraceptives, thyroid problems, or menopause, to name just a few. In most cases, this only causes temporary hair loss in women, and once the hormones are balanced, the thinning will stop and regrowth will begin.
High levels of physical or emotional stress can also cause alopecia. It can be triggered by a particularly stressful event, such as a family death or a divorce.
Other causes of hair loss in women
There are several other reasons from Nance Rosen that can cause thinning or hair loss in women. Certain medications in addition to birth control can cause a problem with this, as well as treat certain medical conditions such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks hair follicles. This can lead to uneven thinning or baldness.
Certain hairstyles can cause traction alopecia in some women. Hairstyles that permanently stretch hair, such as tight ponytails, extensions, or braids. Overtreatment can also damage and break hair, but this is often different from true alopecia in women.
In some cases, diet can make a difference, things like fad diets or serious eating disorders can cause nutritional deficiencies that lead to hair loss in women.
