The Ultimate Guide to Female Hair Loss: Causes and Treatments
Hair is a statement piece for many women who want to stand out. Hair can boost your confidence and look elegant when styled the right way. It’s a staple piece you should nurture and maintain. From straight and wavy to attractive curly textures – all are equally beautiful! However, hair can also have its bad days and can fall out as time goes on. It can also become weak and prone to damage, a concern many of us are trying to avoid. At some point in their lives, men and women may experience hair thinning and sparseness. Are you a female who is experiencing hair loss? If so, don’t panic! You need to find the ”root” of the problem so you can approach it properly. This is because some of the causes of hair loss for women are different from men. Here is all you need to know about hair loss in women and how to tackle it appropriately.
So, What Is Female Hair Loss?
Female hair loss can be a genetic predisposition, androgenetic alopecia, or breakage caused by other external factors. Millions of women experience this globally. However, don’t have it confused with male pattern baldness which typically happens around the crown of the hair. Hair loss or hair thinning can happen at any given point, no matter your age, hair colour, hair length, or texture. For most women, this occurs when they hit menopause, post partum, or experience different health-related issues and hormonal changes.
Fun fact: Women tend to experience hair loss later in life compared to men, and often face greater emotional impacts due to societal expectations.
How To Understand Female Hair Loss?
Female hair loss is a complex issue that happens due to several factors. It’s often connected with PCOD (polycystic ovarian disorder) that impacts millions of ladies across the globe. Every case is unique and different, meaning there are no generalisations about why it happens and when it happens. For some, it could be due to high levels of stress while for others, the causes may be genetic predisposition. If you wish to understand why this is happening to you or some of your closest friends and family, it’s vital to talk about your past experiences, health concerns, hair treatments, medical use, etc to get to the bottom of the cause.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Female Hair Loss?
Below are some of the most common causes of female hair loss that might be affecting you.
Changes and imbalances in hormones
Hair loss can result from the shrinkage of hair follicles caused by hormones like androgens. If you’re pregnant, going through menopause, or struggling with PCOS, there’s a high chance that hormone imbalance is to blame.
Health issues and specific drugs
Drug abuse and regular consumption of certain medicines can lead to thyroid issues and infections. Talk with your healthcare provider about your current health status, any medications you are on, and if you should consider other alternative holistic approaches. In some cases, hair loss happens due to high blood pressure, anaemia, diabetes, as well as chemotherapy drugs.
Using hairstyling equipment and heat
Every lady loves those flawless Hollywood beach waves that look red-carpet-ready! However, over time, hair becomes weak and prone to damage, breakage & thinning with certain hair styling techniques. If you get your hair coloured regularly or if you get highlights or bleach on your hair; heads up, you are doing a lot of damage. The same rule applies to hair straighteners and curling wands. Remember – less is more, and your hair will thank you.
Excessive stress exposure
We are under stress all the time, and it can affect our emotional and physical selves. If you’re under a lot of stress constantly due to work, or external factors, chances are you might lose hair faster than others. Take a breather and try yoga or meditation to calm down. Invest some time in self-maintenance and reflect on your actions.
How To Diagnose Hair Loss?
Diagnosing hair loss involves a thorough examination of the scalp. The process may not be easy as the root cause of the problem needs to be determined. Here are some steps you should take:
- Consult a dermatologist – they often have insights and knowledge on the topic since they can assess the pattern and give appropriate medical treatment.
- Talk with your doctor – if the cause of your hair loss is some underlying medical issue, then you should consult your doctor. Your doctor will help you move in the right direction by getting all the results, bloodwork, and tests done in one go.
- Don’t be scared of surgeries or hair transplantations – in some severe cases, these might be the only solution, especially if your hair keeps shedding. Some doctors might perform pull tests, a specialised approach where the hair is gently tugged on, resulting in visible damage or signs of alopecia.
- Beauty salon treatments – if your case is not as severe, you can indulge in cosmetic procedures and beauty treatments for effective management. Your chosen provider will help you gain knowledge on the topic of supplements, LPL, and other hair growth-boosting treatments.
Are There Treatments For Female Hair Loss?
Addressing hair loss is about trying different remedies and solutions until you find the perfect one for yourself. Remember that your age, hair texture, and genetics will play a vital role in the outcome. Here are some treatments to explore:
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
This is an FDA-approved drug that stimulates hair growth in a short period. It’s not as easily accessible, so you might have to look around to get your hands on it.
Medications
Medications like spironolactone block the effects of androgens, reducing hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances. Always read the instructions, side effects, and any other information about your purchased drug before you use it.
Shampoos
Shampoos are simple products that can be very effective in certain cases. Sometimes, you need the right hair shampoo to combat sparse hairs and breakage. Shop for products that boost hair growth, maximise its full potential, give volume, and prevent breakage. Invest in your conditioner and hair masks while you’re at it.
Oral contraceptives
Oral contraceptives are not everyone’s cup of tea, but they can regulate hormones and help with PCOS. Once taken regularly, it can help women struggling with PCOS to experience healthy hair growth.
Yoga
Practices like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can minimise stress-induced hair loss. Whether you are an outdoor person or not, it is vital to keep yourself active and healthy, as well as constantly on the move. The lower the stress levels, the lower your cortisol is, resulting in a healthier body and thicker locks.
What Are Some Helpful Natural Remedies For Hair Loss: What You Can Do At Home To Treat Hair Loss
Drink green tea
Antioxidants in green tea combat free radicals and encourage the formation of healthy hair. Green tea helps your body relax, while a cup of cooled-down tea revitalises the scalp and helps with the regenerative properties of broken strands.
Try a scalp massage
Simple and very effective, scalp massage is perfect for hair loss and pesky headaches. Once you massage your scalp, you enhance the blood flow and circulation underneath the hair follicles. This revitalises the hair follicles and results in better hair growth. Do this two times a day when brushing your hair (morning and night), and ask your hairstylist for specialised haircare treatments with hands-on scalp massages.
Use essential oils
Healthy hair has always been supported by essential oils. These days, they are widely available in beauty stores and online. You can use rosemary, lavender, or rosehip oil for beautiful results. Massage it in and brush out with your hair brush to enjoy healthy strands.
Apply onion juice
We know onion juice might not be the best-smelling ingredient. But it is a powerful natural remedy for hair fall and the best part is, everyone will have an onion lying around at home! It is filled with sulfur, which boosts further collagen production. Apply a fresh onion for 15 minutes onto your scalp to enjoy its antimicrobial properties. Rinse out and finish off with your shampoo and conditioner.
Apply Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is good for your internal and external health. It is filled with enzymes that unblock hair follicles and promote new growth while removing dead skin cells and excess oil. Aloe Vera especially does wonders for oily hair and oily scalps. Aloe vera is a nutrient-dense superfood that helps the hair and scalp. It has enzymes that unblock hair follicles to promote the growth of new hair by removing dead skin cells and excess oil. Apply aloe vera gel on the hair and scalp for half an hour before taking a shower to achieve its benefits.
Hibiscus flower
Who doesn’t love flowers? A hibiscus flower, in particular, strengthens the hair follicles and helps to make hair shiny and nourished. Grind hibiscus flowers with water to create a paste and apply it to your scalp. Once it sits for 20 minutes, rinse it out and apply shampoo. You can also try this hair paste for hair loss at an affordable price if you don’t feel like creating one at home. The paste is natural and easy to use from the comfort of your home in less than seven steps!
Professional Salon Treatments For Hair Loss
Sometimes, it’s best to ask a professional for their help and input. Here is what a qualified team can do for you.
Hair analysis
As part of their hair loss treatments, several salons now provide sophisticated hair and scalp analyses. Thanks to their equipment, individuals can enjoy specialised treatments, catered to their preferences and troubled areas.
PRP – Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
PRP isn’t as scary as some of you may believe. The process is very straightforward, where a small blood sample is drawn from the body. The blood is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells. These platelets and plasma are then injected directly into your scalp. PRP will boost hair growth and promote the regeneration of hair follicles.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a process where different vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are injected into your scalp. These nutrients provide faster circulation and stop hair thinning, feeding your hair follicles from within.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy, also known as red light therapy, is a cutting-edge procedure that stimulates hair follicles and improves blood flow to the scalp by using laser or LED light. The non-invasive process increases hair density, strengthens existing hair, and encourages hair renewal.
Protein treatments
Keratin treatments can also help those who are experiencing hair loss, even though their main purpose is to strengthen and smooth hair. You can ask for keratin treatments at your next hair appointment. Keratin will strengthen your hair shaft and supply it with proteins from within.
Oxygen scalp therapy
Oxygen scalp therapy is a process by which pressurised oxygen is applied to your scalp through a machine for 30-40 minutes. After the procedure, you are left with lowered inflammation and revitalised hair follicles, as well as an overall hydrated scalp. Anyone with dandruff or psoriasis can also benefit from this procedure.
When to Seek Professional Help If You’re Losing Hair
Did you know it’s normal to lose 50-100 hair daily? Although this sounds like a lot, it’s not something you should be worried about. Natural factors and external factors can make an impact on your overall health, as well as your hair state. Keep a close eye on your hair texture. Ask yourself whether you’re experiencing patchiness, itchiness, redness, or discomfort all of a sudden. If yes, it’s best to talk with a specialist. Make sure you are proactive when solving this problem.
Hair loss can be linked to medical conditions like alopecia areata, thyroid problems, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. If you can’t solve the problem for more than 2-3 months on your own and with the help of natural remedies, it’s best to book an appointment with a dermatologist or trichologist. Treatments like PRP therapy, medications, or topical solutions like minoxidil may be recommended. Seeking help early can help you manage hair loss, prevent further damage, and explore options for regrowth, keeping your hair healthy and intact.
FAQs About Hair Loss
How much hair loss is considered normal?
Human beings lose 50 to 100 hair every day, and this is quite normal. If you experience more hair fall than this, it could be a sign of malnutrition or illness, as well as other underlying health-related concerns that must be evaluated.
How do lifestyle and medical history influence hair loss?
Poor lifestyle choices can lead to many health-related troubles. High levels of stress and sleep deprivation can lead to hair loss. Look at your hormone imbalances, thyroid issues, and genetics in your family to get a clear picture of the cause behind hair loss. An effective approach will manage hair loss from the get-go.
Can you reverse hair loss?
Yes, many types of hair loss can be treated or reversed if the cause is identified early. Treatments like minoxidil, PRP therapy, or addressing underlying health issues can help.
How can you know if the hair you lost is permanent?
Temporary hair loss usually disappears in a few months and frequently occurs after stressful situations, sickness, or childbirth. On the other hand, androgenetic alopecia is a type of permanent hair loss that worsens with time and may need medical treatment.
Can stress truly cause hair loss?
Indeed, stress can cause telogen effluvium, a condition in which hair prematurely enters the shedding phase. Hair loss can be lessened by using relaxation strategies to manage stress.
Are hair loss treatments safe to do during pregnancy?
It is not advised to use certain medications, such as minoxidil, while pregnant. However, natural and herbal treatments may be used during this period. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should always speak with a healthcare provider before beginning any treatment.
Can tight hairstyles cause hair loss?
Indeed, traction alopecia, a kind of hair loss brought on by severe strain on the hair follicles, can result from tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or buns. Avoid these hairstyles if you’re in danger of losing hair.
Having said all of that
Female hair loss shouldn’t be a taboo topic. It is not an irreversible condition, meaning everyone can enjoy gorgeous results as time goes on and your efforts pay off. By identifying the root cause and adopting a combination of medical, professional, and natural treatments, you can effectively manage hair fall and restore your hair. If you’re willing to invest some time you will see the results. Apply these tips and tricks, and reach out to a team of experts who know how to combat hair loss and hair thinning. Check out Two Herbs since they provide effective, natural hair treatment solutions in Singapore designed to restore your hair’s health and vitality. So, eager to give it a go?!
