What Is The Main Reason For Female Hair Loss?

Hair loss patterns differ between men and women. In men, hair loss typically manifests as a receding hairline on the top and front of the scalp. Meanwhile, women are more likely to experience hair loss in the mid-frontal and top areas of the scalp. Telogen effluvium is another cause of hair loss in women and is a temporary condition that occurs after the body experiences a shock.

As a woman, it's normal to shed around 150 strands of hair daily. However, if you notice excessive hair loss, it could be due to telogen effluvium, a type of temporary hair loss triggered by certain factors, or androgenic alopecia, which is typically inherited.

Genetic factors, illnesses, and imbalanced vitamin levels can cause female hair thinning. Understanding these common causes of hair loss and the treatments available to address them is essential.

How Does Genetics Affect Hair Loss?

Studies indicate that genetic factors play a role in classic female pattern baldness. Thin hair is often caused by androgenic alopecia, a common hereditary condition. While males tend to experience near-complete hair loss due to androgenic alopecia, females rarely experience total hair loss. Instead, women usually notice localized hair thinning around the crown of their head, which can spread outward and result in the broader part.

Additional research is required to understand the relationship between genetics and hair loss in females. Nonetheless, if female pattern hair loss runs in your family, you may also develop it.

What Illnesses Cause Hair Loss in Women?

Various factors can cause temporary hair loss; one of the most frequent causes is severe illness. Telogen odour has been associated with Covid-19, which is an infectious disease. Physical conditions like lupus, kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease could also lead to temporary hair loss. Hair loss of this type may also occur following childbirth or after discontinuing certain medications, such as prednisone or the birth control pill.

Telogen effluvium can be caused by mental illnesses, not just physical illnesses. When someone experiences moderate to severe mental illness, it can lead to extreme emotional stress. This stress can be so severe that it shocks the body and may contribute to temporary hair loss.

Hair loss or baldness can occur in individuals with anxiety disorders due to hair-pulling. Trichotillomania is characterized by compulsive hair-pulling due to severe anxiety or stress. Those with this disorder may use this behaviour as a means of coping.

Can Vitamin Deficiencies Or Surpluses Cause Hair Loss?

Your diet can influence the quality and fullness of your hair. Women may experience hair loss due to a lack or excess of certain vitamins. To prevent hair thinning, it's essential to be aware of common vitamin deficiencies or surpluses that can contribute to this issue.

Vitamin D

This particular vitamin plays a vital part in the hair growth cycle, and ongoing research explores its connection to hair loss in more depth. Insufficient Vitamin D levels could be associated with conditions like androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata—an autoimmune disorder causing hair loss. Regrettably, approximately 35% of adults in the United States are affected by a shortage of Vitamin D.

Vitamin A

Brittle hair and weak follicles can develop when there is a deficiency in vitamin A. Dryness of the scalp can also result from vitamin A deficiency, which can worsen hair thinning. However, an excess of vitamin A, called hypervitaminosis A, can cause hair loss. Consuming more vitamin A-rich foods, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, is recommended rather than taking vitamin A supplements.

Is Hair Loss Reversible?

As a woman experiencing hair loss, options are available to reverse the condition potentially. Hair loss treatments have been effective for many women in restoring their hair. If the issue persists, lifestyle and dietary changes may be helpful, such as addressing nutritional deficiencies, seeking counselling, or reducing stress. It's important to avoid harsh chemical or heat-based hair treatments while attempting to regrow your hair.

What Is The Best Treatment For Hair Loss? 

Temporary hair loss can often go away without intervention, but certain types may need treatment. Some common causes of female hair loss can be addressed with over-the-counter remedies. One of the most successful topical options for treating female pattern hair loss is Minoxidil, available in topical and oral forms.

Clinical studies have shown that applying 5% Minoxidil has been effective in increasing hair count in the specific area of focus as opposed to a placebo. Ladies looking to restore their hair after experiencing hair loss may benefit from Minoxidil topical solution.

Additional oral treatment options are available, such as spironolactone and dutasteride. These medications are antiandrogens designed to hinder the effects of androgen hormones, such as testosterone. Although not officially approved for female hair loss, dermatologists may use them off-label to assist with androgenetic alopecia.

Get Treatment For Your Hair Loss Needs

To effectively address female hair loss, contacting a reliable medical practitioner who can suggest suitable treatment options is essential. Identifying the underlying cause of your hair loss should be the initial step toward finding a solution. With the guidance of a medical expert, you can make informed decisions and obtain the answers to any queries you may have. Mobi Doctor is available to assist. You can consult with a qualified professional and receive online support.