While more common in men, hair loss an occur in both genders. Unfortunately, women with thinning or balding hair suffer a much greater hit to their self-esteem than men. For men, hair loss due to aging is common and much more accepted. For women, a full head of healthy hair is a sign of beauty and has remained a desirable trait for females through the decades.
Since female hair loss is less discussed, women who experience alopecia or thinning hair can face substantial societal pressure. They may even resort to covering up their hair loss with wigs or certain hairstyles instead of seeking professional treatment. At Olanksy Dermatology, we help women discover the underlying cause of their hair loss so that we can implement an effective treatment plan. There are a wide variety of solutions available, but it is imperative to reveal the primary culprit to hair loss first.
For women, hair loss can be traced back to a number of factors, ranging from certain health conditions to family history or even your hairstyling habits. If you are noticing an increasing amount of hair on your brush or in the shower drain, one of the following reasons for female hair loss may be to blame:
- Hormones – Hormone imbalance is a leading cause of female hair loss. When estrogen and testosterone levels are off, you may grow and shed hair at an abnormal pace. You will likely suffer from skin problems as well. Hormone imbalance can occur in women of all ages due to pregnancy, PCOS, menopause and post-partum.
- Anemia – Research shows a strong link between iron deficiency and hair loss in women. If you are experiencing hair loss and suffer from fatigue, it may be time to get tested for anemia.
- Rapid Weight Loss – Hair loss can also occur from a sudden crash diet or abrupt restriction in calories. Just like other parts of your body, the function and growth of your hair relies on proper nutrition.
- Stress and Anxiety – Never underestimate the power that the mind has over the body. Psychological problems, especially stress and anxiety, are known for manifesting themselves in physical ways. Hair loss is among them. Stress can cause some women to actually pull out their hair, while others may experience alopecia areata, a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy hair follicles.
- Family History – You may have to blame genetics on your hair loss. Take a closer look at your mother, aunt, sisters or grandmother. If they suffered from female pattern hair loss, you are at a greater risk yourself. This is referred to as androgenetic alopecia, where the hair follicles themselves shrink over time. Women in their late 50’s and 60’s are more likely to suffer from this type of hair loss.
- Aggressive Styling Habits – There are lots of ways we style our hair and numerous products we use to achieve that ideal look. Unfortunately, excessive styling and hair coloring can backfire and cause hair loss if you aren’t careful. This occurs when the hair becomes weak and brittle and actually breaks. Everything from tight braids and ponytails to curling irons and hair dyes can lead to this problem
If you are a woman dealing with hair loss, we understand how difficult it is. At Olansky Dermatology, we offer a wide variety of effective treatment options for female hair loss or alopecia. A simple office visit and discussion with one of our physicians can be the first step towards a full and confident head of hair.
