Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women

A woman’s hair is her crowning glory. Whether straight or curly, dyed or not, and short or long, a woman’s hair is a form of self-expression. Unfortunately, women are not exempt from experiencing hair loss. If you see a lot of hair on the floor or in your hairbrush, you should consider undergoing a hair evaluation.

Here are common causes of hair loss in women.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Alopecia, typically linked to men, is a non-contagious condition in which a person experiences hair loss. Women can also experience androgenetic alopecia. A family history of this condition increases your risk of developing it.

Unlike men who experience a receding hairline or complete baldness, this condition commonly causes overall thinning of hair in women and rarely leads to total baldness.

Menopause

Women commonly experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. During this period, a woman’s body undergoes biological changes, including fluctuating hormone levels. According to research, a woman in her menopausal years produces low levels of estrogen and progesterone – lower than optimal levels necessary for hair to grow as it should.

Low levels of estrogen and progesterone result in slow and weaker production of hair. Moreover, the decrease in these hormones triggers an increase in the production of male hormones called androgens. High levels of androgens result in shrinking hair follicles and hair loss.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a unique biological process that women experience. As a baby develops in the mother’s womb, several hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body. Estrogen levels are typically higher, which means you’ll have fuller and thicker hair growth.

However, after childbirth, a woman’s estrogen levels will start to decrease. This hormonal shift, together with pregnancy-induced stress, may cause thinning. Generally, women experience postpartum hair loss 2 to 4 months after pregnancy and it lasts for about six months.

Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency or anemia is also linked to hair loss, and women are more likely to develop anemia for two reasons: menstrual periods and pregnancy. Women lose blood during their periods. The risk of anemia increases if your periods are particularly heavy or last long. Without enough iron, the oxygen supply for cells that maintain hair growth may not be enough.

Pregnant women are also at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant women need twice the amount of iron for the baby’s blood and oxygen. This condition may be more common for pregnancies that are closely spaced, involve twins, or those with severe morning sickness. Fortunately, hair loss due to iron deficiency is only temporary. You can supplement your body with appropriate vitamins and a proper diet with the guidance of a doctor.

Hairstyles and Treatments

Women tend to style their hair more often than men, which puts them at a higher risk for traumatic alopecia. Hair treatments and procedures often expose a woman’s hair to extreme heat or strong chemicals. As you curl or straighten your hair using hot tools, it tends to become more brittle, resulting in breakage. Dying your hair using artificial chemicals can harm not only your hair but also your scalp, which can result in weaker hair growth.

Aside from styling and treatments, hair trauma can also result from vigorous brushing, extreme tugging, or compulsive hair pulling. To avoid hair fall, make sure to be gentle when you manage your hair.

Hair Loss Treatment in Missouri

If you are experiencing hair loss and want to prevent it from happening, visit Darling Hair Restoration. Hair transplant surgeon Dr. Scott Darling is happy to provide you with the best hair restoration treatments and procedures available in Kansas City, Des Moines, and Liberty, Missouri. Our diagnostic tests and advanced treatments are specially designed to cater to any hair loss situation.

Schedule a consultation with us by calling (816) 792-3400 or booking an appointment online. Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you soon!