Female Pattern Hair Loss (Baldness): Causes & Treatment
Alopecia, or hair loss, affects about one-third of women at some point in their life; among postmenopausal women, this number can reach up to two-thirds. Because it's less socially acceptable for women, hair loss frequently has a greater impact on them than it does on males. The emotional health and quality of life of a woman can be significantly impacted by alopecia1.
Similar to males, ladies experience the same type of hair loss that men do. Androgenetic alopecia, also referred to as female (or male) pattern baldness, is the term for it. In men, the hair on top of the head thins as well, frequently resulting in baldness. Men's hair loss normally begins above the temples, and as it progresses, the hairline gradually recedes until it assumes the recognizable "M" shape. Hair loss that extends outward from the top of the head in women with androgenetic alopecia begins with a gradual thinning at the part line. Women rarely lose their hair or have their hairlines recede2.
Causes of Female Pattern Baldness3
Each hair strand rests in a follicle, a small opening in the skin. In most cases, baldness results from the hair follicle shrinking over time, which produces shorter and finer hair. At some point, the follicle stops producing new hair. It appears that it is still possible to generate new hair because the follicles are still alive.
Although the cause of female pattern baldness is not fully understood, it could be linked to:
Aging
Alterations in the levels of androgens (hormones that can stimulate the development of masculine characteristics)
Genealogical history
Significant blood loss during menstruation
Various medications, including estrogenic oral contraceptives
Treatments for Female Pattern Baldness
The most popular kind of treatment for female hair loss is medication. These are a few of them:
Minoxidil4:
This medication was first made available as a treatment for high blood pressure, but some who used it observed that it caused their hair to regrow in areas where it had previously fallen out. Studies have shown that minoxidil can promote hair growth when applied directly to the scalp. The trials led to the FDA's initial approval of 2% over-the-counter minoxidil to treat female pattern baldness. One solution that is of great benefit to promoting hair growth is Regaine® for women regular strength solution. Regaine® with its active ingredient reverses follicle miniaturization, boosts blood circulation around follicles, promotes follicle migration from the dormant to the growing phase of the hair, and extends the development phase of each follicle.Obviously, minoxidil is not a cure-all medication. While some women—but not all—can see some new growth of fine hair, it cannot replace the lost hair's entire density. For ladies who are experiencing hair loss, there is no quick fix. Before using the medication for at least two months, you won't observe any outcomes. Plan on a trial of six to twelve months because the effect typically peaks at roughly four months, though it could take longer. If minoxidil is effective for you, you must continue using it to keep the results. You'll start losing hair again if you quit.
You can benefit from Regaine® for women regular strength solution to help with hair loss. This product from Regaine® contains the active ingredient, Minoxidil, is scientifically and clinically proven, and has reported results in 32 weeks!
Anti-androgens5
Androgens, which include testosterone and other "male" hormones, can hasten the thinning of women's hair. For the treatment of androgenic alopecia, some women who do not respond to minoxidil may benefit from the inclusion of the anti-androgen medication spironolactone (Aldactone). This is particularly true for PCOS-affected women who tend to produce an excess of androgens. For women of reproductive age, doctors would typically prescribe spironolactone along with an oral contraceptive.Iron Supplements6
Some women's hair loss may be caused by an iron shortage. For instance, if you are a vegetarian, have a history of anemia, or experience excessive menstrual bleeding, your doctor may decide to check your blood iron levels. You will need to take a supplement if you do have an iron deficiency, and this might stop your hair loss. However, taking more iron will only have negative side effects, including upset stomach and constipation if your iron level is normal.Hair Transplant
A strip of the scalp is cut from the back of the head and used to cover a bald spot as part of the hair transplant procedure to treat androgenic alopecia. The process involves the removal of a small section of the scalp, which is then divided into hundreds of microscopic grafts, each having only a few hairs. Each graft is placed in the area of the scalp where hair is absent through an incision made by a blade or needle. Follicular units, or small groups of one to four follicles, are how hair grows in nature. Consequently, the graft looks better than the bulkier "plugs" connected to hair transplants in the past.
Prevention of Female Pattern Baldness
When hair loss is brought on by illness, aging, hereditary, or physical stressors like injuries, it is impossible to prevent. You can stop hair loss brought on by caustic chemicals or tight hairstyles by avoiding them. By eating a nutritious diet that contains the required elements in the form of vitamins, minerals, and protein, you may be able to stop some hair loss. Quitting smoking can also contribute to preventing hair loss.
In conclusion, whether it results from stress, illness, or heredity, hair loss can be upsetting. Know that you have options for treatments and that knowledgeable dermatologists are available to assist you. There may be a way to stop losing your hair. As soon as you suspect a problem, consult a healthcare professional since the sooner you begin treatment, the better.
