Hair Loss in Women

Most people think that thinning hair is a male problem. The truth is that about 2/3 of women experience hair loss at some point in their lives. One difference is that women don't usually have a complete loss of hair, as opposed to men.

Hair Loss and Estrogen

Estrogen and hair growth is not completely clear. Sometimes physicians prescribe topical and oral versions of the hormone to women with hair loss, although the scientific evidence for this is lacking.

If women choose to use oral contaceptives they should select one with little to no androgenic activity. Some examples are norgestimate and ethynodiol diacetate. Androgen precursors such as DHEA should also be avoided.

Androgenetic Alopecia

This is also known as male pattern baldness among men. It starts at the front of the scalp and gradually works its way back. Women, on the other hand, tend to have more uniform hair thinning. If you have polcystic ovarian syndrome, then androgenetic alopecia may be a side-effect.

Hair Treatments

Harsh hair treatments and/or hairstyles can cause hair loss if administered incorrectly or much too often. Dyes, bleaches, straighteners or waves are generally safe, but care should be taken with who and how often they are done. If hair is overteated with chemicals they can become inflamed or scarred. Certain hairstyles like cornrows can cause traction alopecia. It can be permanent depending on the extent of the damage.

Nutrition

Diets too low in calories or eating disorders can cause hair loss. Anorexia and bulimia can prevent the hair follicles from growing. This usually is the case if inadequate nutrition(e.g. Protein,Vitamins,Minerals) takes place for too long. The body will start to cease any bodily funtions it deems uneccessary, as with hair growth.

Pregnancy

It is very common for women to lose hair during pregnancy. The unusually high levels of hormones causes hair to be retained until after birth. It isn't usually apparent until about 2 months afterward when hair seems to fall out in clumps. It is usually only temporary, and will take a month or two for normal growth to be seen.

Disease

Many diseases known to humans can cause hair loss. Surgery is also on the list with disease to cause hair loss.

Some of the more common illnesses include:

• lupus
• anemia(iron deficiency)
• thyroid disease
• a severe infection