10 Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women and How to Address Them

August 9, 2024

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

243

A men showing his bald head

Are you experiencing sudden hair loss? It is normal for women to lose 50–100 strands a day. It is a common concern for many women, impacting their self-esteem. Unlike men, who often experience a receding hairline or bald spots, women typically encounter hair thinning across the scalp. Understanding the underlying causes and effective treatments for hair loss in women is essential for managing and reversing this condition. This blog will help you to understand the cause and regain a healthy, full head of hair.

Before exploring the various causes of sudden hair loss in women, let’s understand the hair growth cycle.

Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle

The hair growth cycle consists of three phases, which include:

  • Growth phase (Anagen): The Anagen phase is the active phase of the hair growth cycle. During this phase, hair follicles are actively producing new hair cells, resulting in hair growth. This phase can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years, depending on genetics and individual health.
  • Transition phase (Catagen): The Catagen phase is a short transitional phase where the hair follicles go through a period of rest. During this phase, hair stops growing, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. This stage usually lasts between 2 and 3 weeks.
  • Resting phase (Telogen): The telogen phase is the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. During this phase, hair naturally sheds, and new hair begins to grow. This phase lasts around 3 months. After the telogen phase, the cycle repeats, with the anagen phase starting again.

Hair loss occurs when the growth cycle is disrupted, leading to excessive shedding or a decrease in hair growth.

Must Read: Hairloss: Understanding Types, Causes and Treatments

Hair loss in women

Hair loss in women, or female pattern hair loss, can be attributed to various factors, both internal and external. Unlike men, who often lose hair in specific patterns, women typically experience diffuse thinning across the scalp. Recognising the signs and seeking early intervention is crucial for effective treatment.

Signs of Hair Loss in Women

  • Thinning on Top of the Head: The most common pattern of hair loss in women is a broadening part or thinning on the crown.
  • Bald Patches: Some women may experience circular or patchy bald spots.
  • Widening Part: Noticeable widening of the part in the hair.
  • Thinning Ponytail: A noticeable reduction in the volume of the ponytail.

10 Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women

Here is a list of 10 sudden causes of hair loss in women:

Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels throughout a woman’s life can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to temporary or permanent hormonal hair loss. Some common hormonal triggers include:

  • Pregnancy and Postpartum: During pregnancy, increased estrogen levels promote hair growth. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop rapidly, leading to shedding (telogen effluvium) within 3–6 months. This condition is often temporary, and hair growth generally resumes its normal pattern within a year.
  • Menopause: Declining estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause can contribute to hair thinning and a shift in hair growth patterns.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal imbalance can cause excess androgen production, leading to hair loss along with other symptoms like irregular periods and acne.
  • Birth Control Pills: Certain birth control pills containing high levels of progesterone can cause temporary hair loss in some women.

Genetics

A family history of hair loss can increase the likelihood of experiencing hair thinning or baldness. Female-pattern hair loss is often inherited and can begin as early as puberty.

Stress

Chronic or severe stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to telogen effluvium. When under stress, the body diverts resources away from hair growth, causing hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting phase and shed hair.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin, and protein, can contribute to hair loss and thinning. These nutrients are essential for hair growth, and a balanced diet is crucial for healthy growth.

Medical Conditions

Some underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, can cause hair loss. These conditions often result in patchy hair loss or complete baldness. In these cases, treating the underlying condition is crucial for addressing hair loss.

Medications

Certain medications for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss as a side effect.

Hairstyling practices

Tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp for extended periods (traction alopecia) and frequent use of heat styling tools or chemical treatments can damage hair and contribute to breakage and hair loss.

Scalp Infections

Fungal infections, such as ringworm, can attack the scalp and cause hair loss. Symptoms include scaly patches, redness, and inflammation.

Aging

As women age, their hair naturally thins, and their growth rate slows. Post-menopausal women may experience more pronounced hair thinning due to hormonal changes.

Crash Dieting and Rapid Weight Loss

Rapid weight loss can put stress on the body, leading to temporary hair loss.

Understanding the underlying causes of sudden hair loss in women is crucial for finding effective solutions.

Effective Hair Loss Treatments at the Evenly Clinic

At Evenly Clinic, we offer advanced, FDA-proven treatments to address sudden hair loss in women. Our personalised approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective treatment based on their unique condition.

Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC)

This minimally invasive treatment involves extracting growth factors from the patient’s blood, concentrating them, and injecting them into the scalp. These growth factors stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth and improving hair density.

Benefits of GFC Treatment:

  • Stimulates natural hair growth
  • Increases hair density and thickness
  • Improves overall scalp health

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment

PRP treatment is another innovative approach that utilises your body’s own healing potential. Similar to GFC, PRP involves extracting platelet-rich plasma from patients’s blood and injecting it using tiny needles. The platelets contain growth factors that promote healing and regeneration in the hair follicles.

Benefits of PRP Treatment:

  • Promotes hair follicle regeneration
  • Enhances hair thickness and strength
  • Safe and minimally invasive

Benefits of the Evenly Clinic’s Hair Loss Treatments for Women

  • Minimally invasive procedures: Both GFC and PRP treatments are minimally invasive procedures with minimal downtime.
  • Natural approach: These treatments leverage your body’s natural healing potential, minimising the risk of side effects associated with traditional medications.
  • Targeted treatment: GFC and PRP injections can be precisely targeted to the areas of hair loss, maximising their effectiveness.
  • Promotes hair growth: Many of our patients experienced positive results in promoting hair regrowth and improving hair density.
  • Safe and effective: GFC and PRP treatments are considered safe and effective options for treating hair loss in women when performed by experienced dermatologists at Evenly.

Must Read: Comprehensive Guide to Hair Treatments for Hair Growth and Repair

Before and After images of Evenly’s hair loss treatment

Check out the before and after images of our clients who experienced great results after taking hair loss treatment.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations to Manage Sudden Hair Loss in Women

In addition to the above treatments, incorporating a healthy lifestyle and dietary recommendations can significantly support hair growth and overall scalp health:

  • Maintain a balanced diet: Ensure your diet is rich in essential nutrients for hair growth, including iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein. Consider consulting a nutritionist to create a personalised dietary plan.
  • Manage stress: Chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle Engage in stress-management activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Gentle hair care: Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp and minimise heat styling or harsh chemical treatments. Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
  • Adequate sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to hair loss.

Why Evenly for women hair loss treatments?

  • Our team comprises board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating hair loss in women.
  • We stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in hair restoration treatments to provide you with the most effective and evidence-based solutions.
  • We tailor treatment plans specifically for women, considering factors like hormonal fluctuations, scalp health, and overall well-being.
  • All our hair loss treatments are performed under stringent protocols and have proven safety records.
  • Many of our patients achieved visible results and regained healthy hair.
  • We gained a 98% satisfaction rate from our beloved customers.
  • Our clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art architecture, top-notch amenities, and USFDA-approved equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Hair loss in women can be distressing, but understanding the causes and seeking effective treatments can significantly improve the condition. At Evenly Clinic, we offer a range of advanced hair loss treatments tailored to meet individual needs. Whether you are experiencing hair thinning, bald patches, hormonal hair loss, or diffuse hair loss, our team of expert dermatologists is here to help you achieve healthier, fuller hair.

If you are struggling with hair loss, don’t wait any longer. Schedule an appointment with Evenly Clinic today. Our personalised approach and state-of-the-art treatments ensure that you receive the best care possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many types of hair loss can be managed and sometimes reversed with appropriate treatment. Early intervention and consultation with a dermatologist are crucial.

Hair loss in women can be caused by hormonal changes, genetics, stress, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, medications, hairstyling practices, scalp infections, aging, and chemical exposure.

Common signs include thinning on top of the head, bald patches, a widening part, and a thinning ponytail.

GFC treatments can be highly effective in reversing sudden hair loss by stimulating hair follicles and promoting new hair growth. However, its effectiveness depends on the underlying cause of the hair loss. It is best to consult a dermatologist for a personalised assessment.

Yes, hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues, can cause hair loss. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) also lead to hormonal imbalances that affect hair growth.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

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