According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs each day.
If you notice that you’re losing more hairs than that each day, you may be struggling with women’s hair loss.
But what causes it, and how do you prevent it? Keep reading to find the complete hair loss guide for women.
What is Hair Loss in Women?
Hair loss in women is a concern when you are losing large patches of hair or you notice your hair suddenly thinning out.
In general, moderate hair shedding is a normal part of the cycle, and this cycle can vary depending on your hormones at the time. However, if the balance is interrupted, then your hair starts falling out without having new ones to come in and replace it.
The medical term is called “alopecia.”
You may also notice that your hair is falling out on areas other than your head. For example, you may notice that you don’t have hair on your eyelids, arms, or legs anymore.
If you suddenly notice this, find bald patches on your head, or brush out clumps of hair, make sure that you contact your doctor as soon as possible.
What Causes It?
There are a few different things that could end up causing female pattern baldness. It could be a side effect of a new drug that you’re taking.
Some drugs that are known to cause hair loss include beta-blockers, levodopa, chemotherapy, and lithium. But before you stop taking anything, consult with your doctor.
Sometimes medical illnesses can cause it as well. For example, thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, syphilis, and lupus erythematosus have been known to cause hair loss.
You could also have tinea capitis. This is a fungal infection that grows on your scalp. It can cause patchy hair loss as the fungi feed on the skin of your scalp.
While doing that, it will cause your hair to break off, and your scalp will be even flakier or more scaly than usual. This is also common in children as well.
Some people also have autoimmune disorders that cause their hair to fall out in small patches. This disease is called alopecia areata, and doctors don’t know how it starts.
However, there are many more causes that could be affecting your hair loss. Even something as simple as chronic stress or genes could cause your hair to start falling out, so make sure you call your doctor to let them know.
Signs to Watch For
Sometimes the symptoms of hair loss will show up suddenly, but sometimes they may be more gradual. It can be difficult to tell what’s hair loss after you brush your hair, but here are a few things to watch out for.
You might notice patchy or circular bald spots on your head. Sometimes, the hair loss will also start at your temples or the crown of your head and work its way back.
In men, they may get a receding hairline, but women might have a gradual thinning on the top of their heads instead. They may also grab handfuls of their hair when they’re washing it or brushing it.
Some people also develop scales when they lose their hair. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor as soon as possible.
How to Prevent It
While you should always follow your doctor’s treatment plan, there are a few ways to try and prevent hair loss. Keep in mind though that not all hair loss is preventable.
To start with, make sure that you’re always protecting your hair from the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. If the hair and skin is exposed to these rays too much, it can damage, discolor, and thin your hair.
If you smoke, you should also try and quit. Some studies suggest that there is a link between smoking and losing your hair.
You should also make sure that you’re eating a healthy diet and drinking enough water. Eat a diet that is high in protein, iron, and vitamins. Your doctor may also order a bloodwork test to see if you are deficient in any of these areas.
You should also be careful when you’re washing, styling, and brushing your hair. Heating products like rollers, flat irons, or blow dryers can actually damage your air and cause it to fall out if you use it repeatedly. If you do need to use these heating products, buy some heating sealant and apply that first before you work on your hair.
You should avoid putting your hair in a tight ponytail or bun as well. This will pull on the hair and pull it loose from your scalp.
Some women also take synthetic estrogen to help with their hair loss. This estrogen helps to make sure that the woman has enough estrogen in their body to keep their hair in place. Many pregnant women who have fluctuating hormones could sometimes take this to minimize hair loss during pregnancy, but make sure you speak with your doctor.
Learn More About Women’s Hair Loss
These are only a few things to know about women’s hair loss, but there are many more things to know.
We know that dealing with hair falling out can be stressful, but we’re here to help you out.
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