What Causes Hair Loss in Women?

Hair loss in women is more prevalent than many people realize, which is perhaps why it is not discussed as often as it is for men. At International Hair Institute Chicago, our team of experts have helped many women to restore thicker, fuller hair, boosting their confidence and allowing them to feel more feminine. In this blog, we discuss some of the common causes of hair loss that may warrant treatment (or in some cases lifestyle adjustments) later.

Genetics

The most common cause of hair loss in women is androgenetic alopecia (also known as pattern baldness), a hereditary condition that is the same leading culprit for men. Whereas men develop a receding hairline or bald patch at the top of their heads, women are more likely to notice their hair get progressively thinner with a more exaggerated part developing at the middle.

Hormone Fluctuation

A woman’s hormone balance can shift at various stages in her life, especially during menopause. As the body’s natural production of estrogen declines, a woman’s hair can become increasingly thin. Hormone fluctuations are also common during pregnancy, but women that lose hair during this period usually regain it naturally a few months after delivering their child.

Stress

Anxiety has been proven to interrupt women’s hair growth. If stress triggers many follicles to enter a resting phase simultaneously, this means that they will all shed around the same time a few months later. Fortunately, it is usually possible to see this hair grow back if the stress is adequately addressed.

Improper Nutrition

A diet that is deficient in vitamins and minerals can provoke unwanted hair loss. A lack of vitamin D is most closely linked to hair loss, but vitamin B2, vitamin B12, zinc, and iron have also been found helpful in promoting healthy hair growth.

The Way Hair Is Treated/Worn

Hair that is frequently worn in tight hairstyles (like ponytails) can damage the follicles and cause irreversible damage. So can certain hair care treatments like straighteners that use heat to treat the hair. Women should also beware of hair products with chemicals that can damage hair.

Medical Conditions

A variety of other medical conditions may contribute to hair loss, including:

• Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Lupus
• Vitiligo
• Psoriasis
• Ringworm
• Celiac disease
• Addison’s disease
• Thyroid disease

 Cancer patients may also experience hair loss as a side effect of chemotherapy treatment. 

Schedule a Consultation

No matter the cause of your hair loss, our hair restoration professionals would love to help. If you are a woman with significantly thinning hair, schedule a consultation to learn more about your treatment options by calling (312) 854-3898.