What Causes Hair Loss for Women? 4 Main Factors
Research shows that 80% of women say that their hair influences
their personal outlook and confidence. Yet for the millions of women who
struggle with hair loss, a thinning mane can trigger embarrassment and
insecurity.
If you're dealing with hair loss as a
woman, understanding the cause can help you find the right solutions to achieve
a full head of hair once again.
Read on to learn what causes hair loss for
women and what treatments are available.
1. Alopecia
Alopecia is the medical term for excessive
hair loss, and it's often linked to genetics, aging, and chronic medical
conditions. Essentially, most hair loss that is ongoing or due to biological
factors alone (as opposed to lifestyle or environmental factors) is considered
alopecia.
For some people with alopecia, the hair
follicles can shrink, causing hair loss and blocking regrowth. Treatments like this PRP treatment for hair loss in women can
restart hair follicle activity.
2. Stress and Illness
Hair loss in women can, in many cases, be
caused by bouts of stress and illness.
Mental stress, such as experiencing a
difficult life event, can lead to short-term hair loss in women. Similarly,
physical stress to the body from a high fever, surgery, or fluctuating hormones
can also trigger hair loss.
In both instances, hair is pushed into the
resting phase of the hair growth cycle, stopping healthy hair from continuing
to grow. This can then lead to hair shedding.
As you recover from the stressful event or
medical condition, hair will eventually regrow. However, it may take several
months, so it's important to be patient and continue keeping your mind and body
as healthy as possible.
3. Tight Hairstyles
You may love high ponytails or tight
braids, but these hairstyles can actually trigger hair loss.
When the hair is pulled and yanked on too
often and for too long, it may break, leading to hair thinning and bald spots.
Warning signs to look for include bumps on the scalp, redness, itchiness, and
soreness.
After these initial symptoms, you may then
start to notice hair loss on the areas where hair is pulled back the tightest.
In some cases, repeatedly wearing tight hairstyles can lead to permanent hair
loss.
The best course of action is to stop
wearing tight hairstyles. That way, the hair follicles can rest and regrow lost
hair.
4. Poor Diet
Hair, just like the rest of the body,
needs certain nutrients to grow and stay healthy. But a poor diet can get in
the way, triggering hair loss in women.
Women who are trying to lose weight fast,
avoid certain food groups, or are struggling with an eating disorder may be at
risk of hair loss, along with other health issues.
Be sure to incorporate plenty of proteins,
biotin-rich foods, vitamin-packed fruits and vegetables, and foods containing
healthy fats to support hair growth.
What Causes Hair Loss for Women?
Hair loss can crush your confidence, but
what causes hair loss for women? There are a variety of factors, from medical
illnesses to the food you eat. Determine if one of the four causes discussed
here may be the reason for your hair loss, and talk to your doctor if your hair
doesn't start growing back within a few months.
For more beauty tips, check out our latest
posts!