There are many causes why your hair may be falling out. It doesn’t matter if it’s temporary, reversible or permanent, there are solutions to consider that could aid.
The first step is to set up an appointment with a physician to identify the root of the losing hair.
We’ll review some of the common, conventional and alternative treatments that are available for treating hair loss in women.
Female pattern hair loss?
Female pattern baldness often referred to as androgenetic alopecia which is a loss of hair that is primarily affects women. It’s like male pattern hair loss but women may lose hair in a different way than males.
If you’re experiencing female-pattern hair loss, you’re not the only one. Based on the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), this condition affects around 33 percent of women who are at greater risk of developing the condition.
Loss of hair in women is a common occurrence particularly as you get older the majority of women experience hair loss post-menopausal. More than half of the Trusted Source of women who are 65 and above are likely to experience some form of loss of hair.
In female pattern baldness, the growth of hair is slowed down. It can take longer for hair that is growing to begin to grow. Hair follicles shrink and cause the hair that grows to become thinner and coarser. This could result in hair that breaks easily.
Read More: LA FUE hair clinic Los Angeles surgery
Female pattern baldness can be inherited. It’s also more frequent in women who are menopausal, which means hormones could be the cause. If you’re experiencing losing hair, you need to consult your physician or a dermatologist. They’ll be able to determine if you’re suffering from female pattern baldness or a different kind of hair loss due to other causes.
Common symptoms
- gradually thinning of hair on the top of the hair
- Hair loosens suddenly
- hair with patches of bald spots
Possible causes
- Genetics. Women may inherit the gene responsible for pattern baldness either from their parents or siblings.
- Hormones. Female pattern baldness is typically seen after menopausal changes and may be seen during pregnancy as well.
- The underlying health condition. A condition that is endocrine-related or tumour that secretes hormones can cause female pattern hair loss.
Types of Alopecia
- Androgenetic Alopecia is female-specific hair loss or baldness due to genetics. It is the most common reason of loss of hair in women and typically occurs between 12-40 years old. Men are more likely to see the loss of hair as receding hairline as well as specific spots of baldness but women’s loss of hair appears more like general thinning.
- Alopecia areata is the loss of hair on the scalp that is sudden either on the body or the head. It usually begins with one or more circular hair loss patches which may or may not cross.
- Cicatricial Alopecia is one of the diseases that can cause irreparable loss of hair through scarring. Hair is shed and the hair follicle gets replaced by scar tissue.
- Traumatic Alopecia causes hair loss as a result of hair styling techniques. The hair shaft could break when using blow dryers, hot combs and straighteners or other chemicals used to dye or straighten hair.
Treatments for hair loss for women
There are numerous options to treat hair loss that is caused by female pattern hair loss and various other forms of alopecia. Talk with your physician about the best option for you. Treatments include topical medication like Rogaine. Other treatments can include hormone treatment, light therapy or , in certain cases hair transplants. It is possible to require one or more treatments for a period of months or even years before seeing the full outcomes.
The loss of hair caused by hormonal changes such as menopausal changes, pregnancy or menopausal or stress might need no treatment. In fact, the loss is likely to disappear on its own as the body has adjusted.
Deficiency in nutrient intake can be treated by changing the diet, or the use of supplements, and under the supervision of a registered dietitian. A doctor’s guidance is required if the problem is the result of an underlying medical issue.
Any medical condition that leads to loss of hair must be addressed immediately to treat the whole condition, not just the symptoms.
Minoxidil Topical Solution
Minoxidil, also called Rogaine is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is suitable for those suffering from Alopecia areata, or androgenic alopecia. Rogaine can only be used for specific kinds of baldness, and only if you are consistent with its use, however, it’s not for all people.
The drug is endorsed by FDA. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is available in liquid or foam forms and is applied to the scalp every day. It could cause more hair loss in the beginning and the new growth could be thinner and shorter than the ones that came before. It is also possible to keep it on for at least 6 months to avoid further loss and to encourage growth.
Common side effects include:
- scalp irritation
- hair growth on the other parts of the hands or face that is in contact with the medication.
- Tachycardia ( rapid heart rate)
Rogaine is not a good choice Rogaine If:
- There is no hair loss history in your family.
- The loss of your hair happens abruptly and then is shed in areas.
- You’re not yet 18 years old.
- The hair is red, itchy or itchy You may have developed an infection on your scalp.
- The loss of your hair is due to chemical hair products or methods of grooming such as cornrowing.
- The loss of hair is caused by a different issues like thyroid diseases or Alopecia areata nutritional deficiencies, hair loss or scarring on the scalp or by medications such as chemotherapy.
If you suffer from heart problems discuss it with your doctor prior to trying Rogaine.
Spironolactone pills with prescription
Also referred to also as Aldactone also known as Aldactone, spironolactone helps reduce hair loss by targeting hormones. Specifically, it binds androgen receptors and reduces the body’s process of testosterone.
Some researchers do not believe that it functions efficiently as well, and the FDA hasn’t yet approved the drug as an option for androgenic alopecia. This medication can be used to decrease swelling caused by liver disease and nephrotic disorder (a kidney issue). It can also be utilized to manage hypertension, heart failure and the condition known as hyperaldosteronism (excessive release of aldosterone, a hormone.).
Some of the side effects include:
- allergic reactions
- Fluid or electrolyte issues
- extremely high levels of potassium
- Breast expansion (gynecomastia)
- serious skin reactions to the sun.
- Drowsiness
- stomach cramps and diarrhoea
- nausea and vomiting
- Potassium levels are high.
- leg cramps
- headache
- dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Itching
- irregular menstrual cycle or bleeding following menopausal
The oral tablet of Spironolactone may interact with other medicines and vitamins as well as herbs you might be taking. If you’re considering taking Aldactone to treat hair loss, speak to your doctor or pharmacist to determine whether it’s suitable for you.
Topical Tretinoin
Retin-A, also known as topical tretinoin, can be employed as a treatment combination with minoxidil to treat androgenic hair loss. There’s not much information about whether tretinoin can be used alone to promote hair growth, but the study published in 2007 by TrustedSourcefound that when it is combined with other drugs, it could provide promising results.
A few of the negative side effects of tretinoin be:
- redness, irritation, and dryness on the skin
- peeling or pain at the site of application
- Darkening or lightening the skin
Gel and topical tretinoin cream are FDA approved for skin care and anti-ageing functions, but not for hair loss treatment. It’s essential to use this type of treatment with the advice of your physician. In certain situations, the use of tretinoin may cause hair loss.
Injections of corticosteroid
Hair loss in women caused by alopecia Canada should look into treatment with corticosteroids in multiple areas of the affected region.
The injections of corticosteroids are effective in regulating the immune system’s activity and decreasing inflammation. Alopecia sufferers experience hair loss because the immune system attacks the internal processes that are natural to the body. Corticosteroids help to stop the attacks from occurring.
Corticosteroids mimic cortisol The hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands in your body. These hormones are injected into areas that lose hair in order to encourage new growth. Hair growth can be evident within a few days. 4 weeks Treatments can be repeated each 4 to 6 weeks.
The side effects of injections are:
- Skin atrophy
- A thinning on the skin of the scalp
Topical corticosteroids are also readily available, however, they aren’t necessarily as effective. Furthermore, oral corticosteroids could cause undesirable side effects.
Anthralin topical
Anthralin cream was initially utilized as a treatment for psoriasis It was also proven as an effective treatment for mild Alopecia Areata. In women who suffer from alopecia, Anthralin is both effective and safe. It can be used at home, every day, beginning with 5 minutes before progressing to periods of up to one hour.
It is also known as a “scalp sensitizer,” anthralin produces an irritant reaction which boosts the immune system and stimulates hair growth. Anthralin is applied every day directly on the scalp, in areas where you wish to stimulate hair growth. New hair growth could appear within between 2 and 3 months.
Some of the side effects are:
- irritant dermatitis
- can cause a temporary brown discolouration in lighter shades of hair and skin
Plalet-rich Plasma (PRP) treatment
PRP therapy is the process of drawing your own blood and then putting it in centrifuges to remove the red blood cells and plasma. This plasma that has growth factors then gets returned to your body.
When using PRP therapy to treat hair loss PRP therapy injects plasma directly into the hair follicles. There is minimal discomfort and takes about 10 minutes.
Following the initial treatment, you’ll typically get injections each month for three months, and then each 3 to 6 months. After a few months of treatment, you will notice less loss of hair. In the following months, they could see an increase in growth or thickness.
This treatment is fairly new, and there’s not any research that supports its efficacy. However, some studies from trusted Sources have proven that it is a straightforward treatment option that’s cost-effective.
Therapy with PRP includes several sessions over an 8 to 12-week period and maintenance between 4 and 6 months.
Risks that could be posed are:
- injuries to blood vessels, or nerves
- Infection
- Scar tissue, or even calcification injection locations
Ketoconazole shampoo
Alopecia androgenic sufferers might consider taking ketoconazole prescription in a concentration that is two per cent. The medication is offered from the kind of shampoo and is also known by its name Nizoral.
It’s an antifungal ingredient and can help decrease the body’s production of testosterone and other androgens that cause hair loss. It is also available in 1 per cent strength in your local pharmacy, however, it’s not as effective.
The most frequent adverse effect is irritation to the skin after using the product that can take shape of bumps resembling pimples. For some people, they may also experience dryness or oiliness in the scalp or hair or hair texture that is abnormal, or discolouration. Permed hair can cause losing its curly appearance, too.
In some cases, ketoconazole shampoo may cause hair loss to consult your physician promptly if you observe this adverse result.
Laser therapy and light therapy
Lasers may encourage hair growth in those with androgenic alopecia as well as pattern hair loss. Other terms for laser treatments include:
- Red light therapy
- cold laser
- soft laser
- Photobiomodulation
- biostimulation
Devices are accessible without prescription, in the form of
- brushes
- Combs
- Other items for handhelds
They emit light and can be able to create hair that is already stronger. Source.
It is possible to apply laser light treatments up to three times per week. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months before you see the results.
It’s important to know that laser treatments are not as FDA monitored as other medications are. The long-term safety of laser therapy and other aspects are not known. At present, there exist no adverse reactions related to laser therapy.
Portable devices are accessible without prescription from companies such as HairMax. Their products include bands, laser caps and combs intended to boost weakened hair follicles and reverse the loss of hair or loss.
HairMax devices utilize laser energy to immediately rejuvenate the hair follicles helping to encourage the growth of healthy hair by using low-level laser therapy (LLLT). Laser devises aid in increasing blood flow and eliminate hair follicles of waste to encourage natural hair growth.
Studies from Trusted Source demonstrate that the regular usage of LLLT to slow down hair loss and encourage hair growth is feasible and highly promising. FDA-approved LLLT devices, such as HairMax’s proved to be efficient and safe for treating patients who could not respond to conventional treatment for hair loss.
Healthful habits to avoid hair loss for women
There are many other methods you can try at home to improve your hair’s health and scalp. These methods can be especially beneficial if the loss of your hair is due to:
- Telogen effluvium (TE) — the second most popular type that causes hair loss that is diagnosed by dermatologists. It occurs when there’s a shift in the number of hair follicles which are growing hair
- stress
- hair damage from hair styling
- Dietary deficiencies
1. Make sure you select a gentle hair treatment
Make sure to avoid tightly tied hairstyles, such as buns, braids or ponytails. You should also avoid pulling or rubbing your hair.
Cleanse or brush your hair gently using an oversized comb when needed to avoid excessive pulling on the hair’s roots.
Hot rollers, straightening or curling irons and hot oil treatments bleaching and other chemical processes are some other ways to stay clear of.
2. Choose nutrient-rich foods
You might want to consider using more nutritious foods that have been shown to aid in hair growth.
For instance, eating an assortment of whole foods that are full of minerals and vitamins can help to fuel your body as well as the regions which are responsible for hair growth.
Foods high in vitamin A such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkins, and kale are a great way to aid the growth of hair. Consuming whole grains such as almonds, fish, and meat that is rich in vitamin B could be beneficial too.
Vitamin C high-quality foods, such as strawberries and peppers, as well as guavas, along with citrus fruits aid in the creation of the protein collagen which is a vital component of hair’s structure.
If you suspect that you could have a deficiency in one or more vitamins, consult your physician who will order blood tests to determine your vitamin levels and also address any other issues related to your diet, like eating disorders or other health issues that could hinder the absorption of nutrients.
3. In addition to zinc and iron,
Ask your doctor about supplements for zinc and iron.
ResearchersTrusted Source believes that deficiency of these vitamins can cause hair loss. Proper supplementation could reverse the results of many diseases, including alopecia areata.
Also, you may discuss with your physician about having a blood test to measure the levels of zinc and iron.
If you and your physician decide that you require supplementation then you can collaborate with them to determine the appropriate dosage based on the level of deficiency.
Supplementation that is excessive or unneeded can be risky, so it is best to consult your physician prior to adding new supplements to your diet.
4. Try the acupuncture
Acupuncture can be described as an aspect of Chinese medicine that has been used for many thousands of years. There are a variety of acupuncture therapies and some scientists believe that it could help in the loss of hair caused by alopecia arreatata.
The needles placed on the scalp could stimulate hair follicles and stimulate growth.
There is more research to be conducted in this field, however certain smaller Trusted Source research studies have yielded positive results. You might want to ask your doctor to refer you to an acupuncturist licensed by the state if you think this procedure is appealing to you.
5. Managing stress
Although trauma can strike in a sudden and unexpected manner it is possible to reduce stress with exercises, such as yoga, or mindfulness techniques like meditation.
Researchers are even examining the possibilities of alternative healing techniques for reversing hair loss. It is believed that yoga and meditation can aid in controlling blood sugar and improve circulation, which can aid in growth.
Most frequently asked questions
What do I need to know about what treatment for hair loss is the best one for me?
The choice of treatment for hair loss program is a very individual decision. If you are considering your options, you should to speak with your doctor to identify the root of the issue leading to your hair loss in order to choose the most appropriate treatment. Certain people have success using DIY remedies or OTC treatments for hair loss while others are better candidates for prescription medication and treatments.
What can I do to tell when I’m suffering from hair loss?
The signs of loss of hair can differ depending on the individual However, you may observe more hair accumulating inside your hairbrush, or in the drain of your shower or hair loss around your head. A dermatologist can assist you to determine if you are suffering from losing hair or shed, or both, and also identify the underlying reasons.
When should I visit my doctor?
If you experience the loss of your hair suddenly or in patches or a rash appearing on your scalp, think about speaking to a dermatologist. Hair loss that is sudden could be a sign of a medical condition which may require treatment.
Takeaway
If you’re suffering from hair loss, know that you’re not alone.
In an investigation, it is estimated that hair loss impacts about 40% of women before the age of 50. Although it can be difficult to manage but there are effective treatments that are available to many.
Certain conditions that result in temporary loss of hair will disappear without treatment or lifestyle modifications. Some may be responsive to treatments to encourage growth and therefore starting earlier rather than later is the best option.
Before you begin any treatment, consult your dermatologist about the right treatment option that’s appropriate for your needs.