Hair loss is a common concern for many women, and understanding the reasons for hair loss in females is crucial in addressing this issue. According to AAD research, about 40% of women experience some form of hair fall by the age of 50.
While hair loss can occur due to various factors, knowing the underlying causes can help in managing and preventing further hair shedding.
Stress, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies are among the primary reasons for hair loss in females, each affecting the hair growth cycle differently.
Your Hair Growth Life Cycle:
The hair growth cycle comprises four distinct phases:
Anagen (Growth Phase): This active phase lasts between 2 to 8 years, during which hair grows approximately 1 to 1.5 centimeters per month. The duration of the anagen phase determines the maximum length of hair
Catagen (Transitional Phase): Spanning about 2 to 3 weeks, this brief phase marks the end of active growth. Hair follicles shrink, and hair growth ceases.
Telogen (Resting Phase): Lasting around 5 to 6 weeks, the telogen phase is a resting period where hair remains in the follicle without growth. Approximately 10% to 15% of hair is in this phase at any given time.
Exogen (Shedding Phase): This phase involves the shedding of old hair, making way for new growth. It’s a natural part of the hair cycle, with about 100 to 150 hairs shed daily.
Disruptions in any of these phases can lead to hair loss For instance, stress can prematurely push hair follicles into the telogen phase, resulting in increased shedding. Similarly, nutritional deficiencies can impair the anagen phase, leading to weaker hair growth.
Common Causes of Sudden Hair Loss in Women
Hair loss in women can result from various factors. Here are the 10 primary and most common causes behind women’s hair fall:
1. Genetic Predisposition:
Genetic factors significantly influence hair loss in women. Studies have identified over 200 genetic loci associated with male-pattern baldness, many of which are also relevant to females.
These genetic variations can lead to androgenic alopecia, characterized by progressive hair thinning. Family history plays an important role. Women with close relatives experiencing hair loss are at a higher risk.
2. Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid disorders can lead to hair loss in women. During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels prolong the anagen (growth) phase, resulting in thicker hair.
Postpartum, a drop in estrogen causes more hair follicles to enter the telogen (resting) phase, leading to shedding. Menopause-induced decreases in estrogen and progesterone can shrink hair follicles, causing thinning. Thyroid imbalances disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
3. Medical Treatments:
Certain medical treatments can induce hair shedding in women. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy target rapidly dividing cells, affecting hair follicles and leading to hair loss. Medications such as blood pressure drugs, gout treatments, and high doses of vitamin A have been linked to hair thinning.
For instance, beta-blockers and anticoagulants can disrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in hair loss. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with healthcare providers to manage and mitigate these risks.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies:
Deficiencies in basic nutrients like iron and vitamin D can significantly contribute to hair loss in women. A study published highlighted that low levels of vitamins D and B12 are more prevalent among individuals with thinning hair and alopecia compared to those without hair loss.
Another study by Harvard shows that iron is responsible for carrying oxygen to hair follicles, and iron supplements may be recommended if you have hair loss associated with iron deficiency. Addressing these deficiencies through diet or supplementation can help mitigate hair loss.
5. Higher Stress:
Both physical and emotional stress can lead to temporary hair shedding. The Mayo Clinic notes that stress can push large numbers of hair follicles into a resting phase, resulting in significant hair loss.
Furthermore, a study published in the Harvard Stem Cell Institute found that stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to hair follicle stem cell depletion and premature hair graying.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes is important for maintaining healthy hair growth.
6. Alopecia Areata:
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss. In this condition, the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
While the exact cause is unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Treatment options include corticosteroids and other medications aimed at suppressing the immune response.
7. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can lead to hair thinning in women. Elevated levels of androgens, such as testosterone, are common in PCOS and can cause hair follicles to shrink, resulting in thinner hair. A retrospective study found that hirsutism and acanthosis nigricans are reliable clinical markers of PCOS.
8. Thyroid Disorders:
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to hair loss in women. Thyroid hormones play an important role in the hair growth cycle, and imbalances can disrupt this process.
According to Healthline, hair loss caused by thyroid conditions is typically temporary and can be reversed with proper treatment and monitoring. Furthermore, a study published notes that approximately 50% of individuals with hyperthyroidism and 33% with hypothyroidism experience hair loss.
9. Medications:
Certain medications can have hair loss as a side effect. Drugs used for conditions like high blood pressure, gout, and depression have been linked to hair thinning. WebMD lists antibiotics, antidepressants, and high blood pressure medications among those that may cause hair loss. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss potential side effects and explore alternative treatments if necessary.
10. Chemical Hair Treatments:
Frequent use of chemical hair treatments, such as dyes, perms, and relaxers, can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Trichosynergy notes that over-relaxing, bleaching, and dyeing hair are primary causes of chemical alopecia.
These treatments can weaken hair strands and, over time, cause them to break or fall out. Limiting the use of such chemicals and opting for gentler hair care practices can help maintain hair health.
Hair Loss Treatments for Females
Hair loss in women can be distressing, but several treatments are available to address this issue. Here are some effective options:
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): An over-the-counter topical solution that stimulates hair growth. Studies have shown that minoxidil can help many people regrow their hair or slow the rate of hair loss.
- Oral Prescription Drugs: The FDA has approved finasteride and spironolactone, but neither drug is specifically approved for female pattern hair loss.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp to promote hair growth. Early evidence suggests that PRP therapy can reduce hair loss and increase hair density.
- Microneedling: This procedure is frequently used in conjunction with topical minoxidil. The doctor punctures the scalp with fine needles before applying the topical treatment.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Utilizes red light to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth. Some studies suggest that LLLT can be effective in treating hair loss.
- Hair Transplant Surgery: Involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body to the thinning or balding areas. This surgical option can provide permanent results.
Please be aware that no medications or treatments are suggested here. Before making any decisions, please see a licensed dermatologist.
Next Step in Sudden Female Hair Fall:
Addressing sudden hair loss in women requires a comprehensive approach, including medical evaluation, lifestyle adjustments, and appropriate treatments. Consulting with a hair specialist (dermatologist) can help identify the underlying cause and determine the most effective course of action. For Hair PRP, & more, visit the best Doctor for hair loss in Faridabad.
If you’re experiencing female pattern hair loss (FPHL), consider visiting Studio 1915. Our hair loss treatment in Faridabad offers personalized solutions unique to the cause of hair fall. We offer advanced treatments like PRP therapy to promote hair growth. Consult with our hair experts and get help to regain confidence with healthier hair. Call now: +91 9871001915.
