Causes of Hair Loss in Women
Studies have shown that women are more emotionally affected by hair loss than men, likely due to societal expectations about beauty. Dr. Glashofer believes that society places unnecessary pressure on appearance and hair. Consequently, women tend to feel more shame about baldness than men. There are many possible causes of hair loss in women, including menopause, diabetes, and traction alopecia. Here are some of the most common causes.
Menopause
While hair loss is an inevitable stage of life, addressing menopause symptoms and improving overall health are important. Regular exercise reduces your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It also improves circulation. Using a regular exercise routine also helps keep your weight in check. Additionally, regular exercise also improves the appearance of your skin. Dry skin can be combated with topical lotions. Drinking more water is an excellent way to stay hydrated and minimize the appearance of thinning hair during menopause.
Diabetes
Hair loss in women is a common complication of diabetes, with the prevalence of thinning hair at an estimated 40%. In addition to the hair's physical appearance, women with diabetes may experience a decline in self-esteem. However, despite the many side effects, diabetes does not have to cause hair loss. Many women with diabetes can find ways to treat their condition without compromising their appearance. Read on for some tips.
Traction alopecia
The most common way to treat Traction Alopecia is by avoiding hairstyles that are too tight or prone to pulling. If you do have traction alopecia, your doctor may recommend reducing the use of styling products and avoiding excessive heat and chemicals. In addition, you should avoid following the same hairstyle for an extended time, as this can worsen the condition. Instead, change your hairstyle every few days. You can also apply plant-based products to protect your hair from harmful chemicals.
Endocrine disorders
Some endocrine disorders are associated with hair loss, including hypopituitarism, hyperthyreosis, and hypoparathyroidism. Less common but still significant endocrine conditions include hyperprolactinemia and autoimmune thyroiditis. Endocrine disorders are suspected based on symptoms and dermatological findings. Classic hair evaluation methods include weighing the hair and measuring blood levels of HbA1c.
Genetics
The genetics of hair loss in women is well documented. According to Harvard Medical School, one out of four people will experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Genetic hair loss is caused by a genetic predisposition to develop a hair loss pattern, either male or female. Typically, hair loss will occur in a predictable pattern, beginning around 20 or 30 and affecting the entire scalp. The symptoms of male and female pattern baldness are similar. For women, however, the pattern will be more gradual. Alopecia Areata is a genetic autoimmune disease characterized by a receding hairline. Fortunately, women may be able to manage the symptoms by taking corticosteroids or steroids, which may help prevent hair loss.
