Top Causes of Hair Loss in Women
When people think of hair restoration treatments, they typically think about remedies for male pattern baldness. Men do comprise a lot of the patient base at our Chicago, IL hair surgery center, but Dr. Raymond J. Konior and Dr. Sahar Nadimi have also treated many women suffering from hair loss.
Below, we want to look at some of the most common causes of women’s hair loss. This should give you an idea of the issues women face and what treatments or lifestyle adjustments could be helpful to you.
Changes in Hormones
Your hormones can lead to a number of nuisances when it comes to your health and physical appearance. Hormone changes can cause weight gain, acne, and even hair loss. When women have an excess of androgens (male hormones) in their system, that can throw off their normal hair growth cycle.
Issues with your thyroid gland can result in hormone changes, as can birth control, pregnancy, fertility problems, and menopause.
Nutritional Deficiencies
There are a number of nutritional deficiencies that can lead to hair loss in women. Take note of any shortfalls in the following vitamins, minerals, and nutrients:
- Iron - Iron is essential for producing the protein in hair, which is why women who suffer from anemia will often experience some amount of hair thinning.
- Vitamin B12 - A lack of B12 can affect your red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body. This can leave you feeling lethargic, and it can cause you to lose a little hair as well.
- Protein - Protein is an essential source of energy that your body needs to rebuild itself. A lack of protein could result in hair loss or changes in the quality of your hair.
In the case of nutritional deficiencies, the team at Chicago Hair Institute might suggest dietary changes and the use of nutritional supplements rather than professional surgery or restoration treatment.
Certain Kinds of Hairstyles
Some hairstyles tug at the scalp, which can lead to hair being pulled free over time. This includes tight braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, weaves, and tight updos. Try to side with hairstyles that don’t tug at the scalp so much.
Excessive Styling and Processing
Related to the above, too much treating, teasing, dyeing, and tugging at your hair is bound to do damage to the hair strands themselves as well as the follicles and your scalp. Try to find natural hairdos that put little stress on your hair.
Major Weight Loss
If you’ve lost a lot of weight, it can lead to temporary hair loss. Many women who undergo bariatric surgery or lose massive amounts of body mass naturally will notice thinning hair in the first weeks or months after they’ve lost a lot a weight. As your body chemistry adjusts, the hair should return.
Physical or Emotional Stress
Stress can have so many negative effects on your wellness. It can alter your focus, your ability to sleep, your activity level, and also your hair health. De-stressing can make many positive differences, which is why it’s so important to make time for yourself.
Advanced Age
As you get older, long-term wear and tear will take its toll on your body, and that includes your hair. Many women of advanced age experience hair thinning or hair loss as a result of a combination of all of the above issues.
Learn More About Female Hair Loss
For more information about hair loss causes and how they can be addressed, be sure to contact our team of hair restoration specialists. You can reach the Chicago Hair Institute by phone at (630) 932-9690.
