Hair loss (alopecia) in women. Stop it and regrow again. Find here the causes, diagnosis, and treatment (April 2025):

 

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Understand the hair loss in women:

  • Hair loss in women is just that, when females experience unexpected, heavy hair loss.

  • Generally, humans shed between 50 and 100 single hairs per day.

  • Hair shedding is part of a natural balance; some hairs fall out while others grow in.

  • An interruption in this balance, when hair falls out and less hair grows in, causes hair loss.

  • The medical term for hair loss is “alopecia.”

  • Hair grows on almost all of your skin surfaces, but not on the palms of your hands, soles of your feet, lips, or eyelids.

  • Light, fine, short hair is called Vellus hair, and Terminal hair is thicker, darker, and longer.

Life cycle of a hair:

Illustration of the growth cycle of a hair


Each hair develops from a follicle — a narrow pocket in the skin — and goes through three phases of growth.


The Anagen phase (growing phase) -Figure A:

  • The anagen phase (growing phase, figure A) is an active growth phase that lasts from two to seven or eight years.

  • This phase generally refers to about 85% to 90% of the hair on your head.


The catagen phase (transition phase) - Figure B:

  • Catagen (figure B), the transition phase, when hair follicles shrink and last about two to three weeks.

  • During this phase, the hair shaft moves upward toward the skin's surface, and the dermal papilla (the structure that nourishes cells that give rise to hair) begins to separate from the follicle.


The telogen phase (resting phase) - Figure C:

  • Telogen (figure C), the resting phase, lasts around two to four months and culminates in the shedding of the hair shaft. At the end of this phase, the hair falls out.


Your shorter hairs, like eyelashes, arm and leg hair, and eyebrows, have a short anagen phase (about one month). Your scalp hair can last up to eight years. 

What are the types of hair loss in women?

  • There are many different types of hair loss. It can be "thinning" or involve total hair loss. It can be gradual or sudden, affecting both the old and the young.

  • Hair loss can be genetic or a result of extreme stress, a medical condition, or treatment.

  • Hair loss is a well-known side effect of chemotherapy.

  • It's also common for women to lose more hair than usual, up to 3 months after giving birth.


Technically, there are three types of hair loss in women:

  • Androgenetic alopecia/female pattern: Alopecia/female pattern hair loss (FPHL)/baldness: This is the most common type. Hair thins over the top of your head and on the sides.

  • Anagen effluvium: Medications cause this type because they compromise a growing hair follicle. An example is chemotherapy.

  • Telogen effluvium: An increased number of hair follicles reaching the telogen phase causes this type. This is the stage where hair falls out.

Genetic Hair Loss:

  • Thinning hair that occurs with age is often caused by androgenic alopecia.

  • The common condition affects approximately 50% of women and can impact self-confidence. This is one of the most common causes of hair loss; however, it can happen so gradually that you may not notice it at first.

  • Excessive hair shedding becomes most noticeable when the scalp becomes more visible.

Patterns of female hair loss:

  • Ludwig's Classification to describe female pattern hair loss is described below: 

  • Type I is minimal thinning that can be camouflaged with hair styling techniques.

  • Type II is characterized by decreased volume and noticeable widening of the midline part.

  • Type III describes diffuse thinning, with a see-through appearance on the top of the scalp.


While men tend to experience hair loss beginning at the forehead and crown of the head, women are more likely to experience thinning hair at the top of the head, usually along the top third or half of the scalp. 


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Symptoms (signs) of hair loss in women:

Hair loss may present in different ways depending on the cause. You may notice sudden hair loss or a gradual thinning over time.


Key signs and symptoms of hair loss include:

  • Overall thinning: Gradual thinning on the top of the head is the most common type of hair loss. Women may notice that their parts broaden.

  • Bald spots: Bald spots may be circular or patchy areas on your scalp with thinning or no hair. Your skin may feel itchy or painful immediately before the hair falls out.

  • Handfuls of hair: You may experience sudden hair loss, particularly after emotional or physical trauma. Your hair may come out in clumps while washing or brushing, leading to overall thinning.

  • Full loss: Medical treatments like chemotherapy may cause sudden and dramatic hair loss.


The other signs of  hair loss in women may include:

  • Seeing more hair fall out daily.

  • Having noticeable patches of thinner or missing hair, including a part on the top of your head that gets wider.

  • Seeing scalp skin through your hair.

  • Tying up smaller ponytails.

  • Feeling hair break off.

What causes hair loss in women?

There are several possible causes of hair loss in women, including:

  • Genetic predisposition (it runs in the biological family history).

  • Health conditions.

  • Hormonal changes.

  • Damaged hair follicles.

  • Changes to your eating habits (rapid weight loss).

  • Stress.

  • Chemical hair treatments.

  • Treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

  • An underlying health condition, like an abnormal thyroid, anemia, vitamin deficiency, etc.

  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause).

  • Certain medications and supplements (blood pressure medicines, gout medicines, and high doses of vitamin A).

  • The most common cause of hair loss in females is androgenetic alopecia, which has strong links to genetics and can run in families.


  • According to 2018 research, hair loss from androgenetic alopecia may start at a young age. Some females may begin losing their hair in their late teens or early 20s, though most females may not begin to lose their hair until their 40s or older.

  • Both males and females can develop androgenetic alopecia, but they experience it in different ways. Males tend to experience a receding hairline or bald spot on top of their head, while females tend to present different symptoms.

  • In females, the parting at the center of the hair often becomes more defined or wider. Their hair may also appear thinner or patchier overall.

  • These symptoms are due to a thinning of each hair strand. The hairs also have a shorter life cycle, and only stay on the head for a shorter period.

  • Female pattern hair loss is a progressive condition. Females may only notice a slightly wider parting in their hair at first, but as symptoms progress, this can become more noticeable.

  • Other forms of alopecia, such as alopecia areata, may cause one or more patches of complete baldness.

  • Other factors may play a role in hair loss, such as inflammatory conditions that affect the scalp and hormone imbalances.

  • Healthcare professionals may want to investigate these possible causes if the person does not respond to typical treatments.

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Know more about the causes of hair loss in women:

Androgenetic alopecia:

  • Female-pattern baldness is the leading cause of hair loss in women. The medical term is androgenetic alopecia (alopecia meaning “hair loss”).

  • Almost every woman eventually develops some degree of female pattern hair loss.

  • Androgenic alopecia causes the typical hair growth cycle to shorten. As a result, hair doesn’t grow as long or thick as it normally would.

  • This pattern of hair loss may appear as an overall thinning or a widening of your hair part. It occurs slowly over several months or years.

  • Androgenetic alopecia can occur at any age after puberty, but women tend to first notice it around menopause, when hair loss typically increases.

  • The risk rises with age, and it's higher for women with a history of hair loss on either side of the family.

  • As the name suggests, androgenetic alopecia involves the action of the hormones called androgens, which are essential for normal male sexual development and have other important functions in both sexes, including sex drive and regulation of hair growth.

  • The condition may be inherited and involve several different genes.

  • It can also result from an underlying endocrine condition, such as overproduction of androgen or an androgen-secreting tumor on the ovary, pituitary, or adrenal gland.

  • In either case, the alopecia is likely related to increased androgen activity. But unlike androgenetic alopecia in men, in women, the precise role of androgens is harder to determine.

  • In either sex, hair loss from androgenetic alopecia occurs because of a genetically determined shortening of anagen, a hair's growing phase, and a lengthening of the time between the shedding of a hair and the start of a new anagen phase.

  • That means it takes longer for hair to start growing back after it is shed in the course of the normal growth cycle.

  • The hair follicle itself also changes, shrinking and producing a shorter, thinner hair shaft, a process called "follicular miniaturization." 

  • As a result, thicker, pigmented, longer-lived "terminal" hairs are replaced by shorter, thinner, non-pigmented hairs called "vellus."


Other types of alopecia include:

  • Alopecia areata.

  • Cicatricial alopecia.

  • Traumatic alopecia.

  • Anagen effluvium (sometimes called chemotherapy-induced alopecia).


Telogen Effluvium:

Telogen Effluvium (TE) is typically temporary. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), TE isn’t defined as “hair loss” but rather as excessive hair shedding.


Stress causes many hairs in the active hair growth (anagen) phase to abruptly enter the resting (telogen) phase.

When the hairs reenter the growth phase, the hairs suspended in the resting phase are suddenly released, causing shedding.


You can sometimes identify TE by looking at the strand. Telogen hairs have a bulb of keratin at the root.


TE is generally caused by stress or a shock to the body. For example, you may lose hair in the months after giving birth. But there are many other possible triggers, such as:

  • Estrogen drop after giving birth or stopping HT (Hormone Replacement Therapy).

  • Protein deficiency.

  • Eating disorders.

TE is typically reversible and often resolves 6 to 8 months after your body readjusts or the trigger is gone.


Chronic health conditions:

Chronic health conditions that may lead to hair loss include:

  • Psoriasis

  • Vitiligo.

  • Thyroid disease.

  • Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

  • Hypopituitarism.

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus

  • Addison’s disease

  • Celiac disease

  • Allergies

  • Lichen planus (autoimmune skin rash)

  • Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)

  • Trichorrhexis invaginata (also called bamboo hair).


Menopause and hormone imbalances:

Hormonal changes of any kind, particularly decreasing estrogen levels, can temporarily disrupt the hair life cycle.

Women may experience hair loss during menopause due to slowed production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Menopause can also lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as night sweats, weight gain, and vaginal dryness, which may raise your overall stress levels. This can also contribute to hair thinning or loss.

Some women may even notice hair growth changes after going off hormonal birth control pills.


Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that causes an excess of androgen levels (male sex hormones). It usually affects women during their reproductive years and can cause several symptoms that affect their quality of life:

  • Increased facial and body hair

  • Hair loss on the scalp

  • Both hair loss and increased hair growth occur in unwanted areas.

When PCOS causes hair loss in women, it is classified as male pattern baldness because androgen levels result in thin hair. As a result, the treatment for this type of hair loss is the same as that for pattern baldness. 


Lupus:

Lupus is a complex but relatively common autoimmune disorder affecting many body areas, including joints, skin, and major internal organs and vessels. While both women and men can have lupus, it is more commonly found in women. Lupus is difficult to diagnose because it can imitate other diseases. Although there is no cure for lupus, and the cause is unknown, patients can usually manage it with medication. After it is under control, most patients experience improved hair growth. If you have been diagnosed with lupus, it’s best to seek treatment from a specialist in the field.


Iron-Deficient Anemia:

A common side effect of iron-deficient anemia is hair loss. Like many other diseases on this list, this type of anemia is most often found in women. A simple blood test can determine if you are anemic. Luckily, the treatment is relatively straightforward: taking an iron supplement can prevent further damage and help promote healthy hair growth. In severe cases, more aggressive therapies may be required.


Severe Stress or Anxiety Disorders:

When people experience chronic stress, it can manifest itself in physical ways. We commonly hear about weight gain or loss, but thinning hair is another symptom. Sometimes, it is so gradual that the person may not notice it until they have substantial hair loss or the hair begins to grow back, resulting in patches of coarse hair next to longer hair or a thinning hairline. Treatment for chronic stress and anxiety typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication. In this case, hair regrowth is often possible through treatment, although eliminating stressors is often sufficient in reducing loss, and hair will typically regrow after. Some patients experience temporary hair loss from temporary stressors. In these cases, their hair grows back when the stressor is eliminated. If you think you may be suffering from any of these diseases, your doctor can run blood tests and refer you to a specialist if necessary.


Thyroid Conditions:

The thyroid impacts our heart rates and metabolism. If you experience a thyroid imbalance, it is also expected to experience thinning hair. A slow thyroid (hypothyroidism) and a fast thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause hair loss and changes in texture. While hyper- and hypothyroid are perhaps the most well-known thyroid conditions, they are not the only disorders that affect this gland. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the thyroid and is most commonly found in middle-aged women. Treatment for any thyroid disorder typically includes medication.

What are the risk factors for hair loss in women?

Hair loss in women can affect any female at any age. However, it’s usually more common if it runs in your biological family history and/or after:

  • Age 40.

  • Pregnancy.

  • Chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

  • Menopause.


Hair loss can affect anyone. But some factors may make a woman more likely to experience hair loss:

  • Age: Hair loss becomes more common as you age. With age, hair grows more slowly, and some follicles stop producing new hairs.

  • Family history: If you have an immediate family member (such as a parent or sibling) who experienced hair loss, then you’re more likely to have hair loss.

  • High stress levels: Stress and anxiety may contribute to hair loss.

  • Medical conditions: Certain health conditions may increase your risk of hair loss.


Hair loss due to the side effects of Medications:

A whole host of medications have hair loss listed as a side effect. Some of the medicines commonly linked to hair loss include:

  • Retinoids.

  • Antidepressants.

  • Statins.

  • Birth control pills.

  • Immunosuppressants.

  • Beta-blockers.

  • Steroids.

  • Thyroid medications.

If you experience hair loss from taking any of these medications, adjusting them can help you control your hair loss. You can also talk to your doctor about taking a different generic form of your medication. Each medication will have a slightly different formula; one drug may work better for you.


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Diagnosis and Tests:

Dermatologists have expertise in diagnosing hair loss and counseling their patients on what may help them regrow their hair.

In the below figure, a dermatologist is using a dermatoscope to examine a patient’s scalp:


Dermatologist using a dermatoscope and comb to examine a patient for signs of alopecia areata

How will a healthcare provider diagnose hair loss in women?

A healthcare provider will do a thorough physical examination and take a detailed history to understand changes in your hair growth.

The healthcare provider will observe the pattern of hair loss, check for signs of inflammation or infection, and possibly order blood tests to investigate other possible causes of hair loss, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and iron deficiency.

A hormonal evaluation is usually unnecessary unless there are signs of excess androgen activity (such as menstrual irregularities, acne, and unwanted hair growth).

Your provider will also ask about what medications or supplements you currently take. 


What tests diagnose hair loss in women?

The tests to diagnose hair loss in women may include:

Pull test: Your doctor gently pulls several dozen hairs to see how many come out. This helps determine the stage of the shedding process.

Blood tests: These checks are performed for vitamin and mineral levels (like vitamin D, vitamin B, zinc, and iron) and hormone levels (like thyroid). This might help uncover medical conditions that can cause hair loss.

Scalp biopsy: Your doctor scrapes samples from the scalp skin or plucks a few hairs from the scalp to examine the hair roots under a microscope. This can help determine whether an infection is causing hair loss.

Light microscopy: Your doctor uses a special instrument to examine hairs trimmed at their bases. Microscopy helps uncover possible disorders of the hair shaft.


What questions might a healthcare provider ask to diagnose hair loss?

To diagnose hair loss, your doctor is likely to ask you some questions.

Being ready to answer them may save time going over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

  • What kinds of hair products do you use?

  • What kinds of hairstyles do you wear?

  • Do you have a habit of pulling your hair out (trichotillomania)?

  • Has anyone in your immediate family experienced hair loss?

  • When did you first begin experiencing hair loss?

  • Has hair loss ever happened to you before?

  • Have you noticed poor hair growth, hair breakage, or hair shedding?

  • Is there anything stressful going on in your life?

  • Has your hair loss been patchy or overall?

  • What medications and supplements do you take every day?

  • What foods are in your diet?

  • Have you noticed hair loss in places other than your scalp, like your eyebrows, legs, and arm hair?

  • Does anything worsen your hair loss?

  • Does anything improve your hair loss?

  • Have you noticed hair loss occasionally, or has it been going on continuously?


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Management and Treatment of hair loss in women:

Effective treatments for some types of hair loss are available.

You might be able to reverse hair loss, or at least slow it.

With some conditions, such as patchy hair loss (alopecia areata), hair may regrow without treatment within a year.

Treatments for hair loss include topical solutions, medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.

Treatment for hair loss also depends on the cause. It may include:

  • Reducing your stress, like talking with a mental health professional.

  • Not using hair products (like chemical treatments) that damage your hair.

  • Taking vitamins or supplements for a vitamin deficiency. 

  • Changing your hairstyling routine to avoid damaging your hair follicles.

  • Taking medications.

  • Managing any underlying health conditions.


Medications, hair transplant surgery,  topical use of oil, massaging, medicated shampoo, air conditioners on the scalp,  healthy diet, mental peace, and some specific procedures are the most common treatments for hair loss in women.

They include the following:

Topical solution:

Minoxidil (Rogaine, or generic versions):

  • This drug was initially introduced as a treatment for high blood pressure, but people who took it noticed that they were growing hair in places where they had lost it. 

  • Research studies confirmed that minoxidil applied directly to the scalp could stimulate hair growth.

  • As a result of the studies, the FDA originally approved over-the-counter 2% minoxidil to treat hair loss in women. Since then, a 5% solution has also become available when a stronger solution is needed for a woman's hair loss.

  • The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA)  approves Minoxidil to treat hair loss. Sold under the name Rogaine, as well as other generic brands, people can purchase topical Minoxidil over the counter. Minoxidil is safe for both males and females, and people report a high satisfaction rate after using it.

  • A healthcare provider might recommend using minoxidil (Rogaine®). This is approved for treating FPHL. You can purchase the 2% or 5% solution over the counter (OTC). However, you have to follow directions exactly and use the product indefinitely.

  • Minoxidil stimulates growth in the hairs and may increase their growth cycle. It can cause hairs to thicken and reduce the appearance of patchiness or a widening hair parting.

  • Minoxidil treatments are available in two concentrations: the 2% solution requires twice daily application for the best results, while the 5% solution or foam requires daily use.


When used as directed, minoxidil can:

  • Stimulate hair growth.

  • Prevent further hair loss.

Minoxidil tends to be more effective when used along with another treatment for hair loss.


  • While the instinct may be to choose the stronger solution, this is not always necessary. Research from 2018 and 2017 found that 2% minoxidil was effective for people with androgenetic alopecia or pattern baldness.

  • If a person finds success with minoxidil, they should continue using it indefinitely. When a person stops using minoxidil, the hairs that depended on the medication to grow will likely fall out within 6 months.

  • Minoxidil is not a miracle drug. While it can produce some new growth of fine hair in some, not all, women, it can't restore the full density of the lost hair. It's not a quick fix, either for hair loss in women. You won't see results until you use the drug for at least two months. The effect often peaks at around four months, but it could take longer, so plan on a trial of six to 12 months. If minoxidil works for you, you'll need to keep using it to maintain those results. If you stop, you'll start to lose hair again.

  • Regrowth continues for over a year, after which it stabilizes.

  • Minoxidil can help early hair loss; it cannot regrow an entire head of hair.


How to use minoxidil:

Be sure that your hair and scalp are dry. Using the dropper or spray pump that's provided with the over-the-counter solution, apply it twice daily to every area where your hair is thinning. Gently massage it into the scalp with your fingers so it can reach the hair follicles. Then air-dry your hair, wash your hands thoroughly, and wash off any solution that has dripped onto your forehead or face. Don't shampoo for at least four hours afterwards.

Some women find that the minoxidil solution leaves a deposit that dries and irritates their scalp. This irritation, called contact dermatitis, is probably caused not by the minoxidil itself, but rather by the alcohol that is included to facilitate drying.


At-home treatments for hair loss:

Minoxidil (Rogaine®):

Over-the-counter (nonprescription) minoxidil comes in liquid, foam, and shampoo forms for topical use (at 2% and 5%) and oral capsules.

Many people prefer the foam applied when the hair is wet.

Should you see regrowth, you will need to keep using it every day.

In a 2020 clinical trial comparing the effectiveness of a low-dose oral formulation (1 milligram [mg]) to the 5% formulation, both were associated with increased hair density after 6 months of use:

  • The oral medication increased hair density by 12%.

  • The topical solution increased hair density by 7.2%.

This hair loss treatment is generally safe and well-tolerated in low doses for various causes of hair loss. But you should speak with your doctor first before trying it. You’ll need a prescription for oral minoxidil.


Side effects of hair of minoxidil hair treatment:

  • Side effects from minoxidil are uncommon and generally mild.

  • Minoxidil may irritate your scalp and cause dryness, scaling, itching, and/or redness. See your dermatologist if this happens.

  • With minoxidil, you might also see hair growing in places other than your scalp (cheeks and forehead, for example). Wash your face after you apply minoxidil and make sure you avoid other areas when you apply it.

  • Many generic products of Minoxidil (Rogaine) are available. They all contain the same amount of minoxidil, but some include additional ingredients, such as herbal extracts, which might trigger allergic reactions.

  • Some females may experience irritation or an allergic reaction to ingredients in the product, such as alcohol or propylene glycol.

  • Switching formulas or trying different brands may alleviate symptoms.

  • Minoxidil is safe, but it can have unpleasant side effects, even apart from the alcohol-related skin irritation.

  • Sometimes the new hair differs in color and texture from the surrounding hair.

  • Another risk is hypertrichosis, excessive hair growth in the wrong places, such as the cheeks or forehead. (This problem is more likely with the stronger 5% solution.)

  • Some females may also experience increased hair loss at first when using minoxidil. This typically stops after the first few months of treatment as the hair strengthens.

  • Additionally, misapplying minoxidil or applying it to the forehead or too much of the neck may cause hair growth in these areas. Only apply minoxidil to the scalp to avoid these side effects.

  • Don’t use this product if you’re pregnant, if you plan to get pregnant, or if you’re breastfeeding.


Hair loss shampoos:

Some minor hair loss may happen due to clogged pores on the scalp. Gently massaging shampoo into the scalp and resisting the urge to rub it into the hair when rinsing can help to prevent hair damage, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). They also recommend using conditioner each time after shampooing.

An older review from 2015  notes that using certain types of medicated shampoos may also help reduce and prevent hair loss.

Avoiding damaging treatments such as heat, curling irons, and dyes may also help.


Ketoconazole:

The drug ketoconazole may help treat hair loss in some cases, such as androgenetic alopecia, where inflammation of the hair follicles often contributes to hair loss.

It is noted that topical ketoconazole might help reduce inflammation and improve the strength and look of the hair.

Ketoconazole is available as a shampoo. Nizoral is a well-known brand that can be purchased over the counter. Nizoral contains a low concentration of ketoconazole, but stronger concentrations will require a prescription from a doctor.


Scalp massage:

Massaging the scalp may increase circulation in the area and promote hair growth.

Research from 2016 showed that regular scalp massage helped to make hair thicker. The researchers noted that this may be due to how scalp massage stimulates the tissues of the skin in the area.

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Medications:

Prescription medication that can regrow hair:

One of the treatment options is to take prescription medication. The type of medication prescribed will depend on your:

  • Hair loss causes.

  • Overall health.

  • Age.

  • Expected results.

  • Plans for getting pregnant.

With any medication, side effects are possible. Ask your dermatologist about possible side effects that you might experience while taking one of these medications to treat hair loss.


The medications include:

Finasteride and other alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitors:

Finasteride (Propecia® or Proscar):

This is a prescription drug for men. You take it daily as a pill. Many men taking finasteride experience a slowing of hair loss, and some may show new hair growth. It may take a few months to tell whether it's working for you. You'll need to keep taking it to retain any benefits. Finasteride may not work as well for men over 60.
Rare side effects of finasteride include diminished sex drive and sexual function, and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Women who are or may be pregnant need to avoid touching crushed or broken tablets.

It is the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication to treat male pattern hair loss, but not women. Doctors may sometimes prescribe it off-label to women who don’t plan on having children in the future.


Finasteride inhibits 5 alpha-reductase, blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the androgen responsible for male pattern baldness.


When taken as directed, finasteride can:

  • Slow down hair loss

  • Stimulate new hair growth

Finasteride is a pill that you take once a day. Taking it at the same time each day seems to produce the best results.

Like other treatments for hair loss, this, too, takes time to work. It usually takes about 4 months to notice any improvement.

Finasteride tends to be more effective if you begin taking it when you first notice hair loss. A dermatologist may also prescribe this medication to treat a woman who has hereditary hair loss and cannot get pregnant.

If finasteride works for you, you will need to keep taking it to continue getting results.

Once you stop, you’ll start losing hair again.

Before taking this medication, be sure to discuss possible side effects with your dermatologist.


Hormone therapy:

If hormone imbalances due to menopause, for example, cause hair loss, doctors may recommend some form of hormone therapy to correct them.

Some possible treatments include birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy for either estrogen or progesterone.


Other possibilities include antiandrogen medications, such as spironolactone.

Androgens are hormones that can speed up hair loss in some women, particularly those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), who typically produce more androgens.

Antiandrogens can stop the production of androgens and prevent hair loss. These medications may cause side effects, so always speak with a healthcare professional about what to expect and whether antiandrogens are suitable.

Spironolactone(Aldactone) and other anti-androgens:

  • Androgens include testosterone and other "male" hormones, which can accelerate hair loss in women.

  • Some women who don't respond to minoxidil may benefit from the addition of the diuretic drug spironolactone (Aldactone) for the treatment of androgenic alopecia because this drug has anti-androgen properties.

  • This medication is especially helpful for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) because they tend to make excess androgens.

  • Doctors will usually prescribe spironolactone together with an oral contraceptive for women of reproductive age.

  • It’s essential that you not become pregnant while taking spironolactone. This medication can cause birth defects. To prevent pregnancy, your dermatologist will also prescribe a birth control pill if it’s possible for you to get pregnant.

  • Possible side effects include dizziness, excess thirst, loss of appetite, weight gain, loss of libido, and fatigue.

  • If spirolactone is not effective, another medication with anti-androgen properties, such as finasteride, may help.


Spironolactone (Aldalactone) treats hair loss by acting on hormones. Specifically, it binds to androgen receptors and decreases your body’s processing of testosterone.

For women who have female-pattern hair loss, this medication may be an option. It can:

  • Stop further hair loss.

  • Increase hair thickness.


Studies indicate that this medication is effective in about 40% of women who have female pattern hair loss. In one study of 166 women taking spironolactone, 42% said they had mild improvement, and 31% reported increased thickness.


A 2020 study tracked 79 women who had been taking spironolactone daily (doses ranged from 25 to 200 mg) for at least 6 months. Twenty-nine of the 45 participants who used it for more than 6 months saw some improvement after 1 year. Those who began the trial with more pronounced hair loss benefited most from the medication.


However, not all researchers agree that spironolactone works for hair loss. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t endorsed it as a treatment for androgenic alopecia.


Nevertheless, the medication has still been used off-label. But you’ll need a prescription from your doctor first. More research is needed before definitive claims can be made regarding its effectiveness.


Immunosuppressants:

People with alopecia areata may also benefit from immunosuppressive medications like methotrexate, azathioprine, or cyclosporine. It’s typically combined with low-dose corticosteroids.

While a very low percentage of patients who take Methotrexate for autoimmune disorders may experience hair loss, this isn’t a common side effect of the medication.


Medications for Alopecia Areata:

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes your body to attack healthy hair follicles. As a result, the hair follicles fall out, and some patients experience hair loss in clumps. Every case of alopecia areata is different, but many individuals lose chunks of hair randomly on the scalp. In rare cases, individuals lose all their head and body hair. Although this disease is not cured, your hair can grow back with the proper treatment. Common, effective treatments include:

  • Corticosteroids

  • Immunotherapy (for hair loss related to allergies)

  • Topical minoxidil (Rogaine)


JAK inhibitors:

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors work by slowing down the overactivity of the immune system that can lead to inflammation and pain.

JAK inhibitors are a newer treatment under intense study for alopecia areata. While they’re FDA-approved for treating certain skin conditions, more research is needed on their effect on hair regrowth.


Other medications:

  • Other oral options include spironolactone (Carospir, Aldactone) and oral dutasteride (Avodart).

  • If you have an infection or painful inflammation, your dermatologist can prescribe medication to treat these. For example, if you have a type of hair loss called frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), which can cause painful inflammation, your dermatologist may prescribe an antibiotic and antimalarial medication. Scalp ringworm, which is caused by a fungus, requires antifungal medication.

  • Estrogens.

  • Prostaglandin analogs.

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Laser for at-home use:

You can buy laser caps and combs to treat hair loss at home. While only a few studies have looked at these devices, the results are promising.


In one study, more than 200 men and women who had hereditary hair loss were given either a laser hair comb or a sham device that looked like a laser comb. The patients used the device that they were given 3 times per week for 26 weeks.

The researchers found that some patients using the laser rather than the sham device saw overall thicker and fuller hair.


It’s important to understand that not everyone who used a laser saw regrowth.


More studies are needed to find out who is most likely to benefit from this treatment and whether these devices cause long-term side effects.

Procedures to help regrow hair:

While at-home treatments offer convenience, a procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist tends to be more effective. For this reason, your dermatologist may include one of the following in your treatment plan:


Steroids (Corticosteroids) injection:

Some females may also respond to corticosteroid injections. Doctors use this treatment only when necessary for conditions such as alopecia areata.

Alopecia areata results in a person’s hair falling out in random patches.


According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), injecting corticosteroids directly into the hairless patch may encourage new hair growth. However, this may not prevent other hair from falling out.


Topical corticosteroids, which are available as creams, lotions, and other preparations, may also reduce hair loss.


To help your hair regrow, your dermatologist injects this medication into the bald (or thinning) areas. These injections are usually given every 4 to 8 weeks as needed, so you will need to return to your dermatologist’s office for treatment.


In one study of 127 patients with patchy alopecia areata, more than 80% who were treated with these injections had at least half of their hair regrow within 12 weeks.


This is considered the most effective treatment for people who have a few patches of alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss. It helps to reduce inflammation.

You can either apply them to your scalp or have them injected into the affected area.


Hair transplant surgery:

  • In some cases where other treatments are not effective, a healthcare professional may recommend hair transplantation.

  • If you have an area of thinning or balding due to male (or female) pattern baldness, your dermatologist may mention a hair transplant as an option. This can be an effective and permanent solution.

  • Hair transplantation, a procedure used in the United States since the 1950s to treat androgenic alopecia, involves removing a strip of scalp from the back of the head and using it to fill in a bald patch. Today, 90% of hair-transplant surgeons use a technique called follicular unit transplantation, which was introduced in the mid-1990s.

  • During this procedure, surgeons remove a narrow strip of scalp and divide it into hundreds of tiny grafts, each containing just a few hairs. Each graft is planted in a slit in the scalp created by a blade or needle in the area of missing hair. Hair grows naturally this way, in small clusters of one to four follicles, called follicular units. As a result, the graft looks better than the larger "plugs" associated with hair transplants of yesteryear.

  • This procedure doesn't require hospitalization, but it is painful, so you'll be given a sedation medicine to ease any discomfort. Possible risks include bleeding, bruising, swelling, and infection. You may need more than one surgery to get the effect you want. Hereditary hair loss will eventually progress despite surgery.

  • Not everyone with female pattern hair loss is a good candidate for hair transplantation, especially if hair loss is widespread and severe. In addition, hair transplantation is expensive, can be time-intensive, and is not always successful.

  • This technique is touted as being dependable approach to addressing alopecia. But it’s not without risks, including infection or shock that may cause hair to fall out of the transplanted areas.

  • Insurance plans typically don’t cover hair transplants, and the cost (often thousands of dollars) may be a barrier.

  • Hair transplant therapy can be more costly than other treatments and is not suitable for everybody.


Follicular Unit Extraction for Hair Loss in Women:

Follicular unit extraction (FUE) is a treatment that extracts hair follicles from one area and places them in another to allow for improved density and natural-looking hair growth. During the procedure, the Doctor will take hair follicles from portions of your scalp that are less affected by hair loss. He can take up to 20% of those donor follicles before they become noticeably thinner. He will then move the follicles to areas of the scalp where you would like thicker hair growth.

Depending on the severity of your hair loss, the Doctor can also perform autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) treatments. During an ACP treatment, he will draw a blood sample from you and process it in a centrifuge to extract plasma. He can apply the plasma to your scalp with a thin needle to support the new growth.

The results from FUE are long-lasting if you take good care of your scalp, and the follicles will allow new strands of hair to grow as if they had never been disturbed. No new hair will grow in the donor site, but a doctor will carefully harvest your follicles so their absence should not be noticeable.


Light therapy (Laser therapy):

If using minoxidil every day or taking medication to treat hair loss seems unappealing to you, laser therapy may be an option. Also called low-level laser therapy, a few studies suggest that this may help:

  • Hereditary hair loss.

  • Alopecia areata.

  • Hair loss due to chemotherapy.

  • Stimulate healing and hair growth after a hair transplant.


Studies indicate that laser therapy is safe and painless, but requires many treatment sessions. To see a bit of hair growth, you may need several treatments a week for many months.

  • Low-level light therapy may not be a sufficient treatment for hair loss on its own, but it may act to amplify the effects of other hair loss treatments, such as minoxidil.

  • The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a low-level laser device as a treatment for hereditary hair loss in men and women. A few small studies have shown that it improves hair density. More studies are needed to show long-term effects.

  • A healthcare provider might recommend forms of light therapy, like using the HairMax Lasercomb®. This low-light laser is approved by the U.S. FDA to treat FPHL(Female Pattern Hair Loss).

  • Another FDA-approved laser product is the Theradome LH80 PRO® helmet, and low-light laser helmets and caps.

  • Research from 2018 found that compared to control groups, adding low light therapy to regular 5% minoxidil treatment for androgenetic alopecia helped improve the recovery of the hair and the participants’ overall satisfaction with their treatment.

  • Further research is needed to help strengthen these results.


Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection:

Injections of protein-rich plasma (PRP) are used to encourage hair growth.

Early evidence suggests that injections of platelet-rich plasma may also help reduce hair loss.

A plasma-rich injection involves a healthcare professional drawing the person’s blood, separating the platelet-rich plasma from the blood, and injecting it back into the scalp at the affected areas. This helps speed up tissue repair.

The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes and usually doesn’t require any downtime.

You will need to return for repeat injections. Most patients return once a month for 3 months and then once every 3 to 6 months.

Within the first few months of treatment, you may notice that you are losing less or minimal amounts of hair.

Studies show that this can be a safe and effective hair loss treatment.

It is noted that this therapy reduces hair loss, increases hair density, and increases the diameter of each hair.

However, because most studies up until now have been very small, the review calls for more research using platelet-rich plasma for androgenic alopecia.


Microneedling:

A microneedling device contains hundreds of tiny needles. A few studies have shown that it can help stimulate hair growth. In one study, men between the ages of 20 and 35 years old who had mild or moderate hereditary hair loss were treated with either:

  • 5% minoxidil twice a day

  • 5% minoxidil twice a day plus weekly microneedling


After 12 weeks of treatment, the patients treated with minoxidil and microneedling had significantly more hair growth.


Other studies have shown that using microneedling along with another treatment, including platelet-rich plasma or a corticosteroid that you apply to the thinning area, helps improve hair growth.


While you can buy a microneedling device without a prescription, it’s best to check with your dermatologist first. Microneedling can worsen some conditions. It’s also important to get the right microneedling device.

The devices used for hair loss contain longer needles than those used to treat the skin.


Microneedling of the scalp with and without the application of minoxidil can be recommended by the dermatologist as per the need.


  • Doctors may sometimes prescribe other treatments off-label to reduce the incidence of hair loss in women, such as Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections.

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Eat a nutritious diet:

  • Eating a healthful diet may support normal hair growth, as well. Typically, a healthful diet will contain a wide variety of foods, including many different vegetables and fruits. These provide many essential nutrients and compounds that help keep skin and hair healthy.

  • Iron levels may also play a role in hair health. Females with hair loss can speak with a healthcare professional for a blood test to check if they have an iron deficiency. They may advise consuming an iron-rich diet or taking an iron supplement.


Vitamins, minerals, and other supplements:

If your blood test reveals that you’re not getting enough biotin, iron, or zinc, your dermatologist may recommend taking a supplement. If you’re not getting enough protein, your dermatologist can tell you how to boost your intake.

You should only take biotin, iron, or zinc when your blood test shows that you have a deficiency.

If your levels are normal, taking a supplement can be harmful. For example, if you take too much iron, you can develop iron poisoning. Early signs of this include stomach pain and vomiting.

Other supplements meant to help with hair loss tend to contain a lot of one nutrient. Because this can cause you to get too much of the nutrient, many dermatologists recommend taking a multivitamin instead.


Iron supplements:

  • Iron deficiency could be a cause of hair loss in some women.

  • Your doctor may test your blood iron level, particularly if you're a vegetarian, have a history of anemia, or have heavy menstrual bleeding.

  • If you do have an iron deficiency, you will need to take a supplement, and it may stop your hair loss. However, if your iron level is normal, taking extra iron will only cause side effects, such as stomach upset and constipation.

Lifestyle and home remedies:

You might want to try various hair care methods to find one that makes you feel better about how you look. For example, use styling products that add volume, color your hair, and choose a hairstyle that makes a widening part less noticeable. Use wigs or extensions, or shave your head. Talk with a hair stylist for ideas. These approaches can be used to address permanent or temporary hair loss.

If your hair loss is due to a medical condition, the cost of a wig might be covered by insurance.

Wigs and concealers:

Do you feel uncomfortable taking medication? Does your schedule limit the amount of time you have for treatment? Is the cost of treatment, which insurance generally will not cover, too expensive?


If you answered yes to any of these questions, your dermatologist may recommend a wig or concealer.


While these cannot slow hair loss or help you regrow hair, they can boost your self-esteem. Another advantage is that a wig or concealer offers immediate results.


Many types of wigs, including ones that can be custom-made for you, are available. If you’re looking for a concealer, such as a spray or powder that can hide hair loss, you’ll find many products available online. With endless choices, it can be helpful to have a dermatologist guide you in selecting one.

Ways to cope with hair loss:

It's also important to address the psychological impact of hair loss. If you've lost your hair, even temporarily, life will be easier if you can accept what's happened and learn to live with your altered appearance.


Here are some useful self-help tips:

  • Join a support group. There are groups around the country where you can meet and socialise with other people with alopecia.

  • Accept it. It's not easy, but try to deal with your hair loss. One way to do this is to list all your good qualities and focus your energy on celebrating these attributes.

  • Talk about it. Discuss your hair loss with your friends, family, and loved ones, preferably early on. Let them know how you feel about it and what kind of support you need.

  • Cover up. You can look into disguising and covering up your hair loss with things like wigs, hair extensions, scarves, and make-up. Persevere until you find a product and style that suits you.

  • Equally, you may prefer not to cover up at all.

  • If you have hair loss that you find difficult to cover up (around 50% hair loss or more), or your hair loss is a result of cancer treatment, you may opt for a wig. Some people may choose to wear head garments or wigs as a way to cope with hair loss. Others work with their aging hair by wearing a shorter haircut that may make thin hair less apparent.

  • If hair loss is affecting your relationship with your partner, going to therapy or couples counselling may help.

  • Be patient. Hair loss in women is often temporary. That said, regrowth is unpredictable and can take years. Remember that your new hair can be any texture and colour.

  • Avoid miracle cures. Do not be taken in by claims for wonder products. There are no cures for female hair loss.

  • While losing hair at a young age may be concerning, hair loss is a reality for many people as they age. One study posted from 2018 noted that up to 75% of females would experience hair loss from androgenetic alopecia by the time they are 65 years old.

  • Many people accept hair loss as a natural part of the aging process.

Benefits of Treatments for Hair Loss in Women:

Hair loss treatments provide several benefits, including:

  • Enhanced self-esteem: Regrowing your hair can restore your confidence in your appearance.

  • Natural-looking results: Whether you receive hair transplants or medication, you can enjoy natural-looking results.

  • Long-lasting results: Procedures such as hair transplants deliver lasting results if you take good care of your body.

  • Quick recovery times: Hair restoration treatments require a short recovery period, so you can quickly return to your routine.

  • Customizable plans: Dr. Jezic can adjust your hair loss treatment to fit your aesthetic goals and specific needs.

  • Improved hair thickness: Treatments can increase hair volume, reverse signs of thinning, and provide a natural appearance.

  • After a treatment for hair loss, you can enjoy thicker, more consistent hair growth.

  • You can maintain your results if you take good care of your body and make lifestyle changes to avoid hair loss triggers.

  • If you have a highly stressful routine, making changes to allow yourself to destress can also support your hair growth.

  • You can enjoy more flexibility with hairstyles and a more youthful-looking appearance, which may increase your confidence.


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How common is hair loss in women?

Many people think that hair loss only affects males. However, studies show that more than 50% of females will experience noticeable hair loss.

The most significant cause of hair loss in women is female-pattern hair loss (FPHL).

This affects about 30 million people in the United States.

Can hair loss in women be prevented?

You can’t prevent all cases of hair loss in women. You can prevent hair loss caused by chemical hair treatments by not using them. You might be able to prevent hair loss by eating nutritious foods that provide necessary nutrients (like vitamins, minerals, and protein) or adding vitamins to your daily routine.

What is the relationship between hair loss in women and menopause?

Your body experiences changes during menopause. This can affect your hair and cause:

  • Hair growing where it didn’t before.

  • The hair is thinning out.

These changes happen due to varying levels of hormones during menopause. In addition, your hair follicles shrink. This makes your hair grow finer (thinner).

What is the outlook/prognosis for hair loss in women?

The type and severity of hair loss you experience may determine the outcome (prognosis). Some types of hair loss are permanent, especially if you have damage to your hair follicles. But not all cases are. For example, anagen and telogen shedding may stop with time. Managing any underlying health conditions improves hair loss. Early treatment of alopecia may reduce the speed of thinning and promote regrowth. A healthcare provider can tell you more about what to expect in your situation.

Who treats hair loss in women?

A dermatologist usually treats hair loss in women.

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When should I see a healthcare provider?

Your hair falls out naturally all the time. It’s expected to lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day.

That said, you should reach out to a doctor if you notice:

  • Hair falling out in clumps (may be evident in your brush, on your pillowcase, or in the shower drain)

  • Hair that doesn’t seem to be growing as fast as it once did.

  • Thinning hair

  • a widening part,

  • patchy hair loss

  • Other symptoms like fever, pain, or fatigue.

You're likely to first bring your concerns to the attention of your family doctor. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in the treatment of skin problems (dermatologist).

See a dermatologist as soon as possible when you notice hair loss. The sooner you get treatment, the more effective it’ll be.

What questions should I ask my healthcare provider?

  • List key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.

  • Make a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements that you're taking.

  • List questions to ask your doctor.

  • Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. 

For hair loss, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

  • What’s the cause of my hair loss?

  • Are there other possible causes?

  • How many strands of hair am I losing per day?

  • What type of hair loss do I have?

  • Is my hair loss permanent, or will it grow back? How long will it take? Will it have a different texture after it grows back?

  • What kinds of tests do I need?

  • What’s the best treatment for me?

  • Should I change my diet or hair care routine?

  • Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?

  • Should I see a specialist? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover seeing a specialist?

  • Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing me?

  • Do you have any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me?

  • What websites do you recommend?

How do dermatologists find out what’s causing hair loss?

To pinpoint the cause of your hair loss, a dermatologist begins by gathering information. Your dermatologist will:

  • Ask questions. It’s important to know how long you’ve had hair loss and whether it came on quickly.

  • Look closely at your scalp, nails, and any other areas with hair loss. This exam provides vital clues about what’s happening.

  • Test the health of your hair. Gently pulling on your hair tells your dermatologist a lot about how your hair is growing and whether it’s prone to breaking.

  • If your dermatologist suspects that the cause of your hair loss could be a disease, vitamin deficiency, hormone imbalance, or infection, you may need a blood test or scalp biopsy. These tests can be done in your dermatologist’s office.

  • Once your dermatologist has this information, it’s often possible to tell you what’s causing your hair loss.

  • Sometimes, your dermatologist needs more information. This might be the case if someone has more than one cause. For example, a woman may have had a baby a few months ago, and this may be causing obvious hair shedding. She may also have early hereditary loss, which isn’t so obvious.

  • No one hair loss treatment works for everyone.

  • Once your dermatologist finds the cause(s), your dermatologist will tell you whether treatment is recommended. Sometimes, your hair will regrow on its own, making treatment unnecessary.

When do dermatologists recommend treatment for hair loss?

While your hair may regrow on its own, your dermatologist may recommend treatment to help it grow more quickly. Sometimes, treatment is essential to prevent further hair loss.

Can I perform treatments for female hair loss on my own?

Over-the-counter products like minoxidil for women can be helpful. Still, a thorough evaluation by a professional is essential for achieving the best outcome and identifying underlying causes for lasting results.

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Are hair transplants for women’s hair loss safe?

Yes, hair transplant surgeries are well-tolerated and have helped thousands of women achieve stunning results.

Will I have scars after treating female pattern baldness?

Follicular unit extraction (FUE) does result in some scarring at the donor sites, but these scars are tiny and non-linear. They are often well hidden beneath the surrounding hair.

Living With:

What are some tips for dealing with hair loss?

There are some things you can do to manage your hair loss and feel more comfortable, including:

  • Changing your hair color. Adding dye can increase strand volume, making your hair seem fuller.

  • Massaging your head. When you wash your hair, use your fingers to massage your head to stimulate blood flow to your scalp and hair follicles.

  • Changing your hairstyle. Cutting your hair shorter or changing your look with layers or new styling techniques can boost your confidence and potentially hide any hair loss.

  • Using different types of shampoo and hair products. Look for a shampoo that adds volume without using sulfate detergents.

When can hair regrow on its own?

Yes, your hair may regrow on its own. This can happen if you recently:

  • Had a baby

  • Recovered from a major illness or had surgery

  • Underwent cancer treatment

  • Lost 20 pounds or more

  • Developed a mild case of a disease called alopecia areata, which causes your immune system to attack your hair follicles.

  • Got rid of psoriasis on your scalp.


  • Your dermatologist can tell you whether your hair may start to grow again on its own.


Sometimes, to see regrowth, you need to make some changes. Changing your hair care (or hairstyle) may help. Some hairstyles and hair care habits can damage hair, leading to hair loss. If your dermatologist finds that this may be causing your hair loss, your dermatologist can recommend changes that will help you stop damaging your hair.


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Summary of the blog:

  • About one-third of women experience hair loss (alopecia) at some time in their lives; among postmenopausal women, as many as two-thirds suffer hair thinning or bald spots.

  • Hair loss in women often has a greater impact than hair loss does on men, because it's less socially acceptable for them.

  • Hair loss in women occurs when they lose more than 125 hairs per day. This can cause shedding, bald spots, and thinning hair.

  • A dermatologist can help you determine what caused your hair loss and recommend treatment options.

  • The main type of hair loss in women is the same as it is in men.

  • It's called androgenetic alopecia, or female (or male) pattern hair loss.

  • In men, hair loss usually begins above the temples, and the receding hairline eventually forms a characteristic "M" shape; hair at the top of the head also thins, often progressing to baldness.

  • In women, androgenetic alopecia begins with gradual thinning at the part line, followed by increasing diffuse hair loss radiating from the top of the head. A woman's hairline rarely recedes, and women rarely become bald.

  • Hair loss regularly affects women and people of other genders. You may experience any one of several types of hair loss, such as hair thinning, a widening part, or patchy hair loss.

  • Advancing age and a family history of the condition are two primary risk factors for hair loss in women.

  • There are many potential causes of hair loss in women, including medical conditions, medications, and physical or emotional stress.

  • If you notice unusual hair loss of any kind, it's important to see your primary care provider or a dermatologist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

  • You may also want to ask your clinician for a referral to a therapist or support group to address emotional difficulties. Hair loss in women can be frustrating, but recent years have seen an increase in resources for coping with the problem.

  • Female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common cause of hair loss in women, but there are many other potential causes.

  • Speak with a doctor about any troubling hair loss, shedding, or thinning you may be experiencing. Your doctor can help determine the cause of your symptoms and put together a treatment plan.

  • There are a variety of treatments for hair loss for females, including over-the-counter (OTC) hair loss treatments, which are generally effective.

  • Anyone experiencing hair loss should consult with a healthcare professional who can diagnose any underlying factors. If a healthcare professional believes there is another underlying cause or the person does not respond well to OTC treatments, they can recommend other treatment options.

  • Treatment options for hair loss typically depend on the cause. They can also vary according to the pattern and location of hair loss. While most causes of hair loss are treatable, some may not be.

  • OTC medications may help reduce hair loss and promote growth. Other types of hair loss may involve treating the underlying cause.

  • If your hair loss is caused by an underlying disease, treatment for that disease will be necessary. If a certain medication is causing the hair loss, your doctor may advise you to stop using it for a few months.

  • Hair loss and thinning in females can happen for a variety of reasons. Treatments can depend on the cause, but may include Minoxidil, light therapy, ketoconazole, and more.

  • There are various treatment options for female hair loss or female pattern baldness, including topical medications such as Rogaine. Other options include light therapy, hormone therapy, or, in some cases, hair transplants.

  • Any medical conditions that lead to hair loss should be treated directly to address the condition, not just its symptoms.

  • That said, many possible medications and treatments are available for female-pattern baldness and other alopecias.

  • A proven treatment for female-pattern baldness is a hair lotion containing minoxidil. After using it, many women see improvements, including a slowing or stopping altogether of balding, as well as thicker hair.

  • Always contact a dermatologist for advice before starting or finishing any treatments or medicine for alopecia.

  • If other treatments (medication, etc.) are not effective, laser therapy or platelet-rich plasma injections may be recommended.

  • In hair transplant surgery, pieces of your scalp tissue with attached hair are typically taken from one area of your scalp and moved to areas of baldness.

  • Eating a nutritious diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help keep hair healthy.

  • Hair loss can be particularly difficult for women. But there are ways to cope.

  • Alopecia can severely affect a woman's emotional well-being and quality of life.

  • Losing your hair as a woman, especially if you're young or at a vulnerable time in your life, can badly affect your confidence.

  • Hair loss, known medically as alopecia, is fairly common. It's estimated, for instance, that around half of women aged 70 years or over experience female-pattern baldness,  the most common type of hair loss, which is thought to be inherited.

  • While hair loss isn’t itself dangerous, losing your hair is an emotional experience. Unwanted changes to your appearance can influence your self-esteem and social life. Some people find comfort in talking with a mental health professional if their hair loss causes discomfort. Others may find relief in changing their hairstyle or wearing a wig.

  • Hair loss caused by stress or hormonal changes, like pregnancy or menopause, may not require any treatment. Instead, the loss will likely stop after your body adjusts.

  • It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any form of treatment for hair loss.

  • Some types of treatment aren’t safe to use if you’re pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or going through menopause.


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Disclaimer:

We tried to provide authentic and updated information on the subject.

This blog is prepared using data compiled from various websites, as mentioned in the blog.

The content given in this blog is only for information purposes.

The information and materials contained in this blog are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product, or treatment.

Information about a therapy, service, product, or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product, or treatment.

It is not intended to serve as medical advice and can not replace medical advice in any form from a doctor or other registered health professional.

It is not a legal or medical document.

Always keep in mind that the particular medications and their dosages are decided by the health care provider (doctor or specialist) as per the needs of the individual. It varies from one person to another.

I am not a health professional, and this blog is not AI-generated, instead, it is manually written. Therefore, I do not take any responsibility (legal or otherwise) for its editing and compiling errors, correctness, completeness, consequences, etc.

Before following anything from this blog, it is strongly requested to consult a specialist, doctor, or healthcare provider. Self-medication can be harmful.

https://www.mayoclinic.org

https://my.clevelandclinic.org

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com

https://www.healthline.com

https://www.aad.org

https://www.hairphysician.com

https://www.drugs.com

My personal opinion:

  • Health conditions and diseases are a part of our lives.

  • Hair loss in women is one of them.

  • I believe in fighting, treating, and defeating any problem that comes into my life.

  • With proper medications and lifestyle changes, we can live a normal life. 

  • It is better to accept our personality as it is.

  • Therefore, try hard to overcome the problem and enjoy life.

  • Best of luck.

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===The end ===


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Syria civil war updates - no end of casualty and instability - Know all about it here (15 March 2025):

Pregnancy - Know about diet, care, and precautions:

Israel - Gaza war updates: Is it genocide and elimination of Palestinians or state-sponsored terrorism in Israel? What is the permanent peace and resettlement plan? Try to find out here. (02 April 2025):

Singapore Visa, Permanent Residency (PR), Citizenship, Work permits, Work passes for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers, students, highly paid professionals, and entrepreneurs (March 2025):