A Guide to Female Hair Loss
Hair loss usually occurs because of hormonal factors. As a
consequence, biological events like puberty, pregnancy and
menopause that effect female hormone levels can also cause
female hair loss. In the case of pregnancy, hair loss is simply
a consequence of the stress the body undergoes during labor and
should stop approximately 6 months after birth. Discontinuation
of taking birth control pills can also cause temporary female
hair loss.
The most common type of female hair loss is androgenetic
alopecia or female-pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is
associated with hair thinning predominantly over the sides and
top of the head. Female hair loss affects about one-third of all
susceptible women and usually onsets after menopause although it
can begin earlier.
Other causes of female hair loss include dieting. Rapid weight
loss over a short period of time promotes hair loss and some
supplements such as excessive vitamin A also contribute to hair
loss. Physical and emotional stress can cause hair loss but this
usually only occurs when the trauma is excessive and of a long
duration. Everyday stress does not promote hair loss.
Some common myths related to female hair loss are that frequent
washing and shampooing, and wearing of wigs and hats all cause
hair loss. In addition, rumors abound that permanents, coloring,
and other cosmetic treatments can cause permanent hair loss.
Other myths are that brushing your hair everyday will create
healthier hair, that shaving your head will cause hair to grow
back thicker, and that stress causes permanent hair loss.
Finally, other myths are that there is a cure for female-pattern
baldness and that dandruff causes permanent hair loss.
These are just a few common myths associated with female hair
loss. If you experience excessive hair loss, you should see a
licensed dermatologist for a thorough diagnosis and treatment
options.