Hair loss in women can occur due to a number of genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors. The most common cause is not genetic but actually hormonal. Changes in the hormone levels, such as those with pregnancy, thyroid conditions, menopause, hormone replacement therapy or starting or stopping of birth control pills, can be the major cause of hair loss in women.
Causes
You may have heard that we all normally shed 100 strands per day. But if you find excessive hair draining while bathing or combing, it is important that you see a Trichologist without any delay. The following is a list of factors that contribute to lose hair in women.
Hormonal factors
Hereditary condition is the most common factor contributing to hair loss in women. Hormonal changes and imbalances can also cause hair loss. This could be due to pregnancy, childbirth, stopping birth control pills or during menopause.
Medical conditions
A number of medical conditions can cause hair loss, including:
- Alopecia areata – This disease occurs when the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles causing roundish patches of hair loss.
- Thyroid problems – The thyroid gland helps regulate hormone levels in your body. If the gland isn’t working properly, it may result into hair loss.
- Scalp infections – Infections,such as ringworm, can invade the hair and skin of your scalp, leading to hair loss.
- Other skin disorders – Diseases that can cause scarring, such as lichen planus and some types of lupus, can result in permanent hair loss where the scars occur.
Medications
Hair loss in women can be caused by drugs used to treat the following health issues:
- Arthritis
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Cancer
- Heart problems
Other causes of Hair loss in Women
- Excessive use of chemical based hair care products can cause damage to the hair extensively.
- Many people experience thinning of hair after a physical or emotional shock. For instance, a high fever, a death in the family or excessive weight loss.
- Certain hairstyles can also cause hair loss wherein the hair is pulled too tightly.
- A mental illness names hair-pulling disorder causes people to have an irresistible urge to pull their hair from the scalp and other areas of the body.
