What Causes Hair Fall in Females?
February 29, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Hair loss in females, also known as female pattern hair loss or female-pattern baldness, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes of hair fall in females include:
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can contribute to hair loss.
- Genetics: Female pattern hair loss often has a hereditary component. If a woman has a family history of hair loss, she may be more susceptible to experiencing it herself.
- Androgenetic alopecia: This is a common cause of hair loss in both men and women. It involves the action of hormones called androgens, which can affect hair follicles and lead to hair thinning.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, including thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), autoimmune diseases, and chronic illnesses, can contribute to hair loss.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, can affect the health of the hair and lead to hair fall.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can contribute to hair loss. Severe stress can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously, resulting in increased shedding.
- Certain medications: Some medications, including certain contraceptives, anticoagulants, beta-blockers, and medications used to treat cancer, may have hair loss as a side effect.
- Improper hair care practices: Excessive use of heat styling tools, tight hairstyles (like tight ponytails or braids), and harsh chemical treatments can damage the hair and lead to breakage and hair fall.
- Aging: As women age, the rate of hair growth may slow down, and hair may become thinner. This is a natural part of the aging process.
- Pregnancy and postpartum period: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect hair growth, leading to thicker hair. However, after childbirth, many women experience postpartum hair shedding as hormonal levels normalize.
If a woman is concerned about hair loss, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and possibly blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of hair fall. Treatment options may include addressing any underlying medical conditions, making lifestyle and dietary changes, and using medications or topical treatments to promote hair growth.