Female pattern baldness is a common problem that is hereditary. Approximately two thirds of women will experience the condition to some degree after menopause — which suggests it is linked to hormonal changes. Also referred to as androgenetic alopecia, the symptoms of this type of aggressive hair loss can be alleviated or reversed if the condition is identified quickly.
The Symptoms of Female Pattern Baldness
Unlike men, who usually lose their hair from the front, women experience hair loss all over their head. According to Healthline, it is not unusual for a woman to lose between 50 and 100 hairs every day. However, those with female pattern baldness can lose hair much more quickly than that.
Women are far less likely to go completely bald like men often do. The problem in women tends to result in thinning all over the head — as a result of the follicles shrinking and producing thinner hair.
Doctors look for three different types of female pattern baldness when investigating the issue. Type I involves a relatively small amount of thinning around the parting. Type II involves a significant widening of the parting, while Type III results in widespread thinning that exposes parts of the scalp.
What Causes Female Pattern Baldness?
This form of hair loss is passed down from parents — and you can inherit the genes responsible from either one. If your mother or father have the condition, your chances of developing it are relatively high.
It’s important to get a definitive diagnosis from a doctor if you’re concerned about sudden hair loss. Female pattern baldness is often the result of an endocrine condition, but it might be a result of a hormone-secreting tumor.
What Treatments Are Available?
Some people can mask the effects of this condition with a new hairstyle, while others simply accept it. However, for many women female pattern baldness can lead to serious mental anguish.
A lot of women can slow the process down with changes to their diet. For example, there is evidence to suggest that taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements alleviates the problem. And taking iron supplements can also help if the condition is being exacerbated by anemia. Other potential solutions include hair replacement systems and wigs.
However you decide to tackle your female pattern baldness, it’s important to have your options explained to you by a hair loss specialist. To schedule a free consultation at one of our three locations click here.
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Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/treating-female-pattern-hair-loss
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/women-hair-loss-causes#1
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hair-loss/coping-tips-for-women/
https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/female-pattern-baldness#treatment