Overview
Contrary to popular belief, hair loss does not affect men only. In fact, according to the American Hair Loss Association, women account for nearly 40 percent of Americans who lose their hair. Although it’s normal to shed some hair each day a number of different factors can be responsible for excessive hair loss. Hair care products and hairstyles, stress, pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, fungal infections and certain medications can cause hair loss. In some cases, an underlying health issue may be the source of the problem.
Step 1
Consider the hair care products you use. Chemicals used in perm solutions and hot oil treatments in particular cause swelling of the hair follicles, which can eventually lead to hair loss. Wearing tight hair rollers in your hair, or wearing your hair in styles that pull on your hair, can cause temporary hair loss. If you correct the problem before scarring develops on the scalp, hair will grow back. Otherwise, hair loss can be permanent.
Step 2
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether hair loss could be a side effect of any prescription drugs you are taking. Typically, normal hair growth will resume once you stop the medication. Hair loss can be a side effect of oral contraceptives, antidepressants, anticoagulants or medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Step 3
Slow the progression of female pattern baldness with minoxidil, a topical medication available without a prescription that you apply to the scalp. Patience is needed, as it can take as long as six months before you begin to see any results. Unlike men with male pattern baldness who develop a receding hairline and baldness on the top of the head, female pattern baldness is a type of hair loss in which the hair becomes thin over the entire scalp. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology explains that although female pattern alopecia is genetic, most women who are affected do not begin to notice thinning hair until after menopause.
Step 4
Get a physical exam, as you could have a medical condition that is causing you to lose your hair. An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can cause hair to fall out. Hair loss due to hormonal imbalances generally stops once the problem is corrected. Menopausal women can experience hair loss because of low thyroid function. In some cases, hair loss is an early symptom of diseases like diabetes or lupus.
Step 5
Select shampoos and conditioners fortified with protein. Formulas designed to nourish hair at the roots can leave hair looking fuller and thicker. Many organic shampoos contain vitamins, biotin, saw palmetto and wheat protein to promote healthier hair.
