Understanding & Treating Hair Loss in Women

Written By deziree worster

Why Am I Losing My Hair?

Hair loss in women is common and can be caused by:
✔ Hormonal Changes (PCOS, menopause, pregnancy)
✔ Nutrient Deficiencies (low iron, vitamin D, or biotin)
✔ Stress & Lifestyle (physical or emotional stress, poor diet)
✔ Medical Conditions (thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases)
✔ Genetics (Female Pattern Hair Loss)

 

🔍 Common Types of Hair Loss in Women:

  • Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss – FPHL) → Progressive thinning, especially at the crown.

  • Telogen Effluvium → Temporary shedding due to stress, illness, postpartum, or deficiency.

  • Alopecia Areata → Autoimmune-related patchy hair loss.

  • Traction Alopecia → Due to tight hairstyles.

  • Scarring Alopecia → Rare, requires dermatological evaluation.

🩺 Tests to Consider Before Prescribing:

  • Ferritin & Iron Panel

  • Thyroid Function (TSH, T3, T4)

  • Hormone Panel (Testosterone, DHEA, Estrogen, Progesterone)

  • Scalp Examination (Dermatoscopy, Biopsy if needed)

 

Treatment Options for Hair Loss

1. Medications & Prescription Treatments

💊 Minoxidil (Rogaine®) – FDA Approved

  • Available in 2% or 5% topical solution/foam

  • Applied to the scalp once or twice daily

  • Takes 3-6 months to see results

  • Can cause mild scalp irritation or shedding at first

💊 Oral Minoxidil (Low-Dose, Off-Label)

  • Taken daily in pill form (0.5–2.5mg)

  • Used for patients who prefer not to use a topical solution

💊 Spironolactone (For Hormonal Hair Loss)

  • Helps block excess androgens (hormones that shrink hair follicles)

  • Taken once daily (50-200mg)

  • Not safe during pregnancy; may require potassium monitoring

💉 Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

  • Uses your own blood plasma to stimulate hair growth

  • Series of 3-6 treatments over several months

💊 Finasteride (For Postmenopausal Women, Off-Label)

  • Blocks DHT, the hormone linked to hair loss

  • Typically used at 1.25mg daily

 

2. Supplements for Hair Health

🌿 Nutrafol, Hair Vitamin,  or Viviscal – Supports hair growth with vitamins and DHT blockers
🌿 Iron & Ferritin Supplements – If your levels are low
🌿 Biotin & Collagen – May strengthen hair but won’t regrow lost hair

 

 

3. Natural & Lifestyle Tips for Hair Growth

✔ Scalp Massage with Oils (Rosemary, Peppermint, Castor Oil)
✔ Microneedling (Dermaroller) – Boosts treatment absorption
✔ Reduce Heat & Chemical Damage – Avoid frequent heat styling and harsh dyes
✔ Stress Management – Meditation, yoga, and good sleep help regulate hormones
✔ Protein-Rich Diet – Eggs, fish, lean meats, and leafy greens support hair growth

 

 

What to Expect & When to See Results

  • First 2-8 Weeks: Possible shedding (this is normal!)

  • 3-6 Months: Early regrowth (fine baby hairs)

  • 6-12 Months: Noticeable improvement in thickness and volume

  • 12+ Months: Maximum results (continued maintenance is key!)

deziree worster
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