Why do women lose their hair?

Men aren’t the only ones who suffer from hair loss. Female pattern hair loss (or FPHL) occurs approximately 50% of women by the time they turn 50. Sometimes it presents itself as shedding, but over time it’s characterized by the thinning of hair density over the top of the scalp.

A lot of research has been done to determine what triggers hair loss in women. So what are the causes?

Menopause – Estrogen is one of the hormones that support hair growth. During menopause, estrogen levels in the body lowers and also affect how strong or how quick hair grows.

Poor Diet/Nutrition – Hair becomes more fragile and more susceptible to damage when the body is low in protein and calcium. Iron and vitamin D also help regulate how healthy the scalp and hair are.

Physical Handling – Pony tails, tight buns, braids and cornrows can damage the hair and can possibly cause traction alopecia. Hair relaxers, dyes and bleaching can also cause the same condition.

Stress – Temporary shedding of hair occurs sometimes when someone experiences a stressful or traumatic situation. This can be the body’s natural response to being stressed. However if the shedding persists for a long time, it is recommended to seek professional help from a dermatologist.

Illness – Some diseases of the thyroid, diabetes, and lupus are some of the diseases that can cause hair loss. Fungal infections and polycistic ovary syndrome (PCOS) also have the same symptoms.