Causes of Hair Loss in Woman

Much like the growth of grass, plants and other vegetation is dependent on what goes underneath the soil, the growth on your head is dependent on what goes on inside the scalp. Given normal conditions for hair loss and fall cycle, women would enjoy normal hair. The problem occurs when something messes with the normal cycle of hair. This could be genetic, hormonal disturbances, diet deficiencies, reaction of skin conditions to medications, immune system problems and stress.

Causes of hair loss in women are –

Genetic

History of hair loss in the family is very often the cause of hair fall in women. Such hair loss is usually female pattern baldness. Every individual loses hair everyday but the problem arises when it does not grow back. Female pattern baldness is generally more accentuated at the crown or top of the head.

Hormonal

Some hormonal changes lead to hair loss in women. These changes can occur during pregnancy, birth control, problems of thyroid and menopause. In case of some temporary hormonal changes such as pregnancy, start of hormonal contraception or thyroid problems, the hair grows back as soon the hormonal processes return to normalcy. As women produce less of oestrogen during menopause, and more of hormones such as testosterone, hair loss can naturally result.

Diet deficiencies

Women can lose hair when they lose weight rapidly due to deficiency in diet. This is one of the reasons why crash diets are inadvisable. The diets low in protein and iron make the hair thin. If lack of proper nutrient intake is the cause of hair loss, it can be reverted by improving the diet and replenishing those nutrients.

Stress

Stress is linked to hair loss and hair growth. Emotional and physical stress can both be a cause of hair loss. There is a particular condition called trichotillomania. These individuals try to pull their hair out from time to time and leave a bald patch on their head. Some of them do not even realise what they are up to while others consciously hide this tendency from other people. Such people need to undergo treatments such as therapy and medications.

Immune Problems

Conditions affecting the immune system can cause hair loss. Alopecia areata is a condition that affects the body’s immune system in which the hair follicles are attacked. Other conditions which can lead to hair loss or hair thinning are diabetes and lupus.

NOTE: For more on hair loss and how to take care of it, click on the image on the top right on my blog.