About 1/3rd of women experiences hair loss at some point in their lives, and for many, it’s more than just a cosmetic concern—it’s a signal from within. Could your hormones be the hidden culprit behind your thinning strands? And how much does your lifestyle, stress, or even your diet play a role? Let’s dive in and unravel the real story behind female hair loss—what causes it, how to spot it, and what you can do to take control.
What is hair loss
Hair loss in women is characterized by losing more than 125 hairs per day, resulting in thinning hair, shedding, and bald spots. Hair shedding is part of a natural balance that allows other hair to grow in. However, an interruption in this balance, where hair falls out and less hair grows in, can cause hair loss (medically called alopecia). Generally, humans shed between 50 – 100 single hairs per day. Due to various factors, some females experience unexpected heavy hair loss, such as more than 125 hairs per day. Hair loss in women often has a significant impact than hair loss does on men, because it affects emotional well-being and quality of life.Causes: PCOS, thyroid, postpartum
The following are the possible causes of hair loss in females, including:- Stress
- Changes in eating habits (rapid weight loss)
- Chemical hair treatments
- Damaged hair follicles
- Treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy
- An underlying health condition like anaemia, abnormal thyroid, vitamin deficiency, etc
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, postpartum)
- Certain medications and supplements
- Genetic predisposition
Relation between hair loss in women and pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause?
- Pregnancy: During this time, high estrogen levels boost the hair’s growth phase (anagen), preventing normal shedding.
- Postpartum: There will be a sudden drop in estrogen levels after childbirth, causing a large number of hairs to shift into the resting (telogen) phase and enter the shedding (exogen) phase and fall out, as more hair grows in pregnancy. While this postpartum hair loss is usually temporary (short-term), it is recommended to consult a doctor to rule out other causes like thyroid issues or nutritional deficiencies, particularly if hair doesn’t recover.
- Menopause: In this stage, there will be a significant drop in the levels of progesterone and estrogen, disrupting the natural hair growth and leading to hair shedding.
Cycles of hair growth:
Actually, hair goes through four cycles, including: Anagen (growing phase): It can last from 2 to 8 years, where the hair follicles are pushing out hairs that will continue to grow until they’re cut or until they reach the end of their life span and fall out, referring to about 85% – 90% of the hair on the head. Catagen (transition phase): It takes about 2–3 weeks; hair follicles shrink and hair growth slows, referring to 1%–3% of the hair on the head being in the catagen phase. Telogen (resting phase): It typically lasts around 2–3 months, a phase where the hairs don’t grow and don’t fall out, referring to the 9% of the scalp hairs in this phase.Types of hair loss in women
There are 3 main types of hair loss in women.- Androgenetic alopecia/female pattern alopecia/female pattern hair loss (FPHL)/baldness: This is the most common type of hair loss in females, where hair thins over the top of the head and on the sides.
- Causes: Genetics, PCOS, tumours that increase androgen levels
- Anagen effluvium: This type causes hair to become narrowed and break from the scalp, which is caused due to certain medications.
- Causes: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy, some antidepressants, or exposure to certain toxins, including some heavy metals like mercury and thallium, or severe infections (less common cause)
- Telogen effluvium: It is a form of temporary, non-scarring hair loss that happens when a significant stressor pushes a large number of hairs into the telogen (resting) phase, causing them to shed a few months later.
- Causes: Hormonal shifts (postpartum changes), physical or emotional stress, and underlying conditions such as thyroid imbalances or iron deficiency.
Treatment options: minoxidil, PRP, nutrition
When it comes to treating female hair loss, a combination of medical and non-surgical options can be considered based on the root cause. Here’s a breakdown: Medical options:- Hormonal therapy: For women with hormone-related hair loss, doctors may prescribe hormone-balancing treatments like estrogen, progesterone, spironolactone, or anti-androgens to restore hair growth.
- Minoxidil: A widely used topical solution that helps stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss.
- Other medications: Finasteride and other alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitors, prostaglandin analogs, and steroids, often used under medical supervision for targeted treatment.
- Microneedling: Microneedling creates tiny micro-injuries on the scalp, triggering the body’s natural healing response and stimulating the production of growth factors and collagen, hence increasing the absorption of topical hair loss treatments.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A natural, regenerative treatment where your own platelets are injected into the scalp to boost circulation and hair growth.
- Level laser (low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices): LLT has been recommended to stimulate hair growth in women, improve hair density, and support scalp health.
- Hair transplant surgery: For women with significant hair thinning, this surgical option offers a permanent, natural-looking solution by transplanting hair from fuller areas to thinning spots.
Cosmetic solutions and wigs
Hair loss in women can be emotionally challenging, but there are several cosmetic solutions that can restore confidence and enhance appearance. From quick fixes to long-term styling aids, here are some options:- Topical Concealers (Hair Fibers & Sprays): These are coloured powders or sprays that cling to existing hair, making thinning spots look fuller instantly.
- Scalp Makeup or Camouflage Products: Specially formulated creams or powders blend with the scalp to reduce the contrast between skin and hair.
- Hair Thickening Shampoos & Conditioners: These products temporarily plump up the hair strands, giving the appearance of more volume and density.
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- Volumizing Hairstyles & Blowouts: Certain haircuts and blow-drying techniques can add lift to the roots and visually reduce the look of thinning.
- Wigs & Hairpieces: Wigs offer a more comprehensive way to cover hair loss, whether partial or complete.
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- Full Wigs: Cover the entire scalp and are ideal for advanced hair loss. Available in synthetic or natural hair options.
- Toppers or Wiglets: Smaller pieces that clip onto thinning areas, perfect for early to moderate hair loss on the crown or part.
- Hair Extensions: Can add volume and length, though best suited for those with some natural hair left. It should be used with care to avoid further hair damage.
Self-esteem and support
Coping strategies for managing self-esteem- Develop a positive mindset
- Engage in self-care
- Grooming and fashion
- Embrace self-compassion
- Seek role models
- Positive affirmations
- Mindfulness practices
- Build a support network
Conclusion:
Hair loss in women is a common yet often distressing condition influenced by hormonal changes, genetics, stress, and medical factors like PCOS or thyroid issues. Understanding the type and root cause of hair loss is key to choosing the right treatment—ranging from topical medications and hormonal therapy to advanced options like PRP, microneedling, or hair transplants. Alongside medical care, cosmetic solutions and emotional support play a vital role in restoring confidence. For proper diagnosis and personalized care, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist.FAQ’s for Female Hair Loss: Hormonal Causes, Modern Treatments and Hair Growth Solutions
If you’re shedding more than 125 hairs a day or experiencing sudden thinning, bald spots, or prolonged postpartum shedding, it’s time to consult a doctor.
Identify and treat the root cause—whether hormonal, nutritional, or stress-related—using targeted treatments like minoxidil, PRP, or hormonal therapy.
Focus on self-care, supportive styling (like wigs or concealers), and mental wellness practices such as positive affirmations and building a support system.
The best treatment depends on the cause—minoxidil for general thinning, PRP and microneedling for stimulation, and hormonal therapy for hormone-related loss.
Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, PCOS, or thyroid issues are among the most common causes in women.
Yes, physical or emotional stress can trigger telogen effluvium, causing a noticeable increase in hair shedding a few months after the stressor.
Androgens like testosterone and DHT, especially when imbalanced, are primary culprits in female pattern hair loss.
Female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common type, often driven by genetics and hormonal imbalances.
