Thinning Hair In Women: Causes And Cures

While male pattern baldness is quite commonly known and accepted, the fact remains that women also suffer from chronic hair thinning.

Hair is a part of us, and one of our most attractive features. Most women panic at the thought of losing their hair. However, one in four American women do suffer from thinning hair.

Unlike male pattern baldness, female hair loss does not happen due to hair falling out in patches. Instead, women's hair gets thinner over time. You might have the same amount of hair, but because it is thinner, it looks less dense. And extremely thin hair does not grow beyond a certain point which is why some women tend to have hair "fuzz" near their part-line.

Women's hair loss is less sudden then men's. While it's easy to notice a sudden bald patch, most women notice their hair loss over time, as they realize that their part is becoming wider, or their ponytail thickness is decreasing.

The cause of women's hair thinning is attributed to a number of reasons. In a few rare cases it is due to illness - so always get a checkup first. You can also see a dermatologist in addition to a GP. Most of the time, hair thinning is caused due to iron deficiency, estrogen levels or stress. So the cure lies in tackling those root causes.

Make sure you get enough iron, and try to reduce your stress. However, when that fails you may wish to try estrogen-regulatory drugs. Discuss this option thoroughly with your doctor before going ahead. One of the most effective drugs in this respect is Avodart, but is is usually not covered by insurers. Avodart can create problems if you intend to have a baby, so make sure you discuss this with your doctor. Rogaine is FDA-approved and has been proven to help people with hair thinning and baldness.

And of course, you can do your best to prevent hair thinning and excess hair fall by treating your hair gently. Learn how to wash your hair properly, try not to tease it or brush it excessive, avoid extra-tight ponytails and other styles that put tension on hair and remember that hair dye penetrates thinner hair more quickly. In addition you should avoid stiff-hold hairspray, since you are likely to break hair when you brush through the hairspray; opt for flexible hold hairspray instead, and use volumizing shampoo.