Hair loss is a much more serious problem for women than for men, so you should investigate the issue from the first signs of trouble. Learn about the leading causes of hair loss in women and see what you can do to prevent it.
From health issues to diet problems and hormonal changes, hair is very sensitive to changes in your body and hair loss isn’t always reversible. Fix the problem right after you notice it to make sure you get to keep your beautiful tresses intact.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Iron Deficiency
Even if your doctor says your iron levels are within normal range, lowered iron levels can often cause hair loss. Hemoglobin below 140 g/L can contribute to hair loss, like ferritin, the other iron blood test, shouldn’t get below 40 ug/L, since it directly affects the hair follicles. Eat more red meat, vegetables that are rich in iron or try a supplement to fix the problem.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Mineral Deficiency
A lot of minerals are important for hair growth, but zinc and selenium are the most important. Even if you’re eating fresh fruits and vegetables daily, you may not get enough of these minerals for healthy hair, so try supplements that contain natural extracts designed specifically to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Lazy Thyroid
Hormones play a big part in the health of your hair and when this gland isn’t working properly, the low hormone levels can influence the growth of your hair even if they’re still in normal parameters. If you suffer from any other symptoms that could indicate hypothyroidism, including fatigue, dry skin, constipation, difficulty to lose or maintain weight, make sure your thyroid isn’t the root of the problem.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Telogen Effluvium
There are3 cycles in hair growth, anagen, catagen and telogen with the last one being the lasting one. Telogen effluvium is a phenomenon that shortens the span of the last cycle of hair growth. Caused by pregnancy, extreme stress, extreme weight loss and trauma or surgery, this process can make you lose a lot of hair fast. It can also be caused by medication, so ask your doctor about it.
Causes of Hair Loss in Women: Hereditary Causes
If your hair loss is hereditary and you’ve noticed the same thinning for other women in your family, use minoxidil (Rogaine) to stop hair loss or at least postpone it.