According to the American Hair Research Society, around 50% of all women start losing their hair by age 50. For some, it will begin in their 20s or 30s. Genetics, stress, pregnancy, menopause, and a poor diet can cause hair loss in women. Hair loss treatment should be customized to the root cause, type, and severity of hair thinning.

What is the hair cycle?

Each one of us has 70,000 - 100,000 hair follicles on our scalp. Each follicle produces 20 - 25 hairs during its lifetime. The hair cycle takes 3 - 4 years from when hair is made in the hair follicles, grows, and falls. Shedding 80 - 100 hairs a day is typical. When someone's shedding rate is higher than production, thinning hair and baldness occurs.

What are the most common types of hair loss in women?

Female pattern hair loss (Androgenetic alopecia)

Female pattern hair loss is the most common type of hair loss in women. It starts with a gradual hair thinning on the top of the head and the temples. Female pattern hair loss is more common in women with a hereditary tendency for thin hair on the mother's or father's side. The best treatment for female pattern hair loss in women would be a minoxidil 2% topical solution or a plant-based DHT-blocking serum combined with a DHT-blocking shampoo and oral hair growth supplements.

Sudden hair shedding (Telogen effluvium)

Sudden hair shedding, aka Telogen effluvium, happens when acute sudden hair shedding occurs. With this kind of hair loss, shedding the hair on the whole scalp takes several days. Common causes for acute hair shedding are a significant illness (COVID, Flu), stressful events, a crash diet, and after childbirth. Telogen effluvium will typically start 6 - 8 weeks after the stressful events and continue for 6 - 9 months. Telogen effluvium can progress to permanent female pattern hair loss in women with a hereditary tendency for thin hair. The best treatment for women with telogen effluvium would be a scalp treatment serum combined with a good treatment shampoo and oral supplements. Adding collagen peptides can further help replenish the micronutrients required for new hair regrowth.

Traction alopecia

Tight hairdos cause traction alopecia (hair loss). The mechanical stress on the hair roots causes areas of thin hair - usually on the edges of the hairline. The best treatment for this hair loss is a change of hairstyle - combined with scalp treatment serum, a good treatment shampoo, and oral supplements.

Alopecia Areata

The typical alopecia areata starts when there are one or more round, bald areas on the scalp. In 90% of cases, the hair will regrow in these areas after 10 - 12 months. For proper diagnosis, consult with a local dermatologist.

What is the effect of hormones on hair growth?

A balanced hormonal environment is crucial for a healthy hair cycle and preventing hair loss, as each hormone has a distinct influence on hair growth.

Androgens (DHT):

• Can lead to hair loss when in excess by causing hair to thin and become sparse.
• High androgen levels are linked to androgenic alopecia, where hair follicles shrink and result in pattern baldness.

Estrogens:

• Help to maintain hair density and extend the anagen phase of hair growth.
• A decrease in estrogen, such as during menopause, can lead to hair thinning due to lessened follicular support.

Cortisol:

• High levels can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle.
• Can induce premature shifting of hair follicles into the telogen phase, resulting in increased hair shedding.

Calcitriol (active Vitamin D):

• Contributes to the creation of new hair follicles.
• Initiates the anagen phase, promoting hair growth and regeneration.

Melatonin:

• Acts as an antioxidant, safeguarding hair follicles from oxidative stress.
• Regulates hair pigmentation, protecting the color and health of the hair.

TSH, T3, T4 (Thyroid Hormones):

• Essential for hair follicle energy metabolism.
• Imbalances, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can disrupt the hair growth cycle and cause hair loss.

What are the best treatments for female hair loss?

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an FDA-approved ingredient for hair loss available in a concentration of 2% for women (and 5% for men). It is one of the most effective treatments for overall hair thinning in women. Minoxidil should be applied twice daily for 4 - 6 months for optimal results.

DHT Blocking Scalp Supplements

DHT-blocking supplements can counteract the effects of DHT on hair follicles. They are a good option for women with androgenetic female pattern alopecia who are not pregnant or breastfeeding. MDhair regrowth supplements are good examples of DHT supplements, specially formulated for women with genetic and age-related hair loss.

The MDhair regrowth supplements contain natural extracts of Saw Palmetto Berry and Pygeum Bark that can prevent the conversion of testosterone into DHT and minimize its negative effects on hair follicles. The supplements also have Maitake and Reishi Mushroom extracts, powerful adaptogens that promote a healthy scalp and new hair growth. Additionally, the supplements feature Ashwagandha root extract, another potent adaptogen that helps regulate cortisol levels in the body. This extract can help control follicular damage and hair loss while reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

DHT-Blocking Scalp Serum

An alternative to using minoxidil is using a high-quality DHT-blocking scalp serum. These scalp serums use active DHT-blocking plant extracts to counteract the effects of DHT on the hair follicles. The best hair care serums will also contain ingredients that stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, essential vitamins and minerals needed for hair regrowth, and act as antioxidants to reduce the harmful effects of toxic chemicals and air pollution.

DHT-Blocking Shampoo and Conditioner

Look for shampoos and conditioners that contain DHT-blocking ingredients. DHT is an androgen hormone that attaches to the hair follicle and is linked to hair loss. Some of the best ones also include ketoconazole ingredients, saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, rosemary oil, and biotin.

Rosemary Leaf Oil

This wonderful-smelling essential oil has been shown to promote hair growth and stimulate the scalp. Try mixing a drop or two of rosemary leaf essential oil into a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil) and massage it into the scalp. Leave on for 10 - 15 minutes before shampooing. Rosemary oil can be found in MDhair's Restore and Regrowth serums, MDhair's Restore and Regrowth shampoos, and the MDhair conditioner.

Vitamins

Vitamins E, D, B6, and folic acid are essential for a healthy scalp and hair regrowth. Vitamin D deficiency can exacerbate hair thinning and cause brittleness, making the hair more susceptible to breakage. It is also a crucial nutrient for immunity, bone health, cell regeneration, and hair follicle production. You absorb most of your vitamin D requirements through the sun, but dietary supplements can also help your intake. MDhair Restore supplements are an excellent example of supplements that can help replenish the vitamins needed for hair regrowth. They include biotin, which is believed to strengthen hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and increase hair density; vitamins C, D, and E, which are required for a healthy scalp and regrowth of healthier, thicker new hair; Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Help hair follicles regenerate and heal faster to produce new healthier hair and Vitamin K2 that can enhance healthy hair regrowth y stimulating blood flow to the scalp; it enhances healthy hair regrowth.

Minerals

Zinc, selenium, and copper are minerals that are essential for a healthy scalp and hair regrowth. Iron levels play a huge part in hair and nail health. Women who do not have enough iron in their bodies may find that it causes hair to fall out in a fashion similar to genetic male and female-pattern baldness. Be sure to fill up iron-rich foods such as spinach, lean protein, peas, and fruits. MDhair Restore supplements are an excellent example of supplements that can help replenish the minerals needed for hair regrowth. They contain Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, Manganese, and Chromium are required for a healthy scalp and the regrowth of healthier, thicker hair, and Calcium, a vital mineral that helps reduce hair breakage, dry scalp, and brittle nails.

Scalp Massage

Regular scalp massages can encourage scalp health, improve blood flow to the area, and increase hair oil production, making the hair stronger and fuller. The best time to massage is in the shower after applying shampoo and conditioner. Gently move your fingers in a slow, circular movement around the head to reduce stress and promote hair growth.

Be Mindful of Styling

You may want to reduce the amount of stress on your delicate strands. Try to avoid hairstyles that pull at the root, such as tight ponytails and buns. You'll also want to be mindful when choosing products containing harsh chemicals. Whenever possible, limit or avoid heat styling entirely, as it can cause damage that leads to shedding and breakage.

Washing Frequency

Under and overwashing hair can impact the volume and feel of your hair. Not washing enough can cause a buildup of product that weighs down hair, but washing too frequently can strip the hair of natural oils necessary for vitality and moisture.

Surgical Hair Replacement

Hair transplantation involves removing single hair follicles from the back of the head and reimplanting them into the scalp area where the hair is the thinnest. This procedure is very lengthy and costly, but the results are natural-looking once it heals. If you are interested in exploring the possibility of a hair transplant, contact your dermatologist for medical advice and consultation.

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FAQs

Q. What triggers hair loss in women, and how can it be identified early?
A. Hair loss in women can be triggered by genetics, stress, hormonal changes (like pregnancy and menopause), and poor nutrition. Early signs include noticeable thinning, a wider hair part, and increased shedding. A dermatologist can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Q. How does the natural hair cycle work, and what's considered normal hair shedding?
A. The hair cycle includes growth, rest, and shedding phases, spanning 3-4 years. Normal shedding is losing 80-100 hairs a day. Exceeding this rate can indicate hair thinning or loss.

Q. Can you explain the different types of hair loss commonly seen in women?
A. Women may experience female pattern hair loss (gradual thinning), telogen effluvium (sudden shedding due to stress or illness), traction alopecia (from tight hairstyles), and alopecia areata (patchy loss). Treatment varies based on the type.

Q. How do hormones influence hair growth and loss?
A. Hormones play a crucial role, with androgens potentially leading to thinning, estrogens promoting density, cortisol affecting the growth cycle, and thyroid hormones impacting metabolism. Imbalances can cause hair loss or thinning.

Q. What are effective treatments for female hair loss?
A. Treatments include minoxidil, DHT-blocking supplements like MDhair regrowth supplements, scalp serums, and shampoos with DHT-blocking ingredients. Vitamins and minerals, along with proper scalp care, also support hair health.

Q. How does minoxidil work for women's hair regrowth, and what are the expected results?
A. Minoxidil, an FDA-approved treatment, stimulates hair growth and increases thickness. Women should apply a 2% solution twice daily, with optimal results visible in 4-6 months.

Q. Can diet and supplements really make a difference in hair health?
A. Yes, a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins supports hair health. Supplements like MDhair Restore can replenish nutrients needed for hair regrowth, including biotin and vitamins D, E, and B.

Q. How does a DHT-blocking scalp serum benefit hair loss?
A. DHT-blocking serums use plant extracts to counteract DHT's effects on hair follicles, promoting healthier scalp conditions and stimulating regrowth. They're an alternative to minoxidil, especially for those sensitive to it.

Q. What are some lifestyle tips for preventing further hair loss?
A. To prevent hair loss, avoid tight hairstyles, reduce stress, limit heat styling, and choose gentle hair care products. Regular scalp massages can also promote circulation and hair health.

Q. Is hair transplantation a viable option for women, and what should one consider before opting for it?
A. Hair transplantation is a lengthy and costly procedure but can offer natural-looking results for thinning areas. It's important to consult a dermatologist to discuss suitability, risks, and expectations.

 
References

1. American Hair Loss Association
2. Androgenetic alopecia
3. Topical menthol increases cutaneous blood flow.
4. Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: a review
5. Tretinoin enhances minoxidil response in androgenetic alopecia patients by upregulating follicular sulfotransferase enzymes.

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