Hair Loss and Baldness in Women

There are many causes of hair loss in women and it is important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. While some doctors have good knowledge of hair loss, some are less well-informed and may be unsympathetic as it is considered a ‘cosmetic’ issue. Infact, hair loss can be deeply distressing and cause anxiety and depression in many individuals. The best person to see for advice is a hair loss specialist who will be able to diagnose the condition and discuss suitable treatment options.

Androgenetic Alopecia
The most common reason for hair loss is a genetic predisposition to the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which attacks the hair follicles. This often starts when a woman is in her 30s and results in an all-over thinning. Approximately 50% of women develop permanent Female Pattern Hair Loss and the thinning can become more severe during the menopause. While the scalp becomes more visible, women tend not to go bald, as with Male Pattern Baldness. However a small percentage of women do experience baldness. This condition can be successfully managed using a tailored treatment programme.

Telogen Effluvium
Another common condition in women is Telogen Effluvium. This occurs when certain hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase where they remain for three months before being shed. During this time there is no new hair growth and after the hair has fallen out, there may be visible bald patches. The hair follicles do this when a person undergoes some kind of stress such as an emotional upset, an illness, taking medications, childbirth or rapid weight loss. In many cases this is a temporary condition and the hair growth cycle will return to normal 6 to 12 months after the event. However this condition can trigger permanent Female Pattern Hair Loss. Some people choose to treat the condition in order to help restore an optimum hair growth cycle. Again, a tailored treatment programme prescribed by a specialist is the best route to seeing results. To see how this can help, take a look at one woman’s video diary for hair loss treatment post-pregnancy.

Diffuse Thinning
There are certain medical conditions which can cause a type of hair loss called Diffuse Thinning. Thyroid problems, blood disorders, or serious nutritional deficiencies can cause an excessive amount of hair to fall out. Stress may also be a contributing factor. Once the underlying cause(s) are being managed, it is possible to treat the hair loss and prevent further shedding.

Hair Loss Treatment Programmes
A Belgravia hair loss treatment programme is based around Minoxidil, the only product for female hair loss that has been shown to be both safe and effective. Minoxidil is a vasodilator which means that it relaxes the blood vessels. It is believed that as result, more blood (and nutrients) flow to the scalp which increases hair growth. This is not a concrete theory though as other vasodilators do not have the same effect. Experts also think that Minoxidil opens up the potassium channels which has a beneficial effect on the hair follicles.

If you would like to see a specialist to discuss hair loss treatments, contact the Belgravia Centre for a free consultation by calling 020 7730 6666 or by messaging the centre. Alternatively, complete the online diagnostic form and a treatment advisor will contact you over the next 2 working days.

More Information
Female Pattern (genetic) Hair Loss
Telogen Effluvium
Diffuse Thinning

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