Hair Loss in Women - Why, When and How do We Treat

As a skin & hair specialist in Chembur, I understand the significant emotional impact hair loss can have on individuals. Hair doesn’t have a direct functional value in humans; however, when hair loss occurs, it can cause substantial distress, indicating the emotional value hair holds in our lives. The impact of hair loss, or alopecia, on a woman's psyche can be profound.

Let’s first distinguish between normal hair loss and alopecia.

Typically, losing fewer than 50–70 hairs per day is considered normal shedding, which is non-persistent and doesn’t cause noticeable thinning. However, when hair shedding exceeds this amount over several weeks or months, it is referred to as alopecia. In the initial stages of hair loss, one may not notice a decrease in hair volume or visible scalp (baldness). Baldness generally occurs when one loses 50% of scalp hair.

Causes of Alopecia in Women

1. Genetic Factors: Hereditary patterns of hair loss.
2. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like polycystic ovarian disease, menopause, and aging.
3. Medical Conditions: Thyroid issues, autoimmune diseases, scalp infections, scalp psoriasis, and uncontrolled diabetes.
4. Medications: Drugs for chemotherapy, acidity, migraines, and long-term medications can lead to hair loss.
5. Hairstyles and Hair Cosmetic Procedures:
   • Tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia.
   • Repeated use of hot irons, bleaching agents, or chemicals for hair styling can cause breakage-induced hair loss.
6. Nutritional Deficiency: Poor diet, frequent out-of-home food consumption, irritable bowel disease, or skipping meals can contribute.
7. Postpartum Hair Loss: Postpartum hair loss is a common experience for new mothers and is typically a temporary condition. During pregnancy, high levels of hormones like estrogen prolong the growth phase of hair, making it thicker and fuller. After childbirth, hormone levels drop, causing more hair to enter the shedding phase (telogen effluvium).

Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)

Among the various causes of hair loss in women, the most common is genetic—specifically Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL). About 30–40% of women in India suffer from this condition, which typically begins in the late 30s or 40s. However, some women may notice signs as early as their 20s.

If medical conditions like thyroid disease or an unhealthy lifestyle are present alongside FPHL, hair loss can be profound. Female Pattern Hair Loss is a progressive condition, meaning that women who do not seek treatment are likely to experience ongoing hair loss.

As a skin & hair specialist in Chembur, I emphasize the importance of early diagnosis. Excessive shedding is often misdiagnosed as telogen effluvium. For accurate diagnosis, a high-quality special instrument called a trichoscope is used. Over time, some women may develop widespread thinning across the scalp, which can be effectively managed with early intervention.

Stay tuned as we learn how to manage hair loss in women. If you’re seeking guidance or treatment, consulting the best dermatologist in Chembur can make all the difference.