Hair loss is medically defined as alopecia. The most widespread and generally permanent form of alopecia is pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia. According to the Mayo Clinic, one-third of both women and men are afflicted by this condition. The loss of hair in women can be caused by factors such as hormonal imbalances, the overuse of chemicals or nutritional deficiencies.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Female-pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is usually recognizable by a thinning of the hair at the front, sides or crown of the head.The Mayo Clinic says female-pattern baldness also restricts hair growth and may cause hair to lose its thickness. The front hairline is generally preserved. Unlike male-pattern baldness, the complete loss of hair in women is extremely rare.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is defined as a sudden and temporary loss of hair, says the Mayo Clinic. It usually occurs in response to a highly stressful event, such as a death in the family or a major illness. A woman who suffers from this condition may discover clumps of hair while washing or combing. Telogen effluvium typically results in a general thinning of the hair, rather than obvious bald spots. Hair usually grows back once the situation or condition has passed.
Nutritional Factors
Poor eating habits, rapid weight loss and/or extreme dieting may also lead to the temporary loss of hair. Kids Health.org says people who battle eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia often lose their hair because their diets lack the necessary protein, vitamins and minerals to maintain normal hair growth.
Hormonal Influences
Hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy, menopause and in women who take oral contraceptives may cause temporary hair loss. If a hormonal imbalance causes an overproduction of the male hormone testosterone, a thinning of hair over the crown may result. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) says hormonal-related hair loss may respond to hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Chemical Damage
The chemicals in hair coloring, bleaching, perming and straightening products can cause split ends and hair breakage when used improperly. In addition, the AAFP says hot oil hair treatments may inflame the hair follicle, which can result in hair loss.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that results from over styling or wearing hairstyles like pigtails or pony tails that pull your hair too tightly. Hair growth should return to normal once you stop tugging on your tresses. However, the Mayo Clinic says if these practices have lead to scarring on your scalp, hair loss may be permanent.
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