A number of different factors can cause a woman's hair to fall out. Androgenetic alopecia, traction alopecia and alopecia areata are just a few of the conditions that trigger a loss of hair in women. Diet, hormones, diabetes, lupus and certain medications also contribute to female hair loss. Determining the basis of thinning and shedding of hair is essential to stopping the progression of hair loss and stimulating the regrowth of lost hair, according to the American Hair Loss Association.
Step 1
Talk to a doctor or dermatologist to assess the rate, severity and pattern of hair loss. This assessment helps establish the cause, and thereby the appropriate form of treatment.
Step 2
Apply minoxidil to the affected areas of the scalp twice a day if your hair loss is related to alopecia and not illness. Minoxidil is known to help retain and regrow hair in women, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Results are seen in about three months.
Step 3
Talk to your doctor about prescription medications. Spironolactone is a chemical that has been shown to inhibit the production of androgens, which can contribute to the loss of hair, asserts the National Institutes of Health. This ingredient in prescription medications is also known to keep dihydrotestosterone from binding to hair follicles, notes the American Hair Loss Association. Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, causes miniaturization of follicles, which generates hair loss.
Another medication possibility is an oral contraceptive. Hormonal issues causing hair loss can sometimes be corrected with birth control pills. The medication reduces androgen predominance, and therefore stops hair loss.
Slow the progression of hair loss with cimetidine. This oral medication acts like an antiandrogenetic agent in some women, lowering male sex hormone levels and stopping the excessive loss of hair.
Step 4
Undergo hormone replacement therapy if your thinning is associated with menopause. Supplementing the loss of estrogen and progesterone can sometimes stop the excessive shedding of hair.
Step 5
Research corticosteroids injections. Doctors and dermatologists can administer corticosteroids into the scalp once a month to prevent additional hair loss and encourage hair regrowth in women with alopecia areata, advises the Mayo Clinic.
Step 6
Wash your scalp with shampoo containing ketoconazole. This chemical can lower androgen levels on the surface of the scalp in some women, helping to stop hair loss.
Tips and Warnings
- Some women experience hair loss as a result of hair care problems. Make sure braids, ponytails and other hairstyles do not pull the hair too tight, which places stress on the follicles and can trigger the loss of affected hairs. Don't use harsh chemical products, such as coloring, if you experience hair loss or breakage after use. Avoid excessive use of heat appliances such as blow dryers and straightening irons if you are experiencing hair loss.
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