There are many causes of hair loss in young women. Though it is more common for men to experience hair loss, this disorder, called alopecia, is common to both sexes. Causes are both genetic and acquired, and cures can be found for some of forms of alopecia--especially if the reason is not based on genetics--reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Genetics
People are predisposed to hair loss based on their genes. The DNA acquired at conception sets the stage for later hair growth and hair loss for both men and women. There is no way to alter hair loss caused by genetics.
Aging
Hair loss increases with aging in both men and women. Adding nutrients to the diet may help stave off hair loss, according the the University of Maryland Medical Center. Even young women can experience hair loss if they are genetically predisposed.
Hormones
Hormones are a cause of hair loss in women. Androgenetic alopecia is a specific type of hair loss that is caused by the mechanism that converts the hormones testosterone into dihydrotestosterones or DHT. This mechanism is decided on by the DNA, and usually affects men, however women can lose their hair from this hormonal condition as well.
Hair Products
Hair products can contribute to hair loss in young women. Hair dyes can cause hair loss, as can chemicals used to straighten or to curl hair, like a permanent wave treatment. Some shampoos can damage the scalp and cause hair loss as well. Most of the time, this type of hair loss is reversible once use of the damaging products is discontinued, especially in healthy young women.
Drugs
Certain drugs can cause hair loss in men and women of any age. Steroids cause hair loss, as can some antibiotics, according to the American Hair Loss Association. Drugs for acne treatment can cause hair loss, as can cholesterol lowering drugs and drugs used to treat epilepsy, depression, fungus and gout. High blood pressure medication can cause hair loss, as can drugs for ulcers, thyroid disorders and Parkinson's Disease. It is best to ask your prescribing physician about possible side effects when starting a new medication.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism causes hair loss in half of the sufferers of this disease. The University of Louisville states that people with hypothyroidism have an anti-thyroid antibody that causes hair loss, as well as cramps, weight gain, stiff muscles and low body temperature. Many women have thyroid problems that can contribute to hair loss at a young age, and blood tests are not always reliable in detecting this condition. Instead, doctors use basal body temperature and a reflex test to diagnose the problem.
Member Comments