Reasons For Early Female Hair Loss

Although hair loss occurs frequently in both sexes, it is psychologically much harder on women. Bald men are sometimes regarded as sexy, or they may be subject to good-natured teasing; but in any case, baldness in men is considered normal. Women often turn to their hairdressers for advice, but hair loss is sometimes caused by treatable medical conditions. If your hair is thinning, see your doctor to learn about your options.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Female pattern baldness is a frequent cause of hair loss in women. Its scientific name is androgenetic alopecia. Passed down through the genes, androgenetic alopecia is the same condition that most often causes men to lose their hair. The condition is more common in older women, but according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, female pattern hair loss may start as early as the late teens or early 20s. Unlike the hair loss experienced by men, female pattern hair loss rarely manifests in the kind of baldness that leaves the top of the head completely bare. Instead, the hair on the scalp thins out considerably, and the remaining hair is wispy and difficult to style. Female pattern baldness is often treated with minoxidil, the same popular hair growth prescription that men use, but in a lower concentration. It's often sold under the brand name Rogaine.

Telogen Effluvium

The type of hair loss known as telogen effluvium is frequently triggered by major stresses such as nutritional deficiencies, surgeries, severe emotional disorders or hormonal problems, according to the American Hair Loss Association. Telogen effluvium may occur at any age, including childhood. In telogen effluvium, an abnormal number of hairs shift into the "telogen" or shedding phase. According to the "New England Journal of Medicine," women with telogen effluvium may shed up to 300 hairs per day. The hair loss associated with this condition frequently occurs six weeks to three months following the stressful event. The hair will usually grow back after the stressful situation is resolved, but in some women, telogen effluvium becomes a chronic condition.

Traction Alopecia

Tightly pulled ponytails, braids and cornrows may cause temporary or permanent damage to the scalp and hair over time. This condition is known as traction alopecia. It may even occur in teenagers, but it is an easy form of hair loss to prevent. Refrain from hairstyles that constantly pull at the hair. If you must wear them, alternate with styles that are less taxing to your hair and scalp. Hair lost through traction alopecia usually grows back, but tight hairstyles on a long-term basis can irreparably damage the hair follicle.