How to Treat Thinning Female Hair

How to Treat Thinning Female Hair
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Women often experience thinning hair as a result of a hormonal change such as pregnancy or discontinuing birth control pills. Sudden thinning hair also can occur in women following an illness or in response to certain medications, such as antidepressants and high blood pressure drugs. If you experience thinning hair, you have options to fight the problem at home or with the help of a medical professional. Talk to your doctor before beginning any hair loss treatment plan to determine the cause of your thinning hair.

Step 1

Start treating your thinning hair as soon as possible. The American Hair Loss Association states that early treatment can help prevent damage to your hair follicles and slow the thinning process quickly.

Step 2

Ask your doctor about trying a topical prescription medication to combat your thinning hair. The American Hair Loss Association states that treating female hair loss with prescription medication may be more effective than similar treatments in men.

Step 3

Get your hormone levels checked by a doctor. If your hormone levels are causing your thinning hair, your doctor can prescribe hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills that may help treat your thinning hair.

Step 4

Stop wearing your hair in a ponytail. Pulling your hair back tightly into a bun or braid can lead to hair loss, especially around your temples. Let your hair hang loose to avoid causing permanent damage to your hair follicles.

Tips and Warnings

  • Avoid chemical hair treatments, such as hair dye. Harsh chemicals can lead to thinning hair. Stop dying or perming your hair to allow your hair follicles to recover. If you have extreme hair loss that is resulting in bald patches on your scalp, talk to your doctor about surgery. Options include hair transplants or scalp reduction surgery.

References

Article reviewed by Debbie C Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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