Though more commonly associated with men, hair loss can be problematic for women of all different ages. It can be the result of a variety of underlying problems, ranging from hormonal fluctuations and disease to physical or mental stress and side effects from certain medications. Other potential causes of hair loss include aging, pregnancy, nutritional deficits from eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, and hereditary baldness. Regardless of the exact cause, hair loss in women is a source of concern. Fortunately, there are ways you can restore and protect your hair against future loss.
Step 1
Keep your hormones in a state of balance. Understand that hormonal imbalances can contribute to hair loss, particularly when your estrogen levels become imbalanced because of menopause or other significant life changes. Know that an underactive or overactive thyroid gland could also contribute to your hair loss. if you notice that are losing hair following a pregnancy, realize that this could be a result of a temporary hormonal shift. Talk with your doctor about your hair loss to determine whether hormones are the cause of your problem. If they are, ask your doctor to provide you with options for rebalancing your hormones, such as thyroid medications or hormone replacement therapy.
Step 2
Be gentle with your hair treatments and styles. Avoid tight hairstyles such as tight ponytails or cornrow braids, as these can create extra strain on your hair follicles, causing your hair to fall out. Understand that these hairstyles can actually scar your scalp and make your hair loss permanent. Avoid harsh chemical treatments like hot oil treatments and perms, as these can also scar your hair follicles, leading to hair loss. If you must continue to receive these hair treatments, do so sparingly. Make sure you receive hair treatments from professional hair care experts.
Step 3
Take minoxidil (Rogaine) pills, now available for women and men alike. You can get these pills over the counter at a drugstore; take them every day to stimulate hair growth and prevent against future hair loss. Understand that the only problem with taking these pills is that if you stop taking them, your hair might start falling out again.
Step 4
Ask your doctor to give you a test to diagnose the underlying conditions of your hair loss. Know that female hair loss could be the result of a certain disease, such as diabetes or lupus, or due to a condition like low iron in your blood. Find out the underlying cause of your hair loss to adequately treat the conditions creating it; this is the best way to prevent future hair loss.
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