Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. Pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, affects more than 30 percent of women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Androgenetic alopecia is linked to both hormonal imbalances and genetics. Pattern baldness in women typically causes an overall thinning of the hair, with the most recession occurring on the front, sides or crown of the head. Although hair loss isn't curable, there are a number of treatment options available that can stimulate hair growth and/or reduce the appearance of hair loss.
Treatments
Step 1
Minoxidil (Rogaine) is an FDA-approved over-the-counter treatment for male- and female-pattern baldness. Available in liquid or foam, Minoxidil is massaged into your scalp twice a day. It can take up to 12 weeks to see the full effects of this treatment. You may also notice that the regrowth is thinner than your former hair. Minoxidil comes in 2 percent and 5 percent solutions. The milder concentration is recommended for women. The National Institutes of Health says minoxidil may stimulate hair growth in 25 percent of female cases, and almost always slow the rate of hair loss.
Step 2
If you are dissatisfied with the effects of minoxidil , hair transplantation is another possible treatment for a receding hairline in women. Hair transplantation works by moving hair follicles from another part of the body (such as the back of your head) and inserting them into the thinning areas. Since hair loss will persist over time, numerous transplant sessions may be necessary.
Step 3
Scalp reduction surgery is the most invasive means by which to treat the signs of a receding hairline in women. A scalp reduction consists of literally cutting back the area of skin where your hair has waned. The Mayo Clinic says skin is flexible and can be stretched to allow for a portion of it to be removed. During a scalp reduction technique known as a flap, your doctor folds hair-bearing skin over the areas where hair has receded.
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