Feb 28 2009

Uncovering The Facts About Women’s Hair Loss

There are currently more than 25 million women in the United States, who suffer from premature thinning of the hair. In some cases the effect of losing one’s hair can trigger severe depression. The most common causes of hair loss in women are related to pregnancy, poor diet major surgery, severe stress, thyroid disease, chemotherapy, high fever and other infections. The hair loss associated with these conditions tend to be temporary and resolve once the root cause is addressed.

Unlike men who often become completely bald, women typically experience significant thinning of the hair, especially around the crown of the forehead and scalp. This usually begins at the onset of menopause. As women age, their skin changes due to reduced estrogen levels, causing thinning of the hair. In early menopause, women have lower levels of estrogen and testosterone is available in higher concentrations resulting in a reduced growth cycle of the hair. Finally, there is hair loss. At the age of 70 to 80, a women’s hair follicles shrink to the point where no hair growth occurs.

Experts claim that the typical growth pattern of hair is at approximately one inch per month. The hair growth pauses for a while and starts to fall, but rise again soon. This cycle continues until maturity. However, a group of hormones called androgens interfere with the natural process of hair growth. According to dermatologists, the androgen dihydrotestosterone, or DHT is detremental to hair growth. When dihydotestosterone comes into contact with enzymes in the cells of the hair it binds with receptors deep in the follicle. The increasing concentration of DHT causes the follicles to shrink. Some follicles are shrink and die off resulting in significant hair loss.

Whatever the cause of hair loss in women, it is still very difficult to accept. After all, many people believe that hair accentuates a women’s beauty. Lack of hair will drastically change the way a person looks. If your hair loss is inevitable, it may be a good idea to seek treatment. The best hair loss solutions should be used as soon as you see your hair starting to thin. Keep in mind some remedies require the supervision of a doctor. There are two products currently approved by the FDA for the treatment of hair loss. They are minoxidil and finasteride, also known as Propecia. These are the only drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat hair loss in the U.S. Other methods that require the help of dermatologist are surgery, hair implants, and low level hair laser treatment. Concealment of hair loss may also be an alternative. You could use a wig or toupee to help hide the thinning hair.

As you can see there are many things that can cause thinning of the hair in women. Fortunately, there are effective treatments that provide you with ways to stop thinning hair.

Gain helpful advice about women’s health – study quoted publication.


 

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