There’s no question that losing your hair can be life-altering. Our self-esteem and confidence are typically tied in with appearance, including hair. For women, the idea that luxurious hair is feminine, alluring, and attractive is widespread, making the loss of it a significant blow to self-image. Some women become less social and hide out when they start losing hair. It becomes even harder to deal with when they seek support and understanding of the condition, yet don’t see themselves reflected in the popular literature or marketing.

Unfortunately, plenty of products promise thicker, restored hair in the absence of clinical evidence. Without addressing the real medical issues behind the problem, women are heavily marketed to when it comes to beauty product promises. Have you ever seen a drugstore shampoo with “thicker hair” printed on the label? If your problem is androgenic alopecia – an inherited sensitivity to the effects of androgens (male hormones) – then shampoos containing extra vitamins will lead only to disappointment.

There are numerous temporary and medical causes for hair fallout in women. That’s why a consultation with an experienced hair transplant surgeon is critical to assess your condition and direct you to the best solution.

Issues that lead to hair loss for women may include thyroid hormone imbalances, anemia, post-partum hormone fluctuations, and menopause. Because of hormonal disruption, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is also linked to female hair thinning. Medications like contraceptives, blood pressure pills, steroids, or antidepressants are on the list. A relatively common cause of temporary hair fallout can be severe stress or crash dieting (starvation diets).

Traction alopecia describes the damage and eventual loss of functioning follicles on the scalp where consistent tension has been applied. Unlike many of the others listed, this cause of balding can be permanent, warranting a hair transplant for women.

A consultation is the best step you can take. Dr. Cory Torgerson will meet with you to discuss your concerns and possible solutions. We know how painful and anxiety-producing the loss of hair can be for women. We’ll first evaluate some of the reasons for your condition, and Dr. Torgerson will ask essential questions. You’ll then be presented with treatment solutions, which may be surgical or non-surgical. Sometimes these work hand in hand, and you can select the personalized combination of care that meets your needs and works for you.

Women who experience sudden, dramatic hair loss along with menopause or who see the condition in their relatives may try a variety of methods to slow or replace the hair they lose. Sadly, many of these just don’t work and come with unwanted side effects. A few alternative options that women have tried in the past include oral prescription drugs, topical medications applied to the scalp daily, wigs, and hair weaves (which can pull more hair out).