Hair loss and baldness in women

Hair loss and baldness are topics often associated with men, but they also affect many women. It can be an emotionally charged subject because hair is an important part of one's identity. In this blog, we delve deeper into hair loss and baldness in women, including possible causes, treatments, and tips for dealing with this issue. We have a close collaboration with dermatologist/trichologist Ids Boersma, to whom we have already referred many of our Insiders fans to. Read on to see if this could be an option for you.

Hair loss in women: A common problem

Although hair loss in women is less commonly discussed than in men, it is indeed a common problem. Many women (even 50%) experience hair loss at some point in their lives, and this can have various causes. Hair loss can range from mild to severe forms, and it is important to understand what the possible causes are and how it can be treated.

Possible causes of hair loss in women

1. Genetics: Hereditary factors play a significant role in hair loss, even in women. Women can experience hereditary hair loss, known as female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).
2. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations can cause hair loss. This can occur during pregnancy, menopause, or with hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
3. Stress: Prolonged stress can cause hair loss by disrupting the hormonal balance.
4. Medical conditions: Some medical conditions such as thyroid problems, autoimmune diseases, and anemia can cause hair loss.
5. Medication: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy, can have hair loss as a side effect.

Treatments for hair loss in women

1. Topical treatments: Minoxidil is a topical medication that can stimulate hair growth and is available as a 2% and 5% solution. It is applied to the scalp and can help slow down hair loss and stimulate new hair growth. Although minoxidil is generally safe for use in women, it is important to consult a doctor before starting treatment. This is especially important if you have other health problems or are taking medication, as minoxidil can sometimes interact with other drugs.
2. Oral medication: Finasteride is a medication that is sometimes prescribed for female pattern baldness, although it is not as effective in women as in men. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can reduce hair loss.
3. Hair transplantation: For women with severe hair loss, hair transplantation may be an option. This involves moving hair follicles from a donor area to the affected area.
4. Diet and lifestyle: A healthy diet rich in nutrients such as iron, proteins, vitamin A, C, and E can promote hair health. Avoid stress and implement relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.

Dealing with hair loss: Tips and advice

1. Seek professional advice: If you are experiencing hair loss, seek advice from a dermatologist/trichologist or a hair specialist. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend suitable treatment. We can potentially refer you.
2. Talk about it: Hair loss can be emotionally burdensome, so talk about it with friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your feelings can greatly help in coping with the situation.
3. Be patient: Hair growth can be slow, and it may take some time before you see results from treatments. Be patient and stay consistent with your treatments.
4. Choose the right hair products: Use hair products specifically designed to protect the hair to the maximum (think of our My Hero Wonder Spray) and to make the hair appear fuller and thicker when styling (think of our Supernatural Thickening Cream). Furthermore, avoid aggressive chemicals and heat styling tools that can cause further damage.
5. Find a good hairstylist. A good hairstylist can not only listen well and analyze and diagnose the problem but can also come up with the right cutting and styling techniques to make your hair appear thicker. Here too, we would like to refer you to one of our affiliated salons.

In conclusion

Although hair loss in women can be a challenging problem, there are treatment options available and ways to cope with it. By seeking professional advice, being patient, and implementing self-care practices, you can promote the health of your hair and regain your confidence. Contact us via [email protected] if you would like more information or to be referred.