According to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), hair loss affects approximately 20 million women in the United States. The most common causes of women's hair loss are genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances, but other causes can include stress, diet deficiencies, medications, immune system problems or skin conditions. Many types of women's hair loss are temporary or can be treated.
Hereditary
A family history of female pattern baldness is often the cause for hair loss in women. Excessive loss of hair isn't the culprit, it's the fact that hair doesn't grow back as fast or in some cases not at all. Women who have an immediate family member with male or female pattern baldness are more likely to have hair loss as they age. Female pattern baldness is usually more pronounced around the crown or top of the head.
Hormones
Hormonal changes can cause hair loss in women. Pregnancy, birth control, menopause and thyroid problems can all contribute to hair loss. In the case of temporary hormonal changes such as pregnancy, thyroid issues or stopping or starting birth control, the hair will usually grow back on its own once the body regulates itself. During menopause, women tend to produce less estrogen. Unfortunately, menopausal women also tend to produce more male hormones such as testosterone, which is linked to hair loss.
Diet
Diet deficiencies or rapid weight loss can cause hair loss in women. Women on extended low-protein or low-iron diets often experience thinning hair. Many crash diets that advocate quick weight loss are deficient in proper proteins, vitamins, minerals and even fats. When diet is the cause, hair loss can usually be reversed with proper diet and in some cases vitamin or mineral supplements.
Medications and Skin Conditions
Women experiencing sudden and inexplicable hair loss, particularly in patches, should visit their physician to rule out skin conditions or medication/chemical reactions. Many skin conditions that cause hair loss are fungal and can be treated. Ringworm of the scalp involves scaling, itching and in many cases hair loss. Some medications can cause hair loss in women. Cytotoxic medications that kill cells are often hair loss culprits. Women who experience hair loss after starting a new medication should consult a physician about possible alternative treatments.
Immune System
Diseases that affect the immune system can cause hair loss. Alopecia areata is a condition where the body's immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Women with autoimmune conditions such as diabetes or lupus often suffer from thinning hair as well.
Stress
Stress can affect hair loss and hair growth. Temporary hair loss due to physical stress after an illness or surgery is not uncommon. Emotional stress can be a factor in hair loss as well. Therapy or treatments to reduce stress will often help, and the hair will grow back. A more severe stress related cause for hair loss in women is trichotillomania. Individuals suffering from this condition pull or tug their hair excessively, resulting in bald patches. Some people suffering from trichotillomania may not realize that they are pulling their hair out, while others will try to hide the condition. There are treatments available for this condition that may include medications along with therapy.
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