Is your hair thin or sparse? You’re certainly not alone: An estimated 30 million American women will experience hair loss during their lifetime, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 40 percent already show signs of it by age 40. But, this doesn’t mean you’re powerless in fighting this condition; with so many women affected by hair loss, you have a wide array of solutions available. In this article, learn about the differences between men and women’s hair loss as well as the factors that trigger this condition in females. Finally, read about some promising new oral, topical and daily treatments.

Contributing factors

Contrary to popular belief, women’s hair loss isn’t the same condition that men experience. Women develop thinning tresses or hair loss for many reasons, such as:

• Hormonal imbalance. Sex hormones called androgens – such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – are a common cause of hair loss. They attach to hair follicles and shrink them, causing existing hair to fall out. Unfortunately, new hair may grow in at a slower rate – or not at all – and follicles can even die from too much DHT, dermatologist Michael Reed, M.D., tells WebMD. Hair loss can also result from other hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome. In some cases, hair loss is the only visible indication of the hormonal condition.

• Chemical treatments. Having your hair dyed, permed, straightened or relaxed may contribute to hair loss.

• Medications. Some medications may cause hair loss, including those that treat “gout, arthritis, depression, heart problems and high blood pressure,” according to Mayo Clinic. Chemotherapy and steroid drugs may also be responsible for hair loss.

• Medical problems. Conditions like diabetes, lupus and thyroid issues are associated with hair loss.

• Vitamin and mineral deficiency. A deficiency in iron, essential fatty acids, vitamin B12 or zinc may contribute to hair loss, according to WebMD. To maintain thick, healthy tresses, load foods like eggs, meat, nuts, oils and broccoli onto your plate, or you could take a supplement. Biotin is especially crucial for re-growing hair. Dr. Reed advises a daily dose of three milligrams.

Understanding hair growth
To fully understand how the natural process of hair growth – which includes a bit of natural hair loss – review the following phases of healthy hair development:

• Growth or anagen phase: According to eMedicine, 85 to 90 percent of scalp hair is currently in a growth phase. A hair will generally stay in this phase for two or more years.

• Transitional or catagen phase: One or 2 percent of hair is in this phase, which generally lasts just a few weeks.

• Resting or telogen phase: Shedding typically occurs during this phase, which lasts for three months. Ten to 14 percent of hair is in this phase.

Normally, after a hair falls out of a follicle, a new strand begins growing in its place, and the cycle begins again. This growth pattern ensures that the scalp is always covered by healthy new hair. When the hair follicle suffers trauma or damage, however, this cycle can be disrupted, making hair appear thinner. Also, when a higher percentage of hair follicles are in the resting phase, hair may seem thinner.

Male hair loss vs. female hair loss

These are some key differences in how men and women lose their hair. They include:

• Location: Men often lose hair around their temples and “the bald spot in the back,” dermatologist Ted Daly, M.D., explains to WebMD. In contrast, female hair loss is more widespread over “the whole top of the head,” he notes.

• Age: Although men typically lose their hair as they get older, women can lose their hair at any age. In fact, hair loss can occur as early as 20 years old, typically because of a genetic predisposition, according to the AAD.

Targeted treatments

Today, with so many women needing treatment for hair loss, you have a variety of effective options available. Here are a few promising solutions:
Oral treatments

• Finasteride, the active ingredient in Propecia, was first used for prostate conditions and then male hair loss. It may help female hair loss by blocking certain hormones associated with hair loss.

• Oral contraceptives reduce androgen production from the ovaries. As such, they’re used to treat androgenetic alopecia (a very common genetic type of hair loss). But some oral contraceptives contain high androgen levels, which can actually trigger hair loss. Be sure to talk to your doctor about an appropriate formula.

• Androgen blockers consist of many drugs from different categories. They’re often used for treating other conditions, like fluid retention or stomach ulcers.

Topical treatments

• Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine. This topical foam is available in 2 and 5 percent concentrations, but studies show that the 5 percent concentration is better at preventing hair loss and re-growing new hair. Dermatologists usually prescribe the higher strength for women with severe hair loss.

• Ketoconazole treatments are generally prescribed for fungal infections, scalp problems or dandruff. However, because it lowers testosterone production, ketoconazole can also treat hair loss. The 1 percent formula is available over the counter, and a doctor can prescribe higher strength formulas. 

Daily treatment solutions

Here are other products to tackle thinning tresses and hair loss:

• Shampoo and conditioner: Bolster hair follicle health with shampoos and conditioners designed for hair growth. DS Laboratories Revita Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo features antioxidants and copper peptides to nurture existing hair plus encourage new growth. Follow up with DS Laboratories Revita COR Hair Regrowth Stimulating Conditioner.

• Treatment: Address hair loss, promote new hair growth and add moisture with Phyto Phytocyane Revitalizing Serum. Strengthen weak strands from the inside out. Rene Furterer Vitalfan Dietery Supplement - Progressive incorporates minerals and vitamins to encourage hair growth. It contains biotin, silica and L-Cysteine.

If you’re female and concerned about hair growth, don’t be embarrassed to talk to a doctor about treatment options – especially if you’ve tried over-the-counter formulas and aren’t seeing any results. The sooner you find an effective treatment, the easier it’ll be to stop the cycle of hair loss and restore a healthy head of hair.

See also:

A Deeper Understanding of Women's Hair Loss: Causes and Treatments for Thinning Hair

Men’s Hair Loss: Not a Losing Battle

Hairstyles, Hair Products and Acne

6 Hair-Saving Tips for Damaged Locks