Top Reasons for Hair Thinning in Women: An In-Depth Analysis

Hair Loss

September 2, 2024 , Last updated: September 21, 2024

About 55% of the global female population experiences hair thinning by age 70. This distressing condition can affect one’s confidence and overall well-being.

While it is a common issue among women, the reasons for thinning hair vary greatly among each individual. The primary causative factor could be as deep-seated as a genetic predisposition or as simple as dietary choices.

This blog delves into an in-depth analysis of the major causes of hair thinning in women and its symptoms and treatments. Read on to determine the potential causes of your hair issues so you can take proactive steps to resolve them.

Understanding Hair Fall in Women

Hair thinning in women is a challenging issue with several aspects and can arise from various causes. To address and manage your hair fall effectively, it is important to understand the specific factors contributing to it. This section discusses the broad and primary factors that almost always play a role in female hair thinning.

Genetic Factors and Female Pattern Hair Loss

Genetic predisposition is often a significant reason for hair fall among women. Women's most common form of genetic hair loss is female pattern hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia. A gradual reduction in the density of hair characterises this condition. The hair loss is most apparent along the hair part, making it wider. It mainly affects the crown and the frontal parts of the scalp. Unlike genetic hair loss in men, this condition causes a diffused hair loss in women, causing significant hair thinning over time but never complete baldness.

A woman can inherit the female pattern hair loss genes from either parent. The effects of this gene often become noticeable after menopause but can also begin as early as in the 20s or 30s.

Hormonal Changes and Imbalances

Hormonal fluctuation is another critical cause of hair loss among women. Various stages of life, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and other conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to hair loss. Oestrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones play a major role in regulating health.

For instance, increased levels of oestrogen can cause your hair to feel thicker and fuller during pregnancy. However, oestrogen levels drop after childbirth, often resulting in significant hair shedding, known as telogen effluvium. During menopause, the decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels leads to a relative increase in androgens, which can result in hair follicles shrinking and producing finer, thinner hair. As discussed further in the blog, thyroid imbalances similarly affect hair volume.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Your diet plays an essential role in maintaining healthy and voluminous hair. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly essential vitamins and minerals, can significantly impact hair health and lead to hair falling out in females. Key nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, zinc, and biotin are crucial for hair growth and strength.

Iron deficiency, or anaemia, is a common cause of hair thinning, especially in premenopausal women. Vitamin D is another critical nutrient that supports the hair growth cycle, while zinc and biotin are essential for maintaining the health of your hair follicles. Deficiencies of these nutrients can result in weak, brittle hair prone to thinning.

Main Reasons for Hair Thinning

As mentioned earlier, the hair fall women experience can be attributed to numerous factors. These are often interrelated and compounding over time. Understanding that there could be more than one reason for thinning hair in females can help you effectively manage your hair concerns and seek the appropriate treatment if required.

This section discusses the main causes of hair fall in women, which can lead to gradual hair thinning.

Age-Related Factors

Hair thinning in women can be a natural consequence of ageing. This typically begins in the 40s or 50s but can start earlier in life. Women experience hair thinning due to age, primarily hormonal changes, particularly decreased oestrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones play a crucial role in maintaining the growth and density of your hair. As their levels drop, the growth of your hair slows, making the strands finer. The hair follicles also shrink around this age, producing thinner and shorter strands. This age-related hair fall in women is gradual and can affect the entire scalp.

Hair Thinning Due to Stress

Hair thinning due to stress is more common than many realise. When your body is under physical or emotional stress, it can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium. This causes many hair follicles to enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to increased hair shedding and thinning. Various stressors, such as major life events, chronic illness, drastic weight loss, or emotional trauma, can trigger such a bodily reaction. It is, however, temporary—the normal growth cycle of your hair once you manage your stress levels.

Medical Conditions

Medical conditions are also among the significant causes of hair loss in females. Several health issues contribute to hair loss, the most common of which are discussed below.

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can result in hair thinning. The thyroid gland is responsible for your body's metabolism and hormonal balance, which are crucial for healthy hair growth. Improper functioning of the thyroid gland can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to thinning hair.

Symptoms of thyroid disorders include changes in weight, fatigue, and changes in hair texture. Look out for these symptoms and seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, alopecia areata, and rheumatoid arthritis, are common causes of hair thinning. These conditions mistakenly cause the body's immune system to attack its tissues, including hair follicles. Alopecia areata, for instance, results in patchy hair loss on the scalp and other body parts. Similarly, lupus can cause inflammation and damage to the skin and hair follicles, leading to diffuse hair thinning.

Treating autoimmune diseases through medication to suppress the immune response, lifestyle changes, and supportive therapies can help promote hair regrowth and relieve other symptoms.

Female Pattern Hair Loss: Symptoms and Treatments

Female pattern hair loss—androgenetic alopecia—is a common condition that affects many women, especially as they age. It is characterised by the gradual falling out of hair in women, primarily on the top and crown of the scalp.

Also, understanding the symptoms of this condition can help you with early detection and treatment, which can slow down the progression of hair loss and even promote regrowth.

Signs and Symptoms

You will notice some distinct symptoms when female pattern hair loss is the reason for thinning hair. These signs are very different from those caused by genetic hair loss in men. The common symptoms of pattern hair loss in females to look out for include:

Widening Part: It is among the earliest and the most noticeable symptoms. You may observe a widening of the parting line on your scalp.
Thinning on the Crown: Diffuse thinning is most obvious on the top of the head, forming a Christmas tree pattern when you part your hair.
Increased Hair Shedding: You may notice hair falling out more than usual during washing or brushing.
Thinner Ponytail: The overall volume of your hair may decrease, making your ponytails appear thinner.
Scalp Visibility: Due to increased and continuous hair fall, your scalp may become visible through your hair, especially when you pull your hair back.

Treatment Options

Treating female pattern hair loss involves addressing the underlying causes and promoting hair regrowth. You can choose from various treatment options to resolve or control this issue. Some of the most common solutions for this condition are discussed below:

Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications often help manage this condition. The FDA approves Minoxidil as an over-the-counter solution for hair fall. Anti-androgens like spironolactone also help regulate hair loss. Consult with a doctor before opting for any medication, as there may be associated side effects.
Low-Level Laser Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses red light to stimulate hair follicles, leading to better hair growth.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy involves injecting plasma rich in platelets into your blood. These platelets are derived from your blood and help stimulate hair growth without causing any adverse effects.
Hair Transplant Surgery: Hair transplant surgery can be a viable option if you have undergone significant hair loss. It involves moving hair follicles from thicker parts of your scalp to thinning areas, providing a more permanent solution to hair loss.
Lifestyle Changes: A balanced diet, stress management, and a regular sleep can prevent hair loss and restore healthy hair growth.
Volumising Shampoos and Conditioners: Volumising shampoos and conditioners are a cosmetic solution that temporarily increases the appearance of your hair volume.

You can also contact Dr Batra's® Clinic to learn more about the best treatment for your hair type and take the necessary action!

Effective Solutions for Hair Thinning

Several effective and proven solutions are available for female hair thinning. The most commonly used hair-thinning solutions are discussed below.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first line of defence against hair thinning. You can also apply these to your scalp to stimulate hair growth and stop hair loss.

Minoxidil: This FDA-approved treatment is available over the counter in 2% and 5% formulations. It stimulates your hair follicles and boosts blood flow to the scalp, which can help regrow hair and slow further loss. The general prescription includes applying it twice daily to the affected areas of the scalp.
Hair Growth Serums: Serums containing peptides, vitamins, and plant extracts nourish your scalp and promote hair growth. Products containing biotin, caffeine, and essential oils, such as rosemary oil, are also famous for their hair-strengthening properties.
Corticosteroid Creams: Topical corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and promote hair regrowth in women with hair thinning caused by inflammation or autoimmune conditions. This medication should be used only under a doctor’s prescription.

Medications and Supplements

In addition to topical treatments, certain medications and dietary supplements can help address the underlying causes of hair fall in women.

Anti-Androgens: Medications such as spironolactone can help reduce androgen levels in your body. Androgens are hormones that can contribute to hair thinning in women. These medications are often prescribed for women with hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS.
Oral Minoxidil: In some cases, oral minoxidil is prescribed off-label for hair thinning. It works similarly to topical minoxidil by promoting blood flow to your scalp and stimulating the hair follicles.
Finasteride: Though typically used to treat males, finasteride is sometimes prescribed off-label for women with severe hair loss. It blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles.
Supplements: Nutritional deficiencies can lead to hair thinning, so that supplements can be beneficial. You can opt for supplements like biotin, iron, zinc, or vitamin D. It is best to ask an expert for the proper dosage and combination.

Hair Care Practices

Proper hair care can significantly impact hair health and prevent further thinning. Adopt a gentle and nourishing hair routine to maintain strength and appearance. Here are some tips to restore hair's health and volume.

Gentle Hair Washing: Use a mild, sulphate-free shampoo to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils. Overwashing can make hair dry and brittle and thus more prone to breakage.
Conditioning Treatments: Regularly use a good quality conditioner to moisturise your hair and reduce breakage. Deep conditioning treatments and hair masks can nourish and strengthen the hair shaft.
Avoid Heat and Chemical Damage: Minimise using heat-styling tools such as hair dryers and curling irons. Excessive heat from these devices can weaken your hair strands. Also, avoid harsh chemical treatments like bleaching and perming, which can damage the hair cuticle.
Scalp Care: Massage your scalp regularly to boost blood circulation and promote healthy hair follicles. Consider using a scalp scrub or exfoliating treatment to keep the scalp clean.
Wearing Protective Hairstyles: Choose hairstyles that do not pull on the hair too tightly, as tension can lead to traction alopecia. Avoid tight ponytails, braids, and buns, which can stress the hair follicles.

Knowing the type and nature of your hair, along with the health of your scalp, can also play a significant part in adopting a hair care routine that suits you the best. This can reduce hair loss in women.

Contact Dr Batra's® Clinic today to identify the underlying causes of your thinning hair and get effective solutions.

Get a hair evaluation test today to determine your hair and scalp health and take the right steps toward resolving your hair issues.

FAQs

What is the main cause of thinning hair in women?

A major reason for thinning hair in women is usually female pattern hair loss, a genetic hair loss condition. Other factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, stress, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases, can also be major contributing factors.

How do you fix thinning hair in women?

Treatments like minoxidil, anti-androgen medications, and hair growth supplements can help fix thinning hair in women. Enhance your hair care routine with gentle washing and conditioning, and avoid heat and chemical damage. For severe cases, consider hair transplant surgery or low-level laser therapy. Consult with your dermatologist for the best solutions for you.

Can thin hair become thick again in women?

Yes! Proper treatment, such as using minoxidil, taking hair growth supplements, and improving hair care practices, can restore your hair volume from thin to thick. Treatments like low-level laser therapy and addressing underlying health conditions can also help reverse the effects of hair loss.

Is thinning hair a vitamin deficiency?

Thinning hair can be caused by a vitamin deficiency, particularly deficiencies in vitamins like biotin, iron, vitamin D, and zinc. However, other factors, such as genetics, hormonal changes, and medical conditions, can also contribute to or cause hair thinning.

Can we stop hair thinning?

Yes, it is usually possible to stop or slow hair thinning with treatments like minoxidil, anti-androgen medications, and hair growth supplements. Maintaining a healthy diet, reducing stress, and following proper hair care can also help prevent further thinning.

Can you fix thinning hair naturally?

You can fix thinning hair naturally by maintaining a healthy diet full of vitamins, reducing stress through yoga and meditation, and using natural ingredients such as essential oils and scalp massages to promote hair growth.