Thick and luscious hair is everyone’s dream, but the discouraging reality is that hair loss is becoming increasingly common these days. We have the prejudice that only men suffer from baldness after a certain age, but this does not only occur in men! Hair loss in women is a growing problem and women can lose tons of hair. While aging can be one of the factors that lead to hair loss, there are several other factors that play a crucial role here! Once you know the cause, you may be able to stop hair loss too!
Health Shots contacted Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermatologist, The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai, to know more about hair loss.
What are the most common causes of hair loss in women?
The most common causes of hair loss in women are:
1. Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, childbirth, thyroid problems and menopause are some of the most common hormonal changes that can lead to hair loss. Any hormonal imbalances can lead to hair loss in women. You may need hormonal therapy or medications to address the problem.
2. Genetics
Androgenic alopecia is an inherited condition that can affect some women.
3. Stress
A physical or emotional shock can lead to hair loss in many women. Practicing relaxation techniques can also help manage stress and reduce risks.
Also read: Does stress cause hair loss? Easy home remedies for hair growth
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4. Nutritional deficiencies
Deficiency of biotin, folic acid, vitamin B12 and riboflavin are some of the most common nutritional deficiencies that can lead to hair loss problems. Nutritional deficiencies can be addressed with dietary changes or supplements.
5. Certain medical conditions
Conditions such as alopecia areata or scalp infections may be the cause of the problem that needs to be addressed by your healthcare provider.
6. Medication
Certain medications given for conditions such as arthritis, depression, hypertension, high blood pressure and cancer can increase the risk of hair loss. To change medications, you should consult a healthcare provider.
7. Hair styling practices
With so many hair styling products on the market, it can be hard to resist. But excessive use of these harsh hair products, tying your hair too tightly or certain hair treatments can damage the hair. It is best to get rid of these problems.
How to stop hair loss?
Hair loss can be prevented if you follow these lifestyle changes as suggested by Dr. Rinky Kapoor:
1. Eat a balanced diet
An unhealthy diet and nutritional deficiencies can affect both your hair growth and hair structure, according to a study published in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual. You need to make sure you get enough nutrients, including protein, iron and vitamins (especially B complex vitamins) in your diet. It is one of the best ways to take control of your hair health.
2. Scalp massage
You need to take care of your scalp gently if you want your hair to be healthy and strong. Massage your scalp regularly to improve blood circulation, which will help promote the production of healthy hair. Research has shown that people who regularly perform a scalp massage experience less hair loss.
3. Gentle hair care
Do you spend a lot on hair treatments such as keratin, hair color and more? These harsh hair treatments could be the reason you are experiencing hair loss. You should also minimize the use of heat styling products as they can worsen the situation for people with hair loss. You should also avoid tight hairstyles as these can strain the hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
4. Stress management
Stress is one of the biggest causes of hair loss. A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that stress hormones affect the stem cells essential for hair growth in mice. Therefore, it is important to practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga or meditation to ward off stress.
5. Stay hydrated
We tend to undermine the importance of drinking water. It is essential to drink 2-3 liters of water every day not only to maintain hair health but also to maintain overall health.
Dr. Kapoor says the ability to reverse hair loss naturally depends on several factors, including the underlying cause, genetics and the stage of hair loss. In some cases, natural methods can slow or partially reverse hair loss. Advanced cases or certain conditions may require medical treatment and medications.