Updated 31/08/2023
There are many different types of hair loss. That can affect men and women alike. For a women the loss can be very different. They can range from mild thinning to total loss of hair. Some can be gradual while others very sudden. Affecting the younger or older, there are no boundaries. For a women to lose their hair is akin to losing their crowning glory. At anytime in life but especially when younger. At a vulnerable time in your life. Loss of hair can severely affect your confidence. For anyone but especially for women, there is a social stigma attached to going bald.
Women’s hair loss can be caused by many different factors. These can include, genetics, stress and a number of medical issues. Hair loss can be temporary in some cases. As a result may regrow overtime. Consulting a hair loss expert is essential if concerned about hair loss. This will ensure the correct diagnosis is achieved. Concluding in the right course of action being taken.
Ludwig Scale
Female pattern hair loss is also called androgenic alopecia. Basically the female version of male pattern baldness. Unlike men though, women tend not to suffer a receding hairline. Instead, the parting widens to expose more scalp. Your can find out more about different type of hair loss here. The Ludwig Scale is denotes the types of hair loss patterns.
There are a few simple things that can help with female pattern baldness. These include:
- Avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hairline
- Avoiding hair tools that use high heat.
- Use hair products targeted to restore hair growth e.g. a topical medication or essential oils
There are not many treatments for hair loss but the main treatments are not prescriptible on the NHS.
A proven treatment for female pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia) is a hair lotion containing minoxidil. After using it, most women see improvements, including a slowing, or stopping altogether, of balding, as well as thicker hair. Up to 25% of women experience hair regrowth while using it. Minoxidil, however, is not a miracle drug. While it can produce some new growth of fine hair in some, if not all women, it can’t restore the full density of the lost hair.
Lots of women who go to seek treatment from their GPs often get dismissed then end up going to see non-medical people, who diagnose female pattern baldness.
Permanent Hair Restoration
For many women and men, the only permanent solution is a hair transplant.
As with any hair restoration surgery, the transplant doesn’t give more hair, but it redistributes the existing hair to give an appearance of thicker, fuller hair More information on hair transplants can be found here. For most people, this is the only viable permanent solution to help restore their confidence.
It is important to seek advice from fully qualified and experienced surgeons as many consultations are carried out by unqualified patient coordinators who may not necessarily give the best possible solution. Always ask to seek advice from the surgeon who will be carrying out the procedure as its very important to get your expectations in sync with reality.
At The Hair Dr, around 20% of our FUE treatments are carried out on female clients. This in popularity in females is due to more social awareness, leading to an increase in our expertise in such cases.
If you have any questions, then please feel free to contact us today on either method T: 0808 169 7210. E: info@hairdr.co.uk alternatively you can book a free consultation via our website.
FAQ’s about Female Pattern Baldness
Is female pattern baldness reversible?
Female pattern baldness is a chronic condition, but its progression can be managed and slowed down with appropriate treatments. While complete reversal might not be possible, early intervention can lead to improved outcomes.
Can hormonal imbalances be a temporary cause?
Yes, in some cases, hormonal imbalances triggered by events like pregnancy or illness can lead to temporary hair shedding. However, if the shedding persists and follows a distinct pattern, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.
Are natural remedies effective in treating female pattern baldness?
While some natural remedies might promote hair health, their effectiveness in treating female pattern baldness is limited. Consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist is crucial for evidence-based treatments.
Can wearing hats or using hair products lead to female pattern baldness?
Wearing hats or using hair products, when done in moderation, generally doesn’t lead to female pattern baldness. However, extremely tight hairstyles or harsh treatments can contribute to hair breakage and thinning.
How long does it take to see results from hair loss treatments?
The timeline for results varies depending on the treatment and individual response. Some people might notice improvements within a few months, while others might require more extended periods to see visible changes.
Is female pattern baldness only hereditary?
While hereditary factors play a significant role, hormonal imbalances and ageing also contribute to female pattern baldness. It’s a combination of genetic predisposition and various triggers.
