A Guide to Female Hair Loss

Hair loss usually occurs because of hormonal factors. As aconsequence, biological events like puberty, pregnancy andmenopause that effect female hormone levels can also causefemale hair loss. In the case of pregnancy, hair loss is simplya consequence of the stress the body undergoes during labor andshould stop approximately 6 months after birth. Discontinuationof taking birth control pills can also cause temporary femalehair loss.The most common type of female hair loss is androgeneticalopecia or female-pattern baldness. This type of hair loss isassociated with hair thinning predominantly over the sides andtop of the head. Female hair loss affects about one-third of allsusceptible women and usually onsets after menopause although itcan begin earlier. Other causes of female hair loss include dieting. Rapid weightloss over a short period of time promotes hair loss and somesupplements such as excessive vitamin A also contribute to hairloss. Physical and emotional stress can cause hair loss but thisusually only occurs when the trauma is excessive and of a longduration. Everyday stress does not promote hair loss. Some common myths related to female hair loss are that frequentwashing and shampooing, and wearing of wigs and hats all causehair loss. In addition, rumors abound that permanents, coloring,and other cosmetic treatments can cause permanent hair loss.Other myths are that brushing your hair everyday will createhealthier hair, that shaving your head will cause hair to growback thicker, and that stress causes permanent hair loss.Finally, other myths are that there is a cure for female-patternbaldness and that dandruff causes permanent hair loss.These are just a few common myths associated with female hairloss. If you experience excessive hair loss, you should see alicensed dermatologist for a thorough diagnosis and treatmentoptions.