Are you experiencing hair loss, hair thinning, or shedding? Don’t worry, you are not alone in this struggle. Statistics show about 50% of women experience hair loss at any stage in their life. Hair loss in women can be a distressing experience, impacting self-esteem and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are numerous effective measures of hair loss treatment in women.
In this article, you’ll explore 11 proven strategies to address this concern, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical interventions.
Diagnosis of Hair Loss in Women
Before embarking on a treatment journey for hair loss, you must obtain an accurate diagnosis. Identifying the underlying causes of hair loss will help you determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
The following methods can help in the diagnosis of hair loss.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: The first step is to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist or a specialist in hair disorders for tailored recommendations.
Medical History: Your healthcare provider will start by taking a detailed medical history including information about your family’s history of hair loss, any recent life changes or stressors, medications you’re taking, and your overall health.
Physical Examination: A physical examination of your scalp helps identify any visible signs of hair loss, such as thinning areas, bald spots, or changes in hair quality. Your doctor can also pull several hairs from your scalp to know the severity of shedding.
Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your hair loss. These tests may include blood tests to check for hormonal imbalances, iron deficiency, or thyroid problems.
Scalp Biopsy: In rare instances where the cause of hair loss is unclear, a scalp biopsy may be performed. This involves taking a small sample of skin from the scalp for examination under a microscope.
After complete diagnosis doctor will explain the potential causes of your hair loss and the available treatment options.
11 Effective Measures of Hair Loss Treatment in Women
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of hair loss. But the following proven and effective measures will help you address hair loss to regain your confidence. Remember, consistency is the key. None of the measures is overnight magic. Make a strategic approach and stick to it unless you see results.
1. Identify the Underlying Cause
As we have stated earlier, if you have severe hair loss diagnosis is necessary. Understanding the root cause of hair loss is crucial for effective treatment. Consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist to determine if it’s due to hormonal imbalances, genetics, stress, or other factors.
2. Medication
When hair loss becomes severe and other treatments prove ineffective, prescription medications can be a viable option for women. Two commonly prescribed medications for hair loss treatment are finasteride and spironolactone.
Finasteride: This medication is primarily used to treat androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. Finasteride works by inhibiting the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can shrink hair follicles and lead to hair thinning.
By reducing DHT levels, finasteride helps to promote hair regrowth and prevent further loss. It is important to note that finasteride is typically prescribed for men, but some women may benefit from its use under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Spironolactone: Often prescribed to treat conditions like high blood pressure and hormonal imbalances, spironolactone has also shown promise in addressing hair loss in women. It works by blocking the effects of androgens, hormones that can contribute to hair thinning in some women.
Spironolactone is particularly suitable for women with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that can lead to excess androgens.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets from your blood into the scalp. It promotes hair growth by stimulating follicles and improving blood flow.
4. Topical Treatments
Over-the-counter topical treatment containing minoxidil can stimulate hair growth and prevent further loss. Depending on your ease and availability, you can buy the liquid, shampoo, or foam type of minoxidil. To effectively treat hair loss, apply the minoxidil product once a day to the scalp. You have to be patient as the treatment may take six months to reverse hair loss or aid in hair regrowth.
5. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
FDA has approved the laser therapy treatment method for genetic hair loss in women. LLLT devices, like laser combs or helmets, emit low-level lasers that stimulate hair follicles, encouraging growth. Regular use can yield positive results.
If you find it difficult to have hair loss treatment and medication, you can use hair concealers to hide your thin hair or bald spots.
6. Balanced Diet
A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like iron, biotin, and protein supports healthy hair growth. You can consider the following table for healthy diet choices.
| Groups | Sources |
|---|---|
| Protein | Chicken, turkey, beans and lentils |
| Vitamins and Minerals | Eggs, nuts, sweet potatoes, and dairy products |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds and walnuts, |
Creating a balanced diet that incorporates these nutrient groups can significantly benefit your hair.
7. Stress Management
Stress can contribute to hair loss in various ways. It can prematurely push hair follicles into the resting phase, causing excessive hair shedding and noticeable thinning. Even chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, disrupting hormonal equilibrium crucial for hair growth.
Engaging in relaxation techniques can reduce stress levels, such as:
8. Hair Transplant Surgery
For women with advanced hair loss, hair transplant surgery is an option. This procedure involves transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another, providing a permanent solution.
9. Gentle Hair Care Practices
Avoid harsh treatments, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that can damage the hair shaft and scalp. Use mild shampoos and conditioners suitable for your hair type. Try to buy sulfate and parabens-free shampoo and other hair care products.
10. Home Remedies
In addition to medical treatments and lifestyle changes, some women turn to natural home remedies to complement their hair loss treatment regimen. While these remedies may not provide a guaranteed solution, they can promote hair health and may be worth incorporating into your routine. Aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, can be applied directly to the scalp.
Onion juice, rich in sulfur, is believed to stimulate hair follicles. Essential oils like lavender and rosemary can be diluted and applied for hair strengthening. Egg masks and banana masks loaded with protein, can promote hair strength.
11. Supplements
Incorporating supplements into your daily routine can provide essential nutrients that support hair health.
Here are some key supplements to consider:
Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is a B-vitamin that is often associated with promoting hair growth and strengthening hair. It’s available as an over-the-counter supplement and can help improve hair quality.
Iron: Iron deficiency, often linked to anemia, can lead to hair loss. If you have low iron levels, your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements to address the deficiency and support hair growth.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, can contribute to overall scalp health and promote hair strength.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
Quick Tip
Only take supplements when you know you are having a deficiency. Otherwise, taking supplements will be harmful to you as it can lead to poisoning.
