While just about everyone has heard the term male pattern baldness, many people do not realize that there is a form of alopecia that affects women as well. Female pattern baldness is a condition that millions of women have. It is characterized by widening of the part, general thinning of the hair, and a reduction in the overall volume of the hair.
Many women are left confused by female pattern baldness. They may feel that they are alone, or may not understand the underlying causes of the alopecia that they are experiencing. Let's take a look at exactly what female pattern baldness is, the symptoms, the causes, treatment options, and other aspects.
The Symptoms of Female Pattern Baldness
While it is normal for every person to lose up to 100 hairs per day, some women may find that they are losing hair excessively. Often times, the first sign is that there is a widening in the part of the hair. Also, they may notice that their once thick hair is significantly thinner, and there may be a lot of hair in their hairbrush.
There are three types of female pattern baldness that women experience:
- Type 1 - which is minimal and is a small amount of thinning.
- Type 2 - which is widening of the part.
- Type 3 - severe thinning where the scalp is clearly visible.
What Causes Female Pattern Baldness?
This is the first question on any woman's mind when she experiences this condition. Most often, female pattern baldness is hereditary, inherited from either the mother's or father's side of the family. Many women also experience the loss of hair after they reach menopause, suggesting that the androgenetic alopecia may be due to hormonal changes in the body. While the condition is confusing to women at any point in their life, no matter the cause, it often affects those in their 40's, 50's, and beyond. Over two-thirds of the female population experience hair loss, or female pattern baldness, at some point in their lives. It can also be caused by certain medications or medical treatments.
What Should I Do If I Think I Am Affected?
If you are noticing that your hair is getting considerably thinner, the best thing that you can do is to immediately visit your doctor or dermatologist. While testing normally is not needed to diagnose androgenetic alopecia, the doctor will examine the scalp to see if female pattern baldness is, in fact, the cause of the hair loss. In some cases, a blood test will be performed if the doctor feels that the loss of the hair is due to another condition.
What Are My Options?
While minimal hair loss can easily be concealed, those who are experiencing more severe thinning hair may be left wondering what they can do to make their hair appear thicker, and more voluminous. Women who are affected by female pattern baldness need not worry, as there are several options available to them. At New Image Hair Clinic, we have many options available that can be of tremendous help. Solutions include Laser Therapy, Invisistrand Extensions, Wigs, Topical Thickening and Regrowth Products, and many more. Our dedicated and professional staff will listen to your concerns and work to find the solution that is right for you. At New Image Hair Clinic, we understand that female pattern hair loss is difficult. We work with each client to identify her personal needs and make her feel as comfortable as possible. All of our solutions are simple and effective, and with many options, there is something for everyone. For a one-on-one consultation, contact us today.