Female Hair Loss - Finding the Underlying Cause

This topic has been a recurring concern in the clinic in recent months, causing significant distress as many individuals feel dismissed when bringing this concern to their healthcare providers.

While a gradual decrease in overall hair density is a natural part of aging, about 40% of women experience more significant hair loss at some point in their lives. The human scalp has approximately 100,000 hair follicles, each constantly cycling between growth and rest, with shedding occurring during the resting phase.

Significant emotional or physical stress can simultaneously push a significant number of follicles into the resting phase, resulting in a condition known as Telogen effluvium. This type of hair loss is abrupt, diffuse (occurs all over the head rather than in patches) and temporary, typically manifesting about 3 months after a stressful event.

Stressors can include major negative life events, prolonged periods of stress or even a serious illness or infection. Stress-induced hair loss is temporary. It will regrow, but the process takes time. It can take up to 6 months for the shedding process to come to an end. With a growth rate of approximately 2.5cm per month, the returning hair will be fuller at the scalp than at the ends for a long time.

Other potential causes of hair loss in women include: Nutrient deficiencies, PCOS or Excess Androgens, Thyroid dysfunction, Medications, Hormonal Changes and Autoimmune processes.

Dealing with hair loss is understandably distressing. And while it might be tempting to load up on the numerous supplements and hair products promising magical regrowth, it is really, really important that we determine the underlying cause specific to you.