We shed up to a hundred hairs a day and this is completely normal. Although permanent ladies’ hair loss can happen, most hair loss is temporary and it is thought that as many as 60 per cent of us experience female hair loss at some stage in our lives. So while it is important to be aware of the first signs of ladies’ hair loss, some of the causes are quite common, and can be easily addressed.
If you are experiencing ladies' hair loss, the best thing to do is to visit our experienced consultants at the London Centre of Trichology for a free diagnosis where we can advise you on the various options. We have seen an increase in female hair loss, especially in women below the age of 40, however, the sooner you address the problem, the better the results and this applies for both men and women.
Meanwhile, here’s our guide to some of the causes of temporary ladies’ hair loss.
Ladies Hair Loss - Contact us now to book your free consultation.
Poor Diet
Poor diet can contribute to hair loss and hair thinning, such as iron or mineral deficiencies or a lack of vitamin B12 and zinc. Lack of sufficient nutrients can also cause the hair to become more brittle and break.
One of the most common causes of hair loss in women who are premenopausal is down to an iron deficiency. We find that clients with an iron deficiency can usually see an improvement in the condition of their hair in as little as a few months after receiving diagnosis and treatment.
Pregnancy
Hair loss post-pregnancy is quite common and can affect about half of new mums. This is because the usual shedding of hair is put on hold during pregnancy, so after pregnancy, when the hormones return to their normal levels, the hair can fall out and sometimes all in one go.
Post-pregnancy hair loss usually happens within the first four months after delivery. However, this is only temporary and the hair will usually return to its normal growth pattern within a year (sometimes as little as six months).
Rough Brushing
Rigorous brushing can cause the hair to fall out, or it can damage the hair, making it snap or break. Although it is common for us to shed hair on a daily basis, over-enthusiastic brushing should be avoided. Again, pulling the hair too much or binding it tightly in elastic bands can cause hair loss.
This is all preventable and there are a number of steps to take to avoid this. Try not to brush your hair when it is wet, as this can cause it to snap. Instead take gentle care with your hair and, if you do need to brush it while it is still wet, use a wide tooth comb to prevent damage.
Medication/The Contraceptive Pill
Various types of medication can potentially cause hair loss but oral contraceptives are particularly implicated in hair shedding.
This is because the common forms of oral contraceptive contain progestogens, man-made hormones that mimic the natural hormone progesterone.
These are needed to prevent a fertilised egg being implanted but although many are good for the hair, others aren’t so good.
It is important to be aware of any gradual changes and, if you are worried about hair loss, you may want to change to an alternative form of contraception that is hair friendly. A visit to the London Centre of Trichology will be able to diagnose the problem and following a change in the pill, treatment will usually work quite quickly.
Thyroid Problems
Hair thinning can be caused by an over or underactive thyroid and this is something that can run in families.
This is because it interrupts the usual timing of the hair cycle - where the hair rests for three months before shedding. But with thyroid problems this rest period can be as little as a few weeks.
The hair loss due to thyroid problems is only temporary and, once the problem is treated, the hair will grow back as normal.
Stress
It is only in very rare incidences that stress causes permanent hair loss and most incidences are treatable.
The condition will usually clear up by itself although treatment is available.
If you are experiencing hair loss as a result of stress, it is time to slow down. Make sure you get adequate sleep, breaks and rest period, and regular exercise is also proven to help reduce stress.
Skin Conditions
Some skin conditions, such as adult cradle cap, which is known as Pityriasis Amiantacea can cause hair loss.
This is because the scaly crust sticks to the scalp, around the hair shaft, preventing normal hair growth. However, with the right treatment, the condition can be rectified and the hair can re-grow.
Ladies Hair Loss - Contact us now to book your free consultation.
