Do you know that hair loss doesn't just affect men? Many women face such problems too.
However, the patterns are quite different between the two genders. When a man starts losing hair, it's usually in patches. For instance, the hairline starts to recede and goes all the way to the back. Or the top of the head starts to reveal a bald patch. But when a woman starts losing hair, the effects are more evenly spread. In other words, there is an overall thinning. What causes hair to fall in women?
Andogenetic Alopecia
Diffuse thinning starts to affect women who are undergoing hormonal changes. This symptom is caused by androgens, which is a male hormone. In women, such hormones are present in tiny amounts. However, due to illness or pregnancy or menopause, the level of androgens can spike, causing problems for the body. Not everyone is affected by this issue though. Heredity plays a big part in the issue.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium occurs when the body undergoes a huge amount of stress. As you know, stress can come from many different directions. A woman can be traumatized by an accident or be stressed out at work. Such stress causes more hair to move quicker to the shedding phase. Fortunately, such symptoms can be relieved once the situation has been rectified. The condition is temporary. This is true for most cases. Of course, there are exceptions. Some women may suffer from the condition for years without knowing what triggers the stress.
Anagen Effluvium
Women who are undergoing some form of treatment such as chemotherapy may be suffering under this condition. This is the medical term that refers to the hair follicles being attacked by other sources - such as radiation or medication. The hair shaft becomes thinner once the treatment begins. It continues to become thinner until it no longer has the strength to remain on the head. Then it falls out. A large portion of the hair can be lost once the treatment starts.
Traction alopecia
This condition affects those who treat their hair carelessly. The follicles are damaged due to careless handling of the hair. For instance, constant pulling of the strands for styling purposes can cause problems. The average person doesn't need to inflict such stress on the strands. So this condition doesn't affect most of us. However, for some people who need to work with their hair on a consistent basis, follicles can be damaged severely. Such people include celebrities, performers, models, etc. To avoid this condition, do not tie your hair too tightly into braids and pony tails.
Knowing the causes of hair loss in women can help you prevent potential problems. Prevention is always better than cure. Usually, when you are in the pink of health, such issues don't affect you as the follicles stay healthy.
Take-away from this article:
1) Eat well to prevent malnutrition.
2) Get plenty of rest so that stress doesn't cause too much damage to your body, scalp and hair.
3) Handle your hair well.
4) Protect your hair with trusted hair tonics!
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