Understanding Hair Growth Cycles
Hair grows from structures under the skin on our heads called hair follicles. These follicles create strands of a protein known as keratin. The growth of hair goes through stages. Active growth, transition and resting. In a cycle that typically spans 2 - 7 years. Most of the hair on our heads is either growing or in the growth phase at any given time while a smaller portion is at rest.
In female pattern hair loss (FPHL) the follicles gradually shrink due to the accumulation of a hormone called DHT around them. This results in weaker strands of hair with each new cycle of growth. Eventually the follicles cease to produce hair altogether leading to noticeable thinning on the scalp. Furthermore aging slows down the process of hair follicle regeneration.
The progression through phases of hair growth is influenced by changes in certain proteins that send signals within our bodies. When these signaling proteins are impacted by factors, whether internal or external it triggers the initiation of the next phase in the hair cycle. Understanding these cycles provides insight into how female pattern hair loss develops over time.
- The anagen phase lasts 2-7 years; catagen just 2-3 weeks; and telogen about 3 months.
- Head hair grows at about 6 inches per year, slower than eyelashes or leg hair.
- Stress, poor health and nutritional issues can accelerate FPHL.
The Role of Hormones
Hair loss in women may occur due to repeated hormonal imbalances. Activity of androgens, related to genetic predisposition, may lead to shedding. Dihydrotestosterone and changes that occur in it during puberty encourage shedding and baldness later on.
DHT binds to hormone receptors in scalp follicles, causing them to shrink. Over time, they produce thinner and shorter hairs with each growth cycle until the follicles eventually stop producing hair. Women with excessive male hormone levels due to conditions like PCOS are more susceptible to FPHL due to increased DHT exposure.
Blocking DHT levels with medications can help counteract its effects on sensitive hair follicles for women with FPHL. And incorporating stress-reduction practices can also promote hormonal balance to support healthy hair cycling.
- DHT sticks to hair follicles triggering gradual miniaturization over time.
- High testosterone turns excess body fat stores into extra DHT production.
- Saw palmetto extract and pumpkin seed oil may block DHT naturally.
Genetics and Hair Loss
Genetics play a major role in FPHL as the susceptibility of follicles to shrink under DHT exposure is inherited. If your mother or other close female relatives have experienced thinning hair or FPHL, you likely carry this genetic predisposition. The gene variants driving sensitivity to DHT are passed down on the X chromosome from either maternal or paternal DNA.
Gene variants linked to FPHL have been identified by researchers, although they might not fully explain susceptibility on their own. Other genes influencing hair structure and cycling likely contribute to FPHL also when combined with DHT-sensitive receptors surrounding hair follicles on the scalp. Your genetic vulnerability interacts with shifting hormone levels to initiate miniaturization.
Genetic testing for risk alleles associated with FPHL is now available to identify one's predisposition, although inheriting the markers does not guarantee balding will occur. Lifestyle and environmental factors also impact gene expression. But testing can quantify risk so preventative steps can be prioritized by those genetically prone to hair thinning.
- Specific SNP gene variants on chromosomes have been linked to FPHL risk.
- Male relatives can pass sensitivity to hair follicles to female family members.
- Genetic testing for hair loss markers can predict - but not cause - balding.
Identifying Patterns of Hair Loss
Identifying hair loss patterns in women can be challenging because of the diffuse nature of shedding with FPHL. Noticeable thinning typically becomes visible first along the top of the head and crown. The center hair part often widens slowly over time, most evident when hair is pulled back. Increased shedding while washing or combing hair is another sign.
FPHL progresses gradually, so tracking symptoms early on is key to preventing extensive thinning. Monitoring the diameter of strands by taking several small sections of hair throughout the scalp can reveal thinning hair strands well before it becomes visible to the naked eye. Consistently checking for miniaturized hairs and those that appear shorter than normal will also help gauge FPHL progression.
Sudden diffuse shedding across the scalp may indicate telogen effluvium instead, a temporary hair loss triggered by physiological stress, nutritional deficits or illness. Unlike FPHL, telogen effluvium causes noticeable thinning within weeks to months instead of gradually over years. Determining the cause of hair loss patterns guides appropriate treatment.
- Take routine scalp photos every few months to compare hair density.
- Telogen hairs come out easier with gentle tugs than actively growing anagen hairs.
- Increased shedding after pregnancy is normal due to changing estrogen levels.
Medical Conditions and Hair Loss in Women
While female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the cause of hair loss, in women there are health issues that can also lead to increased hair shedding. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, lupus, iron deficiency anemia and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are known to play a role in causing hair thinning in women because of changes they bring about.
The hormonal changes of pregnancy and childbirth can also spur hair loss for new mothers, although it tends to be temporary. Stress increases cortisol production which interferes with hair growth cycles leading to female hair loss. When hair shedding is tied to an underlying condition or event, addressing that issue is key alongside topical treatments.
Checking hormone levels, nutrition status, and overall wellness provides insight when evaluating hair loss. A dermatologist can help diagnose contributing factors, provide targeted solutions to normalize physiological functioning, and support healthy hair growth cycles. Being attentive and responsive when increased shedding occurs leads to better treatment outcomes.
- Post-pregnancy hair loss peaks around 3-6 months after delivery as hormones rebalance.
- High cortisol from chronic stress interrupts hair follicle regeneration, disrupting growth cycles.
- Diagnosing underlying contributors is key when determining causes of female hair loss.
Lifestyle Factors and Hair Health
Healthy lifestyle choices and the environment have an influence on the health of your hair. Improving your diet, staying active and managing stress can boost your well being. Help maintain a hormonal balance, crucial for healthy hair growth.
Regular exercise, meditation, yoga, or massage therapy can lower cortisol and adrenaline levels that interfere with follicle regeneration. Getting sufficient sleep every night also allows tissue repair to occur. Avoiding smoking and maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients further protects against female hair loss.
While individual lifestyle factors may seem minor, they collectively influence whole-body homeostasis. Evaluating overall self-care and being proactive about making health-supportive adjustments can protect hair health holistically.
- Essential fatty acids from salmon, avocados, and nuts reduce inflammation, positively influencing hair growth.
- Skipping styling practices that traumatize strands avoids unnecessary damage triggering shedding.
- Alleviating stress through mindfulness, breathwork, or counseling supports hormonal balance.
Diet and Nutrition's Impact on Hair Growth
A nutritious, well-balanced diet provides essential building blocks for continuously regenerating strong hair strands and supports healthy hair growth cycles. Vitamins D, iron, zinc, and B vitamins like biotin, niacin, and B12 are particularly crucial for prolific hair production.
Deficiencies in key hair nutrients can slow growth and may alter hair texture and quality. However, deficiencies are preventable by consuming ample proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds every day. If struggling to meet nutritional needs through whole foods alone, targeted dietary supplements can fill common gaps, promoting healthy locks.
Meeting nutrient needs prevents dietary deficiency-related female hair loss while also providing support for optimal protein synthesis during the active anagen growth phase, resulting in lustrous, fast-growing hair. Identifying any nutritional shortcomings allows for proactive corrective tweaks to nourish hair from within.
- Biotin, the quintessential "hair vitamin," recycles inactive vitamin B5 into a usable form.
- Non-heme iron from plant foods should be combined with citrus, peppers, or tomatoes to enhance absorption.
- Vitamin D from sunlight exposure, eggs, and fish helps regulate cell turnover for scalp tissue repair.
Effective Treatments for Female Pattern Hair Loss
There are several ways to deal with hair loss. A possible way is to use minoxidil. This is a preparation sold in pharmacies, without a prescription. The action of the preparation is to encourage growth and reduce shedding. Among other things, this is done by improving blood flow to the follicles. It should be noted that the effect can take time, so you need patience.
Another type of treatment is the use of a laser, LLLT. A wearable device, similar to combs or a helmet, flows early energy. The goal is to encourage the activity of the hair follicles. There is the option of treatment at home or, alternatively, at a clinic that treats this method.
In cases where these methods are less effective, a hair transplant similar to a transplant in men can be suitable.
Other therapies you may want to consider:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: This involves the injection of concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp to promote hair growth.
- Another way to go is oral medications: One example is Spironolactone, which blocks certain hormones that cause hair loss.
- You do not have to make your hair grow: Rather, you can use scalp micropigmentation. This involves tattooing pigment directly onto the scalp to make your hair appear fuller.
A full head of hair is essential to a woman's self-confidence and femininity. That is why you cannot ignore hair loss, as it may trigger anxiety and feelings of worry and self-esteem problems. Never hesitate to reach for help and support from family and friends, and make sure to consult mental health professionals.
You are not alone. Recognizing that others are also facing this problem can also be helpful and comforting. Online communities, local support gatherings and social media platforms offer spaces to share stories, swap advice and receive encouragement. Remember that there are people to help you navigate the emotional impact of losing hair.
Prioritizing self care and positive affirmations can also enhance self esteem and inner strength. Engaging in activities that bring joy like working out, practicing mindfulness or pursuing hobbies can uplift your spirits. Trying out hairstyles, accessories or beauty products that make you feel good about yourself is empowering. Above all else, be gentle and understanding, with yourself as you navigate this journey.
Research has indicated that women experiencing hair loss have a likelihood of facing depression and anxiety compared to those not experiencing hair loss.
Joining a support group offers a space to share experiences, gain coping strategies and receive encouragement from those who truly understand. Behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist in reshaping negative thoughts and acquiring coping mechanisms to deal with the emotional impact of hair loss.
Conclusion
Hereditary hair loss in women follows a gradual course, but strategic interventions at various points can promote hair health during shifting life seasons. Making lifestyle adjustments to cultivate whole-body wellness, consistently using treatments to enhance hair density, and optimizing nutrition can empower women to age gracefully. While hair thinning can be disheartening if left unchecked, simple proactive steps can cultivate self-care and resilience.
For more information:
Michael Pereira
Michael Pereira, 31, boasts a rich understanding of hair transplant procedures and the science behind them. His expertise is drawn from hands-on experience and a genuine passion for understanding the art and science of hair restoration. In his free time, Michael keeps himself updated with the latest in medical innovations.
