You wake up one morning, walk into your bathroom, and start brushing your sleepyhead locks when suddenly, you see clumps of hair left behind in your brush. Or maybe you’re in the middle of a relaxing, steamy shower only to witness way more strands than usual wash down the drain. And then there’s the terrifying moment when you look in the mirror and realize you have a patch of missing hair that seems to be growing by the day. If any of this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing hair thinning or hair loss.
Try not to panic! Hair loss in women is much more common than you’d think, especially as you start to age. But that being said, there are a few different factors that could be the reason behind your hair loss. We’re going to take a look at the common causes and signs of hair loss, and what you can do to help prevent your hair from falling out.
What are the common causes of hair loss in women?
First thing’s first: What’s the culprit behind losing locks of hair? There are a few different reasons you may be losing your hair:
- Genetics
- Thyroid disease
- Aging
- Hormonal conditions
- Stress
- Pregnancy
What are the signs of hair loss in women?
Now for the symptoms of hair loss in women. If you notice any of the following signs, you might be experiencing hair loss:
- Generally thinning hair, particularly at the top of your scalp.
- More hair falling out daily.
- Receding hairline.
- Thinner ponytail.
- Burning or stinging on your scalp.
If you notice any sores or irritations on your scalp, this could be an indication of an infection. Be sure to reach out to your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How to help prevent hair loss
Hair loss in women can happen very gradually – or not! In fact, you may even be able to see a bald patch or strip within 1 or 2 days. And then there are the unexpected clumps of hair falling out onto your comb. While this may sound like the worst nightmare for most of us, there are a few things you can do to improve your overall hair health and maybe even help prevent hair loss.
Just as we prioritize healthy skin, our hair also requires a lot of tender love and care! Think about it: We spend all this time investing in our skincare, from the right moisturizers for dry versus oily skin to body lotions, even dermatologist-recommended deodorant, face washes, and other treatments – click here to learn more about dermatologist-recommended deodorant.
Whether you’re looking for men’s hair grooming for thin hair or you just want to crank up your haircare routine, check out these tips that can make a big difference when it comes to hair loss:
- Reduce your use of heat-styling tools as much as possible.
- Avoid chemical treatments, like bleaching.
- Find the right shampoo for your hair needs. Stay clear of sulfates and other ingredients that can cause frizz, a dry scalp, and overall fragile hair.
- Avoid hairstyles that pull your hair too tight.
There you have it: The early signs of hair loss in women and a few things you can do to help improve the overall health of your hair – read more about it in our section of hair care tips. Remember, if you think you’re experiencing the early signs of hair loss, reach out to your doctor for professional advice and treatments. Otherwise, try to remain calm and rest assured that so many women experience hair loss to some extent – you’re not alone!