Women’s Corner: Understanding Hair Loss and Treatment Options

Hair Loss in Women: Understanding the Ludwig Classification

Type I: Early Thinning

In the early stages of hair loss, known as Type I, thinning can often be easily camouflaged with proper grooming techniques. At this stage, hair loss is typically too minimal to consider surgical hair restoration.

Type II: Moderate Thinning

Type II hair loss involves significant widening of the midline part and a noticeable decrease in hair volume. Hair transplantation may be a viable option if the donor area at the back and sides of the scalp remains stable.

Type III: Advanced Thinning

Type III hair loss presents a thin, see-through appearance on the top of the scalp, often accompanied by generalized thinning.

Identifying and Treating Hair Loss in Women

Hair loss can be either temporary or long-lasting. Temporary hair loss, often easier to address, occurs when the underlying cause is identified and managed. However, misdiagnosis can turn temporary hair loss into a persistent issue. Understanding the root cause is crucial for effective treatment.

Alopecia: The Medical Term for Hair Loss

Alopecia refers to excessive or abnormal hair loss, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. Hormonal imbalances, diseases, or genetic predispositions can all contribute to hair loss. Additionally, short-term factors like stress, pregnancy, or certain medications can trigger hair loss, which typically resolves once the trigger is removed.

Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia in women often results in diffuse thinning across the entire scalp, unlike the more distinct patterns seen in men. Factors such as ovarian cysts, high androgen index birth control pills, pregnancy, and menopause can contribute to this condition. The hormone DHT plays a significant role in the miniaturization of hair follicles, and heredity is a major factor.

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium occurs when the hair growth cycle is disrupted due to a traumatic event such as childbirth, severe infection, major surgery, or extreme stress. This condition causes hair to shift prematurely into the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss. For most, recovery is possible if stressors are managed effectively.

Anagen Effluvium

Anagen effluvium is typically associated with chemotherapy, which targets rapidly dividing cancer cells but also affects hair follicles. This results in significant hair loss during the anagen (growth) phase. The hallmark of this condition is the tapered fracture of hair shafts.

Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is caused by localized trauma to hair follicles from tight hairstyles. Early detection is crucial as hair can regrow if the styling practices are changed.

Hormonal Contraceptives and Hair Loss

Certain hormonal contraceptives can cause or exacerbate hair loss. These include:

• Progestin Implants: Small rods implanted beneath the skin that release progestin to prevent ovulation.
• Hormone Injections: Progestin injections, such as Depo-Provera, administered into the muscles.
• Skin Patch: Ortho Evra, a patch placed on the body that releases progestin and estrogen.
• Vaginal Ring: NuvaRing, a flexible ring inserted into the vagina releasing progestin and estrogen.

Take Action Today

Don’t let hair loss impact your confidence and well-being. Call now or make an online appointment for a free consultation with a professional consultant at Invision International Hair Care Center. Our experts are here to help you find the right treatment for your specific type of hair loss.