Female Hair Loss? We Can Help!
Are you a female noticing thinning in your hair or hair loss at a young age? If so, you may be experiencing female hair loss. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help diagnose and treat female hair loss. Knowing the signs to look for can help you have less hair loss and begin treatment sooner.
How to Identify and Treat Female Hair Loss
Causes of Female Hair Loss
Hair loss often referred to as alopecia, can affect your scalp or the entire body. There are mild cases that are temporary and other cases that are permanent. As we age, hair loss is a normal part of aging, but noticing hair loss before that may be a sign that you need to reach out to a dermatologist to see if there is an underlying cause. A dermatologist may determine that the hair loss is hereditary, hormonal, or because of a medical condition. Family history of hair loss is the most common cause of female hair loss. Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause are the most common hormonal causes. Lastly, certain medications for medical conditions such as cancer, gout, or high blood pressure may result in hair loss. A dermatologist will review these potential causes in addition to symptoms you have to help provide the best treatment option.
Symptoms of Female Hair Loss
When you notice hair loss, you may notice gradual thinning, bald spots, sudden looseness of hair, or full body hair loss. Gradual thinning will be noticeable on your scalp in the form of a widened part. Bald spots will also be noticeable on your scalp or head where just one area is missing hair. If your hair has become loose, you may notice excess hair falling out in the shower or when you brush your hair. Lastly, you may notice that it is not just your head missing hair but the rest of your body. Your eyelashes, eyebrows, and arm hair may be gone in addition to hair loss on your head. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dermatologist.
Treatment for Female Hair Loss
A dermatologist will help you determine the cause of your hair loss and your symptoms to provide different treatment options. The most common treatment for hereditary hair loss in females is Rogaine. Rogaine is a non-prescription medicated shampoo that helps to regrow hair and works best for those with temporary hair loss. It should be used once per day in the shower. When used consistently, results will be seen in six months. If you stop using it, you will continue losing hair again.
An option for those with permanent hair loss is a hair transplant. Hair is removed from part of the head and transplanted onto the bald spots. It is a painful treatment, but medication is given to ease the pain. Multiple treatments may be needed to get the results you are looking for.
We know hair loss, especially in females, can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but you are not alone. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are here to help. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois, or the surrounding areas, complete this form. We will be in touch to help diagnose and treat your female hair loss.