Many believe that hair loss only affects men, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, 40% of women have visible hair loss by the time they are 40 according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Unfortunately, many women experience hair loss after giving birth. In this article, we will discuss the cause of post-partum hair loss and what treatments are available. What Causes Post-Partum Hair LosSadly, women experiencing hair loss after pregnancy is quite common and this temporary thinning affects millions of women worldwide. During pregnancy, women experience an increase in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones can prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair follicle which can make the hair appear fuller and thicker. After giving birth women experience a natural decline in their estrogen and progesterone levels. This can then cause hair follicles to enter the telogen (resting) phase all at once, which can lead to an appearance of thinning Are There Any Treatments For Post-Partum Hair LossPost-partum hair loss is a temporary condition that generally resolves on its own - once the hormonal balance is restored. However, there are some tips that can provide women with the appearance of fuller and thicker hair. Currently, Toppik and DermMatch are the two most popular hair loss concealers on the market today. Toppik is a keratin-based fiber that attaches and binds to hair follicles to provide an appearance of fuller hair. DermMatch is a hard packed powder formula that matches the color of the scalp with the individual's hair. This camouflages any thin spots because the scalp is no longer visible through the individual's hair. Both of these treatments are safe and non-toxic and can provide women with a solution for their temporary hair thinning. Can A Hair Transplant Treat Post-Partum Hair Loss?As previously mentioned, post-partum hair loss is a temporary condition brought on by hormonal changes in the body. Hair restoration is primarily used to treat androgenic alopecia (genetic hair loss). Hair transplantation works by removing hair from the back and sides of the individual's scalp referred to as the (donor) zone. The hairs located in the donor zone are genetically resistant to the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the main catalyst for genetic hair loss.
However, post-partum hair loss is not caused by a genetic vulnerability to DHT, it is brought on by a hormonal imbalance. Therefore, post-partum hair loss is not permanent and does not require hair transplant surgery. However, hair transplantation can be considered for individuals suffering from androgenic alopecia. Unfortunately, some women may have a genetic predisposition to hereditary hair loss which can be triggered by post-partum thinning. It is important to consult with a qualified pre-screened hair transplant surgeon to appropriately diagnose the cause of hair loss.
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A healthy, lustrous head of hair showcases a woman's beauty and is undoubtedly a sign of a woman’s self confidence. Hair loss is a living nightmare for every woman as is a thin ponytail or a visible scalp. There are many causes of hair loss in women. It may be temporary or permanent and irreversible damage can occur depending on the reason. Below, we have listed the most common causes of hair loss and how to take appropriate action. Hormonal imbalance Increase or decrease in certain hormones disturbs the normal cellular homeostasis leading to noticeable hair loss or baldness. For example, high or low thyroid level disrupts protein metabolism which negatively impacts the growth of hair follicles. After childbirth, the estrogen imbalances put the hair growth cycle in the resting phase, and the outcome is excess hair shedding. Genetic predisposition to conditions like Polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS increases the androgen level that causes visible hair thinning in front of the scalp. Poor Diet And Female Hair LossPoor diet and other unhealthy eating habits can deplete iron levels and other necessary nutrients that promote healthy hair growth. Other examples include zinc, selenium, hair protein like keratin and other minerals. Zinc and iron deficiency promotes dandruff and fungal infections like psoriasis in scalp resulting in excessive hair fall. Such nutritional deficiency is one of the prime female hair loss causes. The new hair cells fail to grow and leave you with baldness. Stress Related Hair Loss in WomenWorking in a high demanding workplace and poor work-life balance is a major contributor to physical stress. Significant personal life changes due to prolonged illness like cancer or trauma due to past failures add to both physical and emotional stress. Stress due to medical conditions such as autoimmune disease or skin infections and treatments like chemotherapy were found to result in irreversible hair damage in women. Various internal and external stress elevate the level of cortisol (a stress hormone) and decrease the level of hair growth factors. So, stress induces follicular sensitivity and is one possible cause of hair thinning in women. Hairstyling and Thinning HairHair straightening on a regular basis dramatically damages the hair follicles and denatures the cysteine protein due to excessive heat. Chemical treatment for permanent hair straightening may lead to irreparable hair and is one of the popular causes of hair loss in women. Use of dye, bleaching and heat treatment are too dangerous for dry hair as it permanently damages the cuticle, causes split ends and brittle hair. ConclusionIf you are suffering from severe hair loss or thinning, then it’s important to find out what’s causing it. Examples include medication, illness, genetics or hormonal imbalances.
Thankfully, hair loss or scalp related infections can be treated by eliminating the cause of the problem. Genetic hair loss is progressive and may require medication such as Rogaine (minoxidil). A proper diet, exercise or even practicing yoga or meditation may naturally treat stress related hair loss. However, it is always wise to consult with a qualified hair restoration physician to find a suitable treatment and prevent permanent female hair loss. |
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