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We look at what experts say regarding female hair loss and what are the common causes and fixes.
Understanding the cycle
There are a few stages to the hair growth cycle to consider
1. active growth phase of hair (anagen) lasts 3-5 years
2. 10-day transitional period (catagen)
3. the telogen phase, in which the hair sheds and follicles fall out
4. incactivity for 3 months before the starting again from no. 1
It can be the case the hair loss can be faster than what is usual, and can be sudden, due to internal reasons such as illness or deficiencies.
Hair loss, thinning and similar issues occur when the normal hair cycle is disrupted.
Normal hair loss is considered to be in the range of 50-100 strands of hair per day.
Hair loss due to hormones, stress, iron and diet-related causes is generally considered reversible. Not so easy with hereditary or rare inflammatory cases.
Hormones
They play a vital part in the condition of our skin and of hair. The right balance of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone is necessary for healthy hair growth.
Pregnancy Hormones
Its common for pregnant woman to receive compliments about their hair, thanks to higher estrogen and progesterone hormones during pregnancy. 40% of women will experience excessive shedding post-birth. Being diligent with the intake of all necessary vitamins and minerals is helpful in dealing with this type of hair loss, and it’s completely reversible.
Menopause Hormones
Decrease in estrogen and progesterone can affect hair growth around this time. Estrogens are growth friendly and help to keep hair in that growing phase.
Anemia
Anemia, or iron deficiency, is one of the most common causes of hair loss in women, apart from hormones.
Heredity
This type can happen at any time, and is more common in connection with menopause and is connected to androgen levels. Medications that block androgens, like spironolactone, are somewhat effective
Insulin Imbalance
Eating high-glycemic foods in excess, often in combination with a sedentary lifestyle, can cause an overload of insulin in the body, eventually signalling the ovaries to create more testosterone. A change in diet and lifestyle can help insulin levels and restore hair growth.
Stress
Stress can be very much negatively affect you mental and physical health and well being, and of course can lead to hair loss.
Stress raises cortisol levels, and then insulin levels rise, in turn triggering a testosterone increase. Stress induces a larger percentage of follicles to enter the telogen phase, resulting in increased shedding of hair. Exercise not only increases blood flow which stimulates hair growth, it also reduces stress and therefore cortisol level again helping the cause.
Final thought
A balanced, healthy diet, and active lifestyle can make the world of difference. What you put in your hair on a daily basis is also incredibly important. In terms of your shampoo and conditioner, it is important to use less harsh chemicals and more hair growth promoting products.
Rosemary Hair Activating Shampoo (To prevent hair loss)
Containing rosemary essence to effectively help improve the microcirculation of the scalp, enhancing the penetrating ability of the hair follicles to supplement sufficient nutrients and improve the activity of hair follicles. Reconstructs hair cells and supplies essential protein to the hair, while deeply nourishing the roots to prevent hair loss whilst repairing damaged hair, leaving hair strong, vibrant and healthy.
Using quality products in combination with eating right, and maintaining a happier, more active life style is the first stepping stone for everyone in the quest for fuller, healthier hair.