Causes and Prevention of Hair Loss in Women

The daily torment of losing hair, coupled with the constant worry about what others think, can lead to hair loss, which is difficult to manage. The daily thinning of hair and the constant worry about what others think can lead to a decline in confidence and even self-esteem. According to statistics, female hair loss is a growing problem, reaching 43.8%, suggesting that hair loss is no longer just a problem for middle-aged men.

Over 90% of female hair loss is genetic.

Hair loss is caused by the interaction between the male hormone testosterone and the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase in hair follicles. This enzyme converts the male hormone that reaches the scalp into a different form, and this converted male hormone causes hair to fall out from the hair follicle. However, if there is a genetic predisposition to hair loss, the activity of this enzyme increases significantly, resulting in a much greater amount of converted male hormone. Since women secrete only about one-tenth the amount of male hormones compared to men, it is said that cases of complete hair loss are very rare.

Stress and Diet

Stress and rapid dieting are the most common causes of hair loss in young women. Diets that restrict food intake for short-term weight loss, in particular, can lead to nutritional imbalances, which can even affect hair growth, leading to hair loss from even mild stimuli, thinning, and easy hair loss. Hair loss due to dieting is characterized by an even distribution across the scalp.

UV rays, perms, and dyeing

Just as with skin, strong UV rays can damage the scalp, exacerbating dandruff and hair loss. Perms, which destroy the structure of pores and then set them in place with chemicals, and hair dyes, which destroy hair proteins and negatively impact hair follicles, can also weaken the scalp and ultimately lead to hair loss.

Pregnancy, childbirth, and hormonal changes

During pregnancy, estrogen, a type of female hormone, increases, which not only increases hair growth but also delays the hair growth phase, reducing hair loss. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels return to normal, and the hair cycles of catagen and resting phases begin simultaneously, resulting in significant hair loss. New hair begins to grow after six months postpartum, and special care is needed to maintain healthy hair.

Additionally, during menopause, when female hormones decline rapidly, the influence of adrenal androgen hormones secreted by the adrenal glands increases, which can lead to hair loss. Hair loss symptoms can be particularly noticeable in women with genetic predisposition.

In addition to this, hair loss can occur due to various diseases (hyperthyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc.).

conclusion

Hair loss requires consistent management and treatment. Minimizing scalp irritation by reducing perms, dyeing, and using hair dryers is helpful, as is consuming a healthy diet rich in plant-based proteins. Avoiding smoking, drinking, and being mindful of UV rays can also help create a healthy scalp environment. Changing lifestyle habits and consistently using scalp care products to maintain a healthy scalp can also help prevent hair loss.