What Is Hair Loss?
Hair loss is a common problem that affects many women over 50. As we age, our hair naturally thins and loses volume, but there are also several other factors that can contribute to hair loss later in life. In this article, we will explore what causes hair loss in women over 50 and provide some tips on how to prevent it.
Women generally shed between 50 to 100 hairs daily. This is natural hair shedding that balances the cycle of some hairs falling out while others grow in. However, hair loss is different and occurs when hair falls out, but less grows in. Over time, your hair follicle shrinks, causing hairs to become shorter and finer. Eventually, the follicle will not grow new hair.
For women over 50, hair mainly thins on the top and crown of the scalp. It will generally widen through the center hair part. The frontal hairline isn’t affected, although some normal recession can happen over time. Unlike men, hair loss in women rarely reaches total baldness. Androgenetic alopecia is female pattern baldness, which according to WebMD, affects about 30 million American women. While thinning is more subtle in women, it can lead to a loss of confidence and depression because it is less socially acceptable than for men.
Symptoms
One-third of women are likely to experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Women over 50 may suffer from gradual hair thinning, bald spots, or a receding hairline. Other signs you may notice are a widening part or thinner ponytail. While hair thinning tends to appear gradually, sometimes it can occur suddenly and unexpectedly. A bald patch may appear or your hair may fall out in clumps when you brush it. If this happens, check with your doctor or dermatologist. Symptoms could include:
- Itching or burning where you have lost hair
- Patches of psoriasis on your scalp
- Sores that cause redness and swelling
What Causes Hair Loss In Women Over 50?
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal imbalances and menopause are leading causes of hair loss in women over 50. As we age, our bodies produce less estrogen and progesterone, which can cause hair to become thinner and fall out more easily. Your doctor may also test you for thyroid problems. Too much or too little thyroid hormone could affect your hair growth.
- Genetics: Hereditary genes play a role in hair loss. Women with a family history of it are more likely to experience it themselves, usually later in life.
- Nutritional deficiencies: If your diet lacks iron or vitamin D, it can contribute to hair loss. Doing a fad diet where you lose a dramatic amount of weight in a short time might also cause hairs to drop in the near term.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs can cause hair loss as a side effect. If you are receiving cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation, you may lose most, if not all your hair within a few weeks of beginning treatment.
- Stress: Stress can cause you to lose your hair by disrupting the natural hair growth cycle. If you are recovering from surgery or an illness, you may notice more hairs falling out. An emotionally distressing event such as divorce or death of a loved one may also affect hair loss.
- Hairstyles and treatments: Any chemical processes done to your hair, including coloring, perming, or straightening could lead to hair loss. Tight hairstyles and heat styling tools can damage hair and cause you to lose hair over time. Frequent use of styling products such as hairspray and gel can be damaging and a contributing factor.
- Ringworm: Ringworm can cause itchy, round patches of hair loss and can be treated with medication.
Ways To Prevent Hair Loss
1. Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, iron, and vitamin D can help keep hair healthy and prevent hair loss.
2. Take supplements: Supplements can also be helpful in preventing hair loss. Biotin, iron, and vitamin D supplements are all good options.
3. Avoid harsh styling products: Harsh styling products such as hairspray and gel can damage hair and contribute to hair loss. Opt for natural products instead.
4. Avoid tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles, such as braids and ponytails, can pull on the hair and cause it to break and fall out. Stick to looser styles.
5. Manage stress: Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or exercise can help prevent hair loss.
6. Use gentle hair care products: Using gentle hair care products, such as sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, can help keep hair healthy and prevent breakage. Opt for natural hair care products. Try using a silk pillowcase which may reduce pulling and breaking of your hair while sleeping.
7. See a doctor: If you are experiencing hair loss, it is important to seek treatment from a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Treatment
Medication
Some women have had success using the topical prescription medication, Minoxidil (Rogaine), which is approved by the FDA. It is applied to the scalp and results vary among patients in terms of new growth, but it can slow or stop hair loss.
Wigs or Hair Extensions
Wearing a wig is a quick and simple way to create the look of a full head of hair. Hair extensions can help women with androgenic alopecia by creating the appearance of hair naturally growing from your scalp. There are different types of hair extensions and varying methods of attaching them, so do your research and ask your hairdresser for advice.
Hair Transplant
Follicles are harvested during surgery and grafts are transplanted to the bald area of the head. If you are interested in this treatment, consult your doctor to find out if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
Hair loss is a common problem that affects many women over 50. While hormonal changes and genetics are often the primary causes, there are several other factors that can contribute to it as well. By eating a balanced diet, taking supplements, avoiding harsh styling products, and managing stress, women can take steps to prevent losing hair and keep it healthy. If you are experiencing hair loss, consult a healthcare professional to determine any underlying medical causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
