Hair loss in women usually has one of a handful of causes: female pattern hair loss, shedding triggered by childbirth, illness, stress or rapid weight loss, thyroid conditions, iron or other deficiencies, some medications, and tight hairstyles. Some need medical treatment first; others respond to an aesthetic option such as PRP. Knowing which is the point of this guide from Sarah Walner, PA-C, written conservatively on purpose.
The common causes
- Female pattern hair loss. Gradual thinning along the part and crown, often familial; the most common cause (review).
- Telogen effluvium (shedding). Triggered a few months after childbirth, illness, surgery, stress or rapid weight loss; usually temporary.
- Thyroid conditions. Both underactive and overactive thyroid can cause diffuse thinning.
- Iron and nutritional deficiencies. Low iron stores and vitamin D are common and testable.
- Hormonal changes. Stopping birth control, polycystic ovary syndrome, menopause.
- Medications. Some blood pressure, mood and other medications list hair loss as a side effect.
- Traction. Tight ponytails, braids and extensions pull on follicles over time.
See a dermatologist or your physician first if
- Hair loss is sudden or comes out in clumps.
- There are patchy bald spots.
- The scalp is itchy, scaly, painful or inflamed.
- Hair loss comes with fatigue, weight change, irregular periods, acne or new facial hair.
- You started a new medication around the time it began.
The American Academy of Dermatology describes how dermatologists diagnose and treat hair loss, including blood tests and scalp examination.
When an aesthetic treatment is reasonable
For gradual pattern thinning with medical causes ruled out or treated, PRP or PRF is a reasonable option, often alongside treatment from your dermatologist. Sarah will tell you if she thinks a medical evaluation should come first. See hair restoration for women in NYC.
Questions about female hair loss
What is the most common cause of hair loss in women?
Female pattern hair loss, a gradual thinning along the part and crown that often runs in families. It is followed by shedding triggered by events such as childbirth, illness, stress or rapid weight loss.
Should I see a dermatologist or an aesthetic specialist?
See a dermatologist or your physician first if hair loss is sudden, patchy, accompanied by scalp symptoms, or comes with other symptoms such as fatigue or irregular periods. For gradual pattern thinning with no medical cause, an aesthetic specialist offering PRP or PRF is a reasonable next step, often alongside dermatology care.
Can stress really cause hair loss?
Yes. A significant stressor can push many hairs into the resting phase, and they shed about three months later. It usually recovers once the stress passes.
Which tests are usually done?
Commonly thyroid function, iron stores (ferritin), vitamin D and sometimes hormone levels, chosen by the clinician based on your history.
Unsure where to start?
At the free virtual consultation Sarah reviews your history and tells you whether to see a dermatologist first or whether PRP or PRF is a reasonable next step.