Female Hair Loss: Common Causes and Basic Remedies

It is widely known that pregnancy causes hormonal changes that ultimately lead to excessive hair loss. During pregnancy, a large reserve of protein and calcium is taken up by the baby, causing a lack of essential nutrients, which are beneficial for hair growth. This major transfer of nutrients leaves a woman severely deficient in hair food.

Consequently, women are advised to obtain a healthy diet during pregnancy and to consult with their physician to ensure a proper balance of hormones.

Menopause is another reason that can cause hair loss because of the lack of oestrogen. A thinning of scalp hair along with a growth of excessive facial hair occurs in about half of all women by age 50, although it may begin anytime after puberty.

We can always blame postmenopausal hair loss on the lack of oestrogen, but research has shown that more than one hormone is involved in this process. The loss of both progesterone and oestrogen throughout menopause seems to lead to a new hormonal pattern that leads to hair fall and an increase in facial hair.

If you are concerned about hair loss or the growth of unwanted facial hair during menopause, visit your doctor for a check-up and for a diet review.

A doctor’s treatment plan will be based on both your medical and lifestyle information. A doctor might prescribe a short-term dose of oestrogen to see if that addresses the problem. Drinking plenty of green tea, getting enough vitamin B6, losing weight and getting enough sleep are highly recommended because your problem might get fixed if you just switch to a healthier lifestyle.

Women suffering from hair loss should avoid ponytails, hair weaves, braids and tight hair rollers, which can pull and stress your hair. If you need to use blow-dryers and other heated hair instruments, try to use the cooler, lower heat. Use shampoos and conditioners that contain biotin and silica.

Head massages can help with blood circulation in the scalp and promotes hair growth. Give yourself a head massage every day by putting your fingers gently, but firmly, on the scalp and start moving the scalp in small circles for a few seconds in each spot until you’re done with your whole head. This can be done for five minutes twice a day.