Why Are So Many Women Losing Their Hair and What Can Be Done About It?

Although many researchers agree that female hair loss is a developing phenomenon, no one seems clear as to exactly why this is happening. It could be stress, genetic factors, thyroid issues, pollution, etc.

There are two main types of hair loss. The first is over all thinning, or shedding, which in most cases is usually temporary and easily treatable. Low levels of iron, thyroid medications, and hormones can lead to general hair loss. In these cases, a blood test can reveal this and treatment can be as simple as taking a supplement.

The second, more difficult to diagnose and treat type of hair loss, is thought to be a result of a sensitivity to testosterone.This can be triggered by anything that effects hormones, including going on or off birth control pills and HRT. The important thing to note, is that you should seek treatment as soon as you notice a change in the hair.

The good news is that there are now an increasing number of treatments proving to be effective, that can stop hair thinning, and in some cases even restore hair loss.

The first uses PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma, which uses your own blood and then isolating the internal growth factors or IGF using a centrifuge and then reinjecting them. IGF’s are regenerating proteins that go where the body needs them. Treatment is usually once a month for 3-6 months. While this does not treat hair loss, it minimizes thinning.

The second, and newest treatment is called Stem Cell Treatment. Although there are only four centers using it in america, the results appear to be promising.Stem cells are harvested from the abdomen and then used in the scalp using a cannula. According to experts, this can not only halt hair loss but can result in more volume and increased hair growth.

The third type of treatment is what is known as LLLT or Low Level Light Therapy. This uses a type of red light therapy, and is thought to kick start inactive hair follicles into their active growth stage. Many dermatologists who specialize in hair loss have this available in their offices and several companies who make these machines now have at home use devices. These are manufactured under the name LaserCap Capillus and Thermadome laser helmets. These are worn like a cap for 20 minutes twice weekly, and then weekly for maintenance, according to the companies website. Once stopped, however, the hair is thought to return to its normal pattern of shedding.

The last and most commonly known treatment for hair loss is minoxidil, also known as Rogaine in America. Originally developed to treat male hair loss, it is now known to be safe and effective in women. Applied once a day to the scalp, many studies show a high success rate and the new hair is thought to be up to 50 percent thicker.

All of these treatments represent big advances in effective treatment from only a few years ago, and other up and coming treatments still in the testing phase, such as hair cloning offer even more hope for those requiring treatment.