Shedding hair and hair loss are two of the worst terms to think about if you are on a hair growth journey. However if you are not considering how much hair you are loosing, the picture of your hair growth may be incomplete.
Most people think hair loss and hair shedding are the same thing, but they actually refer to different things. Shedding hair is normal and happens to everyone, while hair loss can be a serious condition that be a result of your health and ultimately impact your self-esteem.
As a curly girl, hair shedding and hair loss are a reminder every wash day. Unlike straight hair, shed hair that naturally falls daily stays in the hair until it is detangled. For me, that's on wash day. Therefore I see a weeks worth of shed hair. I was use to it, until I had my baby and experienced postpartum shedding, which I'll explain more about later.
During this time I was also wearing my hair in braided styles for a couple months at a time so I could focus on my baby and not my hair. There were points I was "loosing" so much hair I was amazed I still had a full head of hair on my head. Then I began asking the question, was I experiencing regular hair shedding or hair loss? I knew the answer wouldn't just help me, but would also help shine light on question you may have about your hair and the strands you loose.
In this article, we will explore the difference between shedding hair, hair loss and hair breakage in women, their causes, and available treatments.
Shedding Hair
Shedding hair is a natural process that happens to everyone, men and women. On average, people lose about 50 to 100 strands of hair per day, which is considered normal. However, there are factors that can cause an increase in hair shedding, like stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications.
Hormonal changes
One of the most common causes of increased hair shedding in women is hormonal changes. Hormones play a major role in hair growth and loss, and changes in hormone levels can cause hair to fall out. For example, during pregnancy, women experience an increase in estrogen levels, which can prolong the growth phase of hair and reduce shedding. However, after pregnancy, estrogen levels decrease, leading to an increase in hair shedding. This is often called postpartum shedding, which is what I experienced after having my baby.
Stress
Stress is another factor that can cause hair shedding in women. When the body is under stress, it produces a hormone called cortisol, which can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle. This can lead to increased shedding and even hair loss in some cases. This can be emotional stress like anxiety or depression or physical stress like a surgery or illness.
During the time I was questioning my hair loss, I was recovering from a c-section from having my baby and also was going through a career change. I wasn't sure if my increased shedding was hormonal, emotional stress or physical stress. It honestly could have been a combination.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause hair shedding in women. For example, chemotherapy drugs are known to cause hair loss, but other medications, such as blood thinners and antidepressants, can also lead to increased hair shedding.
Hair Loss in Women
Hair loss is a more serious condition that can affect a person's self-esteem and overall health. Hair loss in women can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and medical conditions.
Genetics
One of the most common causes of hair loss in women is genetics. Female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a hereditary condition that affects approximately 30 million women in the United States. This condition is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, and it typically starts with a widening part and thinning hair at the crown of the head.
It was recently brought to the forefront with the controversy surrounding Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith and Chris Rock. I won't get into that here, but the incident sparked a wider conversation about alopecia and it's effects on the women who have it and their families.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss in women. For example, hormonal imbalances caused by thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or menopause can lead to hair loss. During menopause, a decrease in estrogen levels can cause hair to thin, while an increase in testosterone can lead to hair loss.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions can also cause hair loss in women. For example, autoimmune diseases, such as alopecia areata, can cause hair loss, as can scalp infections, such as ringworm. Certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, can also cause hair loss.
Hair breakage in women
Hair loss and shedding is completely different from hair breakage, which occurs when the hair strand breaks off at any point along the hair shaft. This can lead to split ends and shorter hair. Hair breakage is often caused by physical stress on the hair, such as heat styling, chemical treatments, or harsh brushing. Hair breakage can also be caused by nutritional imbalances or environmental stressors. Hair breakage is typically more noticeable near the ends of the hair, and the hair may appear frizzy or damaged.
It's important to note that some hair loss can be caused by a combination of hair breakage and shedding. For example, hair that has been damaged by heat styling or chemical treatments may be more prone to breakage, which can exacerbate shedding.
Treatments for Shedding Hair and Hair Loss in Women
The treatments for shedding hair and hair loss in women depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, no treatment is necessary, as shedding hair is a normal process that will resolve on its own. However, if the shedding is caused by a medical condition or medication, treating the underlying cause may help reduce hair loss.
It's important to note that hair loss can have many different causes. This article is in no way telling you how to treat your hair loss, but to educate you on the different option and make the process less scary. If you're experiencing hair loss, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.
Medications to treat hair loss caused by genetics
For women with hair loss caused by genetics, there are several treatments available.
One of the most effective treatments is minoxidil, which is a topical medication that is applied to the scalp. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and stimulating hair growth.
Minoxidil 5% Hair Growth Serum Oil: The hair growth serum combines 5% Minoxidil, biotin and other nutrient ingredients to help reduce hair loss and promote hair growth.
Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam: Specially formulated for women, Rogaine claims this hair growth treatment is clinically proven to regrow hair. They say is works to boost hair follicle activity and hair protein production. The Rogaine foam is also Sulfate free.
Another treatment option is finasteride, which is an oral medication. It works by blocking the production of the hormone DHT, which is responsible for hair loss. However, finasteride is not recommended for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.
Regulate your hormones
For women with hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances, treating the underlying condition may help reduce hair loss. For example, women with Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, may benefit from medications that regulate hormone levels, like birth control pills. Women with thyroid disorders may benefit from thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Treat medical conditions
For women with hair loss caused by medical conditions, treating the underlying condition may help reduce hair loss. For example, women with scalp infections may benefit from anti-fungal medications. Women with autoimmune diseases may benefit from immunosuppressive medications.
Hair restoration surgery
In some cases, hair loss may be too advanced for medications or other treatments to be effective. In these cases, hair restoration surgery may be an option. Hair restoration surgery involves transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another. This procedure can be effective in restoring hair growth, but it is expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
MSM for hair growth
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is sometimes used as a hair growth supplement. It is a sulfur-containing compound that is found naturally in some foods and is also available in supplement form. MSM is believed to promote the production of keratin, the protein that makes up hair and nails.
While there is limited scientific research on the use of MSM for hair growth, some studies have suggested that it may be beneficial. For example, a small study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that a supplement containing MSM, biotin, and other nutrients improved hair thickness and growth in women with thinning hair.
It's also important to note that MSM supplements can cause side effects in some people, like digestive upset and headaches. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional first to discuss potential benefits and risks, as well as to determine the appropriate dosage.
Essential oils
Essential oils, such as peppermint, rosemary, and lavender, have been shown to promote hair growth by improving circulation and stimulating hair follicles. These oils can be mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and massaged into the scalp.
Scalp massage
Massaging the scalp can help improve circulation and promote hair growth. I use massage in combination with an oil or deep conditioning treatment. Just use your fingertips to massage your scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day. Try not to scratch your scalp.
Laser therapy
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been shown to promote hair growth by stimulating cellular metabolism and improving circulation. LLLT devices are available for home use and can be used several times per week.
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Eating Right
Lifestyle changes that can help reduce shedding hair and promote hair growth. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and biotin, can help promote healthy hair growth.
Conclusion
As you can see, you could be loosing strands for meany reasons. It could be do to shedding hair, hair loss, or breakage. Shedding hair is a natural process that happens to everyone, while hair loss is a more serious condition that can be caused by genetics, hormonal changes, or medical conditions. You could also be going through hair breakage by too much heat styling, chemical treatments, or harsh brushing.
Treating the underlying cause of shedding hair or hair loss can help reduce or reverse the condition. There are several treatment options available, including medications, hair restoration surgery, and treating underlying medical conditions. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for each individual case.
If you are experiencing hair loss of any kind, don't let anyone tell you it's just hair that grows back. Hair is just as much a part of who you are as your skin or nails. It's important to know you are not alone and you have an experience that could help someone, share a comment below.
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