Hair loss in females is much more common than one might think. Female pattern hair loss is often referred to as female pattern alopecia. The hair loss may often be only partial much like that seen in male pattern baldness. Female pattern hair loss is most often seen after women reach menopause and may affect up to one third of women prone to this disorder. The thinning tends to be gradual in onset.
Genetically the hair loss can come from either side of the family. The pattern of female hair loss is usually a gradual thinning of the hair by hairs falling out and being replaced by progressively shorter hairs, leading to a large degree of thinning or complete baldness in the affected area. The most common area of the head affected by female baldness is both the front and top of the head, with the potential effect being quite dramatic and devastating to many. Hair loss can occur after pregnancy or after stopping taking birth control medication. Although it may occur as early as puberty, it more commonly occurs after menopause. In some cases, female pattern hair loss is associated with severe psychological stress or physical illness.
Hair loss related to these causes may only be temporary, and the hair may sometimes return without anything needing to be done. This, however, does not happen overnight. Treatment typically involves the use of Rogaine (minoxidil) which is the only FDA medication currently approved for female hair loss. It is a topical application to the skin done on a regular basis. Propecia is reported to be ineffective in women.
Another medication, Aldactone, may help many women but takes to time to begin working and is most effective for those that have hair loss beginning before menopause. Some hormone replacement pills have been seen to be effective following menopause. Hair transplant is also an option in some women. The treatment's effectiveness is not certain. Other approaches like perms, dying, etc.
can make the effect of hair loss less noticeable. These days there are great quality in wigs and hair additions. A woman's appearance can be greatly improved through any of these methods.
If you are suffering from hair loss it is best to check out all of the options available to you before you commit yourself to one treatment.
You can find additional hair loss tips at: Hair Loss News. There are many options for female hair loss treatment at http://Hair-Loss.Teach2.Us
