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Hair loss in women

Hair loss in women often causes a gradually widening parting and less volume on top rather than a bald crown like men. Not all loss is hereditary: diffuse shedding, scarring, severe itching, deficiencies, thyroid or hormonal problems and loss after pregnancy or illness need different approaches.

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  • Hair loss in women is often subtler than in men, usually beginning with thinning on top.
  • The front hairline often remains relatively preserved while the parting widens.
  • Not all female hair loss is hereditary; deficiencies, thyroid problems, hormonal factors, autoimmune disease, skin inflammation and recent recovery involving physical or emotional stress may contribute.
  • Scarring, shiny bald skin, pain, pustules or rapidly expanding patches need faster assessment.
  • A detailed history of menstruation, pregnancy, medicines, weight, diet and family helps distinguish causes.

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H
Hair loss in menHair loss in men is often hereditary and hormone-sensitive, usually causing a gradually receding hairline and thinning crown. Rapid shedding, scarring, scales, pain or whole-body hair loss are less consistent with ordinary male-pattern loss and need assessment.
H
Hair lossHair loss is common and has many possible causes. Inherited hair loss is the most common, but stress, illness, childbirth, deficiencies, thyroid problems, autoimmune disease, pulling on the hair and scalp inflammation may also contribute. Not every form is harmless: rapid or scarring hair loss, bald patches with redness or scaling, and hair loss with other physical symptoms need timely assessment. Do not expect miracles from supplements or oils.
B
Bald patchesBald patches are a pattern, not a diagnosis. Causes include alopecia areata, scalp fungal infection, hair pulling, scarring or other skin disease. Distinguishing them matters: fungal infection may spread to others and scarring may cause permanent damage.