Causes and Treatments for Female Pattern Hair Loss

Hair is a woman’s crowning glory. Many spend thousands to make that crown smooth, shiny, and luscious. But at some point, most women will experience hair loss and thinning. Especially with ageing.

As a matter of fact, according to NHS England, one-third of women experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Moreover, two-thirds of postmenopausal women suffer from thinning and bald spots. Less than 45% reach 80 years old with a full head of hair.

Because hair is very important to women, hair loss has a deeper impact on their psychological and social well-being.

What causes hair loss among women?
Female Pattern Hair Loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in women. Dermatologists also find it to be one of the most common chronic problems in the world.

While it may be caused by several factors including genetics, pattern hair loss often involves hormonal changes in the body. After menopause, the estrogen in women’s bodies are no longer able to counter Dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

According to the Association of Dermatologists, DHT causes a change in the hair follicles on the scalp. The hairs from those follicles become smaller in diameter, shorter in length and lighter in colour until the follicles stop producing hair all together.

Androgenetic alopecia occurs in both men and women, with men suffering from receding hairlines to form an “M” shape. In women, while hairlines rarely recede, gradual thinning occurs until the parting becomes almost see-through that the top of the scalp is visible through the hair.

Low-Level Laser for Pattern Hair Loss
There are only three FDA approved/cleared treatments for pattern hair loss — Finasteride (for men only), Minoxidil, and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for both men and women. The latter has become a highly in-demand treatment for hair loss.

According to a study published on US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, LLLT is a safe and effective hair growth treatment for men and women with little or no side effects.

The leading company offering LLLT devices for hair loss is HairMax. The company has undergone multiple clinical trials and is the first laser hair growth device to be granted FDA Clearance.

The HairMax LaserBand 82 is the newest device in their range. Its unique band design and 82 medical-grade lasers stimulate hair follicles, reverse hair thinning, and restore natural growth.

The patented hair parting teeth, exclusive to HairMax devices, parts the hair during treatment to make sure the optimal laser light effectively reaches the follicles.

“HairMax laser treatments have been proven both safe and effective with an over 90% success rate in clinical studies” stated Francesca Dubsky, Director of Marketing for HairMax.

“We truly understand the emotional impact hair loss has on both men and women. We are proud to offer a doctor recommended treatment to help people restore their hair and self-confidence”.