The causes of hair loss in women are extremely varied, and we often don’t realise just how many factors might be behind it. Hair loss is not merely a cosmetic concern; it can also be an early sign of more serious medical conditions, which is why it is important to pay attention to the condition of our hair.

The causes of hair loss include genetic factors, hormonal changes – such as the menopause – vitamin deficiencies, certain medical conditions, and the side effects of some medicines. The process of hair loss is often complex, as several factors can collectively influence the functioning of the hair follicles. Hormonal changes play a particularly important role in women, and can cause hair loss either suddenly or over a longer period of time. This is precisely why it is worth identifying the underlying cause of hair loss in good time, so that we can restore the health of our hair with the appropriate treatment.

Hereditary hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is a common cause of changes in the condition of the hair. This condition, also known as male-pattern hair loss, can affect both men and women, and without appropriate treatment, the condition worsens over time.

In women, hair loss affects the entire scalp, which can lead to significant thinning of the hair and the scalp becoming visible. The amount of hair shed can indicate the extent of hereditary hair loss. The first noticeable sign of hereditary hair loss is usually general hair strand thinning and a widening of the parting.

It is important to note that if hereditary hair loss has already occurred in your family, it is highly likely that you will not be spared either, so it is worth consulting a specialist as soon as possible to stop hair loss or even reverse the process.

Natural hormonal fluctuations – such as during pregnancy, the postnatal period or the menopause – as well as the use of hormonal contraceptives, can affect the hair growth cycle, thereby leading to increased hair loss. Hormonal changes within the body can directly influence the extent of hair loss, so recognising and managing these changes can be crucial to maintaining healthy hair.

It is important to note that hormonal imbalances can also result from medical conditions, such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), in which levels of androgens – male sex hormones – rise, which can cause hair loss and weakening of the hair.

In cases of hormone-induced hair loss, women may also experience androgenetic alopecia, also known as hair loss in women, but natural hormonal changes can even cause telogen effluvium, which is a form of temporary hair loss.

Although it is not widely known, our hair ages just as much as the skin on our face. Even if you do not experience any hair problems when you are young, you can still expect your hair to thin and become weaker as you get older. In later life, it is common to experience increased hair loss, which is a natural part of the ageing process. The menopause does not help matters either, as the associated hormonal changes can accelerate the ageing process. The passage of time can also exacerbate hereditary hair loss, so ultimately it is definitely worth treating your scalp to some form of anti-ageing treatment.

Hair loss works at a cellular level; by utilising the body’s own regenerative processes, it is able to rejuvenate the scalp and slow down scalp ageing.

Prolonged stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and may even lead to diffuse hair loss affecting the entire scalp, a condition also known as telogen effluvium. Anxiety and psychological pressure cause the body to produce more cortisol, which can lead to a number of health problems, one of which is simply the onset of severe hair loss. In this case, the majority of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase, resulting in significant hair loss. It is important to note that stress-induced hair loss can be an ongoing process that may persist for an extended period.

In cases of stress-induced hair loss, managing stress and restoring the hair growth cycle are the main priorities. The latter can be achieved with Denza laser hair treatment, as the non-ablative laser energy is capable of bringing hair follicles into the anagen, or growth, phase and keeping them there.

A deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, biotin or vitamin D, can have a negative impact on the condition of your hair. As a result of an inadequate diet or drastic weight-loss diets, hair can become thinner and hair loss may occur. A balanced diet is also extremely important for the health of our hair; we must not deprive our hair follicles of nutrients. Regular intake of certain nutrients is therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the hair follicles, the health of the scalp and to support hair growth.

If you’re unsure what nutrient deficiency might be causing the problem, or how to treat it, it’s worth seeking expert advice. Taking vitamin supplements is not as straightforward as you might think at first; it’s not worth taking just anything – instead, have a laboratory test carried out so that the expert will know exactly which vitamins you need.

An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause a hormonal imbalance, which can significantly affect the health of your hair and lead to hair loss or thinning. Furthermore, autoimmune thyroid disorders also increase the risk of patchy hair loss.

In hypothyroidism, keratinocytes – cells that play a major role in hair formation – are unable to multiply properly, thereby significantly reducing the hair follicle’s ability to grow hair. The hair becomes brittle, thin and lacklustre, and severe hair loss may also occur.

Hyperthyroidism does not necessarily cause hair loss on its own, but a reduction in hair quality and volume may occur as a side effect of the medication used to treat the condition.

A well-adjusted course of medication can help restore the health of both the thyroid and your hair, so be sure to consult an endocrinologist if you suspect you have a thyroid problem! In cases of hair loss caused by thyroid problems, it is important to improve blood flow to the scalp and stimulate the functioning of the hair follicles – areas in which Denza laser hair treatment provides effective, professional help.

The health of the scalp is crucial for hair growth. Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or other skin conditions can damage the scalp and even the hair follicles, and may lead to hair loss.

It is important to note that Denza laser hair treatment can only be used following the treatment of scalp conditions; however, as part of our hair treatment protocol, you can also undergo a dermatological examination, allowing you to say goodbye to scalp conditions and hair loss quickly and easily.

Excessive heat styling, frequent hair dyeing, the use of chemicals, and wearing hair in tight plaits can not only damage the hair’s structure but also cause hair loss. ‘Traction’ alopecia is a type of hair loss that develops as a result of the effects of tight hairstyles on the hair. Hairstyles that are too tight and constant pulling on the hair can loosen the hair shafts, causing them to fall out at the points of tension.

As well as being gentle on your hair, it is important to incorporate treatments into your haircare routine that do not merely treat the surface of the hair, but also target the scalp and stimulate hair growth.

To prevent hair loss, it is particularly important to lead a healthy lifestyle and take a conscious approach to your wellbeing. The causes of hair loss in women are often linked to nutritional deficiencies, so it is worth ensuring you regularly supplement your diet with iron, zinc and B vitamins, as these nutrients are essential for the healthy functioning of hair follicles.

A balanced, vitamin-rich diet, along with proper scalp care, can help prevent hair loss. Maintaining hormonal balance is also crucial, as hormonal changes – such as the menopause or stress – are often the underlying cause of hair loss. In cases of severe hair loss, it is definitely worth seeking expert advice, as there may be more serious underlying conditions requiring prompt treatment. Remember, preventing hair loss in women depends not only on external care, but also on maintaining the body’s internal balance!

One of the most effective solutions for treating hair loss in women is the Denza laser hair treatment. How does this modern laser treatment affect your hair and scalp?