Hair is more than just a physical attribute—it’s a symbol of identity, femininity, and personal confidence. For many women, the first signs of hair thinning can trigger emotional distress, anxiety, and even depression. Hair loss is often seen as a “men’s issue,” yet millions of women silently struggle. Understanding why it happens and knowing that it can be managed or reversed is the first step towards getting back your hair and your self-esteem.
Female Hair Loss: Patterns, Triggers, and Types:
Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)
Hair loss in women can happen for various reasons with complex root causes, but one of the most common causes is Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL), also known as androgenetic alopecia. Thirty million American women between 40-60 years old are affected by this common form of hair loss. This type of hair loss is genetic and progressive, typically starting with a widening part or overall thinning on the crown. Unlike men, women rarely go completely bald, but the loss can still be very upsetting.
Unlike normal hair shedding, which involves losing approximately 50 to 100 hairs a day as part of a healthy growth cycle, FPHL causes miniaturization of the hair follicles. Over time, hairs grow back thinner, shorter, and less pigmented until they stop growing entirely.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is another common form of hair loss in women, characterized by sudden shedding rather than gradual thinning. Unlike FPHL, which develops slowly over time, Telogen Effluvium often begins abruptly, typically two to three months after a significant physical or emotional stressor. These triggers can include rapid weight loss, extreme dieting, illness, surgery, childbirth, or even a traumatic event.
This type of hair loss occurs when a higher than normal number of hair follicles enter the telogen phase (resting phase) leading to hair shedding. Women may see more hair coming out during brushing, showering, or on their pillow. Telogen Effluvium is typically temporary and reversible once the root cause is identified.
Other factors affecting hair thinning or loss:
While Female Pattern Hair Loss and Telogen Effluvium are commonly seen in women, they are only 2 pieces of a much larger puzzle. Numerous external and internal factors can either worsen hair loss or cause separate forms of hair thinning.
- Hormonal imbalance: PCOS, menopause, and thyroid disorders can alter androgen levels, accelerating hair thinning.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Low levels of iron, zinc, vitamin D, and biotin are commonly associated with poor hair health.
- Stress: Chronic stress triggers inflammation and can disrupt the hair cycle, pushing more follicles into the shedding phase.
- Chemical exposure: Harsh dyes, relaxers, and certain shampoos can damage the scalp and follicles.
- Autoimmune conditions: Conditions like alopecia areata, an autoimmune-related hair loss, where the body attacks its own hair follicles. This can lead to patchy or overall hair loss.
The emotional toll of hair loss
Hair loss is not just a cosmetic concern, it’s a psychological one. In many cases, the emotional impact of hair loss is more profound in women than in men, due to cultural and societal pressures around appearance. Studies show that women dealing with visible hair thinning often experience lower self-esteem, social withdrawal, increased anxiety, and even clinical depression. This doesn't have to be you. There are treatments and healthy lifestyle habits that may help.
Hair loss can be restored—start sooner rather than later
If acted on early, many forms of hair loss, including FPHL can be slowed, stopped, or even partially reversed. Here are some treatment options to consider:
Topical, oral medications, and supplements:
Minoxidil: This comes in both topical and oral formulations and is FDA-approved for female hair loss. It can help support increased blood flow to the scalp and enlarged hair follicles, helping stimulate regrowth.
Spironolactone: This is an oral medication that helps block androgen receptors. It is commonly used in women with hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS-related hair thinning.
Collagen: This is a key structural protein that supports hair strength and elasticity. Supplementing with collagen may help improve hair thickness and reduce breakage, especially when paired with a nutrient-rich diet.
Ceramosides®: This is a clinically studied, plant-based lipid complex that helps restore the skin barrier and retain moisture. Supplementation may improve scalp hydration and reduce dryness-related hair breakage, supporting a healthier hair growth environment.
Lifestyle Approaches
- Correct nutrient deficiencies: Ensure adequate levels of iron (especially ferritin), zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins.
- Reduce inflammation and stress: Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants.
- Cortisol-lowering practices: Reduce stress with mindfulness, exercise, and sleep.
- Scalp health: Gentle scalp massage can enhance circulation. Brush hair gently and avoid tight ponytails and braids.
Conclusion: Reclaiming your hair, confidence, and control
Hair loss in women is deeply personal, but it is not hopeless. With the right knowledge, action, and treatment strategy, many women may be able to slow or even reverse hair loss. It’s time to normalize the conversation, prioritize a treatment, and heal emotionally.
Let us help you shed those insecurities and be the real you! The earlier you address the root cause, the sooner you can focus on regaining your confidence.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24943-female-pattern-baldness
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24486-telogen-effluvium
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8719979/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37719557/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32184564/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5315033/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34159872/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16921-hair-loss-in-women
https://www.seppic.com/en-US/product/ceramosides
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen
Written by: Kory Morse, M.S., Head of Member Education at Shed
Kory is a certified holistic health and life coach with a Master of Science in Integrative and Functional Nutrition, specializing in research, biochemistry, and systems biology. As Head of Education at Shed and a member of the supplement research team, she blends scientific expertise with a compassionate, curiosity-driven approach to support lasting, sustainable change. Her mission is to make health feel accessible, empowering, and deeply personal.
