Thinning Hair for Women and Men

Hair loss affects more than 60 million people in the US. There are many causes of thinning hair, and there may be multiple causes at work in a person who experiences hair loss. Genes, stress, inadequate diet, illness and the use of various medications are some of the most common reasons for hair loss. After childbirth women may also experience hair loss. Hereditary hair loss in men and women is the most common cause. It is important to note what scientists over the years have discovered does not cause hair loss; hair products or shampoo, the wearing of hats or helmets, clogged hair follicles, poor blood circulation or scalp mites. Certain products may cause hair breakage, but have been shown to have no effect on hair loss.

Androgenic alopecia is the medical term for hereditary hair loss. The DNA that causes hair loss may be passed from either parent. Ninety-nine percent of premature hair loss is hereditary, two-thirds of which are male-pattern baldness. Of men over fifty, about fifty percent have hereditary thinning hair. The cause is the same in men and women but the pattern of thinning hair differs. Women lose hair along the forehead and temples while men's hair loss starts at the temples and crown. Male-pattern hereditary hair loss usually begins before the teenage years. In women it may begin at puberty, but usually begins between the mid 20s to early 30s.

Some people opt for a layered haircut to help conceal hair loss. Toupees and hair extensions are a solution for some. Other treatment options are regrowth products such as Minoxidil, the only drug approved for women's hair loss. This type of topical treatment may be effective for some, however it only prevents hair loss and only starts new growth if you continue to use the product.