UNDERSTANDING FEMALE HAIR LOSS: WHAT CAUSES IT?

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A white background with a few lines on it

PUBLISHED ON:

September 2, 2024
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What Causes Female Hair Loss?

Imagine waking up one day to find more hair on your pillow, in your shower drain, or tangled in your brush. For many women, this isn’t just a passing phase—about half of all women will experience female hair loss at some point in their lives. During my consultations, I hear this story often, and it’s clear that hair loss isn’t just about losing hair; it’s about losing a part of your identity, your confidence. While it’s most common in your 50s or 60s, hair loss can strike at any age, for many reasons. The good news? You don’t have to accept it. Understanding the causes is the first step toward reclaiming your hair and, most importantly, your self-esteem.

The Hair Growth Phases: What’s Going On With Female Hair Loss?

Hair is always in a cycle of growing and shedding, which is why you might not notice the occasional strand falling out. But the real problem starts when a lot of your hair suddenly enters the resting phase at the same time, or when something damages the roots during the growth phase. Normally, your hair is going through one of three phases: growth, transition, or rest. When everything’s working as it should, you don’t even notice. But if too many hairs hit that resting phase all at the same time, or if the roots are compromised, you’ll start seeing more hair loss. It’s not just about what you see on the surface—it’s about understanding what’s happening underneath.

Hormonal Changes: The Rollercoaster Ride of Pregnancy, Menopause, and Female Hair Loss.

Let’s talk hormones—they’re like the ultimate puppeteers behind so much of what’s happening with your hair. During pregnancy, you might feel like you’ve hit the jackpot with thick, luscious locks. That’s because your estrogen levels are on overdrive, keeping your hair in the growth phase longer. But here’s the kicker: once the baby arrives and those hormone levels drop, it can feel like your hair is making a mad dash for the exit. And then there’s menopause, the not-so-subtle reminder that your body is changing again. As estrogen takes a nosedive, so does your hair’s fullness. It’s frustrating, right? These hormonal shifts can be a wild ride, but just because your body is going through changes doesn’t mean you have to give up on feeling like your fabulous self.

The Impact of Surgeries and Medication Side Effects on Female Hair Loss

We all know surgeries—especially those that give us a little extra nip or tuck—can be wonderful for boosting confidence. But here’s the ironic twist: while you might come out looking refreshed and rejuvenated, your hair might not be on the same page. Anesthesia, for example, can throw your body into a bit of a panic, pushing your hair into the resting phase faster than you’d expect. A few months later, you might notice more hair shedding than usual. And let’s not forget about medications—whether it’s something for blood pressure, acne, or even those mood boosters, they can sometimes have the unexpected side effect of making your hair thin out. 


Chemotherapy, of course, is a well-known culprit, targeting fast-growing cells, including those in your hair follicles. So while plastic surgery might tighten things up, your hair might need a little extra TLC afterward to keep up with the new, fabulous you.

Gut Health and Rapid Weight Loss: The Hidden Culprits Behind Hair Loss

Let’s dive into something that’s been flying under the radar but is crucial for your hair: gut health. Your gut does way more than just digest food—it’s the powerhouse behind nutrient absorption, which is key for keeping your hair strong and healthy. But when your gut is out of whack, whether from stress, diet, or illness, it can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins B and D, which your hair desperately needs.


Now, let’s talk about rapid weight loss. We’re seeing this a lot in the salon right now—medications like Ozempic and Monjaro are fantastic for shedding pounds, but they can also lead to shedding hair. The rapid weight loss they trigger can shock your system, and your hair might take a break as a result. When your body is in overdrive trying to adjust, it often prioritizes vital functions over hair growth, leading to thinning or shedding. But don’t worry—with the right hair care from Glam.Is.On, you can keep both your body and your hair looking amazing.

Don’t Just Accept Hair Loss—Take Action Now

Hair loss isn’t just a physical change; it’s an emotional journey, and trust me, I’ve been there. After having my fifth child, I experienced a massive loss of hair, and it rocked my confidence in ways I never expected. That’s what led me to discover Natural Beaded Rows (NBR) hair extensions. I knew that if I could find something to help me feel like myself again, I had to bring this to other women too. You don’t have to just accept hair loss as your new reality. There are solutions out there—like NBR—that can help you regain not only your hair but also your confidence. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling empowered, taking control, and knowing that you’re not alone in this journey. Don’t let hair loss define you—take action and feel fabulous again.