Hair Loss & Women

Although hair loss and baldness are typically associated with men, women can lose their hair as well. Though it is more common in men, thinning hair is a natural part of aging. According to the Mayo Clinic Health Letter for April, genetics plays a strong role in determining hair loss.

The Mayo Clinic explains that the medical term for thinning hair is known as Androgenetic alopecia. Women rarely experience full hair loss or baldness. Instead, hair loss in women usually manifests as thinning of the hair on the entire head.

Currently, there is no cure for hair loss. However, the Mayo Clinic does offer several suggestions for the treatment of thinning hair. These suggestions include:

• Topical medication such as Rogaine. This is the only approved nonprescription medication for women. Available in a solution or as a foam, a woman can massage the medication into her scalp twice a day to slow hair loss. Though it does not work for every individual, the medication may encourage hair growth if used consistently for at least six months.
• Hair Transplants. The success rate for transplants is approximately 95 percent. The procedure is considered to be safe and effective.
• Scalp Reduction and Flap Surgery. Though usually only performed on men, women may benefit from these procedures as well. Scalp reduction removes skin from the scalp that no longer has hair. Flap surgery involves moving the scalp that contains hair to an area that lacks hair.

The Mayo Clinic also recommends non-medical options such as changing your hairstyle to hide hair loss, or obtaining a hair piece or wig to cover up thinning hair.