When Women Lose Their Hair

When we think of hair loss, we tend to think of men. After all, most commercials and advertisements for hair-loss treatments tend to focus on the male audience, and it’s not uncommon to see male celebrities like Ed Harris, Bruce Willis, and Larry David openly owning their baldness with humor and sex appeal.

However, women also grapple with hair loss. Conditions such as alopecia can strike men and women alike, and other health issues can impact hair growth and volume regardless of gender.

Moreover, that likelihood increases as women age. In fact, 40 percent of women over the age of 40 report noticeable hair thinning. And, according to the North American Menopause Society, almost half of all women experience hair thinning by age 50. Shifting hormones during perimenopause and menopause could be to blame for hair loss; stress, illness, and other health conditions (such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) may also play a role. Furthermore, while many people are aware that cancer drugs can lead to hair loss, medications for common conditions such as depression, acne, high blood pressure, and arthritis can also lead to hair thinning and loss.

While hair loss is sometimes expected as a result of a known condition, it can also be a warning sign or symptom of an undiagnosed health condition (such as a thyroid issue). Therefore, if you notice sudden hair thinning or hair loss, it’s important to talk to your doctor to find out why this is occurring. Rule out whether there is something serious to be worried about. Your doctor can also talk to you about your options for treatments if you so desire.

Personally, I think there is a new bald trend happening among women lately — just check out these bald, beautiful celebrities — and embracing your baldness can be powerful and inspirational to others. We all inevitably change over time as we age, and whether it’s wrinkles or hair loss, these marks of aging don’t have to be shied away from or hidden.

If you want to try to improve the volume and strength of your hair, consider these tips:

Avoid painful extensions. It might be tempting to turn to extensions to bulk up your hair, but these can actually be damaging to your hair because they pull on the strands. Not to mention, they are often uncomfortable and unpleasant to deal with. Instead, ask your hairstylist for a light, layered cut that will play up your hair’s volume and frame your face.

Cut down on styling. Frying your hair with a blow dryer and flat iron will only further weaken your strands. Let your hair air-dry when possible or use the lowest heat setting possible.

Make sure you are getting enough vitamins. Hair and nails can become weak and break easily when your vitamin levels are low. Make sure you are getting enough B vitamins and eat a plant-rich diet. Fruits and veggies are the best beauty secret out there, and they make you feel good to boot!

Use a hyaluronic-acid shampoo. It helps to keep your scalp healthy and your locks strong.

Rock a new look. Channel your favorite bald celeb and simply rock your lighter, smoother look. Read my story of how I embraced my inner bald chick.