Tips for stopping women's hair loss

Theresa George, Special to The News-Press 10 a.m. EST December 14, 2015

Signs of excessive hair loss includes loss of more than 200 hairs in one day.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Thinning hair is a common issue women face at one time or another throughout their lifetimes. According to the American Dermatology Association, the condition affects over 30 million women, but there are treatment and styling options.

Signs of excessive hair loss includes loss of more than 200 hairs in one day, a narrowing of pony tail diameter, a widening part bald or thin spots on the head.

According to Dr. Andrea Cambio, of Cambio Dermatology in Cape Coral, there are various types of hair loss that affect women.

Androgenic alopecia is a type of gradual hair thinning that occurs with age. It is a hereditary type of hair loss precipitated by male hormones or "androgens."   These hormones cause the hairs to become miniature and result in a slowdown in hair growth. This translates into finer hairs and decreased hair density, especially on the 1/3 of the scalp.  Treatment options include topical minoxidil. Cambio said.

Telogen effluvium is a sudden type of hair shedding that occurs when hair hairs are forced into the telogen or shedding cycle.   This can be brought on by a sudden stressful event 3-6 months prior to the start of the hair loss. It can affect women of any age, she said.

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs from the use of tight hairstyles including braids, ponytails and extensions that cause pulling or press on the hair shaft which can disrupt the hair follicle.  This type of hair loss causes hair thinning or balding in these areas which can be temporary or permanent. It can occur in women of any age, and even in young girls.  With this type of condition, corticosteroids preparations and corticosteroid injections can help decrease inflammation and stimulate regrowth, Cambio said.

Medical causes such as thyroid disease, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease and rheumatological disorders can also cause hair loss.  Hair loss of this nature can be seen in women of any age with these medical conditions, she said.

Exercising, getting plenty of sleep and minimizing stress are also tools to minimize hair loss, Cambio said.

Master colorist Sue Endres of Fort Myers says women have numerous options at the salon available to keep thinning hair looking and feeling its best.

"The use of natural hair care products are key to creating the best environment for healthy hair," Endres said.

Endres uses the MONAT hair line which significantly reduces hair loss and increases hair regrowth.  MONAT's Rejuvenique Oil is derived from Abyssinian oil which mimics the body's natural oils to replenish and repair the hair and skin.

The line also contains Capixil with red clover extract which helps reduce scalp inflammation and strengthens the hair while stimulating natural growth.  Procataline with pea extract is also a key ingredient which preserves the hair follicle and maintains healthy levels of antioxidants to combat hair loss. Crodasorb absorbs UV light to protect hair from sun damage and preserve natural color.

"To help hair look thicker, a good cut with layers on the side and top is ideal.  This helps to give lift to hair lift and give a fuller look," Endres said.

"It is also essential that the stylist makes sure the style fits the clients face."

Another way to add fullness to fine, thin hair is color and highlights. Endres said.

"Permanent color is a great way to protect the hair and adding highlights helps the hair strands swell, giving the illusion of thicker hair," she added.

To maintain the hairstyle, Endres recommends a cut and color every 6-8 weeks.

For more information about cuts, color and MONAT hair products for thinning hair contact Sue Endres at sendres.mymonat.com.

For information about Cambio Dermatology visit cambiodermatology.com.

Theresa George is a certified medical electrologist, esthetician, LMT and freelance beauty writer. She has worked in the beauty industry for 16 years and owns Theresa's Face and Body in Cape Coral. For more information, visit www.theresasfaceandbody.com 

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