Hair Loss in Women
Causes, symptoms and treatments for female hair loss, plus practical steps to protect density and support healthier-looking hair.
Although hair loss is often associated with men, it is also very common in women. Over half of women experience some degree of thinning by age 40, with prevalence increasing further with age.
Some forms of female hair loss are temporary, while others are progressive. Identifying the likely cause is therefore an important first step before choosing treatments, supplements or changes to your routine.
The three primary types of hair loss in women.
Most female hair loss falls broadly into one of these categories, although more than one factor can sometimes be involved.
Anagen Effluvium
Rapid hair loss caused by treatments or events that affect follicles during the active growth phase, such as chemotherapy.
Telogen Effluvium
A larger-than-normal number of hairs enter the resting and shedding phase, often following illness, significant stress, hormonal change or nutritional deficiency.
Female Pattern Hair Loss
A common, progressive form of thinning that often appears as reduced density across the top and crown, together with a gradually widening part.
Why does women's hair thin?
- Female pattern hair loss: Often begins with diffuse thinning around the centre parting and top of the scalp.
- Menopause and perimenopause: Hormonal changes can affect the hair growth cycle, density and strand quality.
- Postpartum shedding: A common period of temporary increased shedding following pregnancy.
- Seasonal shedding: Some women experience temporary increases in hair fall at particular times of year.
- Other factors: Thyroid problems, iron or vitamin deficiencies, rapid weight loss, stress, medications, traction and scalp conditions can all contribute.
Typical symptoms and patterns.
- A gradually widening part
- Increased scalp visibility around the top and crown
- Reduced ponytail volume
- Hair becoming finer or less resilient
- Periods of noticeably heavier shedding
- Itching, scaling or scalp tenderness that may require medical assessment
How to treat hair loss in women.
There is no single treatment that suits every woman. The right approach depends on the cause, stage of thinning, medical history and whether hormonal or nutritional factors are involved.
Topical Minoxidil
An established topical option used for female pattern hair loss. Consistent use may help maintain density and stimulate growth in some women.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Laser caps, combs and similar devices may be used as a non-invasive addition to an established routine.
Ketoconazole Shampoo
Often incorporated into scalp-care routines, particularly where dandruff, inflammation or seborrhoeic dermatitis is present.
PRP Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma is an in-clinic procedure that may be used alongside other approaches to support hair density.
Hormone-Focused Care
Where menopause, PCOS or another hormonal issue is contributing, appropriate medical assessment can help determine the best approach.
Microneedling
Controlled scalp microneedling is sometimes used alongside topical treatments and should be approached carefully.
Nutritional Support
Iron, vitamin D and other nutritional deficiencies can affect hair health. Relevant deficiencies should be identified rather than assumed.
Hair Transplant
Surgical transplantation may be an option for selected women with stable loss and sufficient donor hair.
Hair changes happen gradually.
Many established approaches require around 3–6 months of consistent use before meaningful changes can be assessed. Results will vary according to the cause and stage of hair loss.
Add HR23+® to your daily hair routine.
HR23+® is a comprehensive, non-medical hair supplement developed for women experiencing thinning, excessive shedding and changes in hair density.
- 23 carefully selected ingredients
- Supports normal hair and follicle health
- Suitable for consistent long-term use
- Can complement topical and scalp-care routines
Lifestyle and scalp-care basics.
Small habits will not reverse every form of hair loss, but they can help support overall hair and scalp health.
Not all female hair loss is the same.
If shedding is sudden, severe, patchy, accompanied by scalp symptoms, or follows a significant health or medication change, speak to your GP, dermatologist or another suitably qualified healthcare professional. Identifying the cause is the most important first step.