Hair loss in women and men

Hair loss is a common concern for both men and women. In this article we’ll have a look at some causes and treatments, as well as clarify the most common concerns.

Let's start with two key questions: is hair loss a hereditary issue and who is most affected, men or women?

Common baldness is in fact influenced by genetics. It is triggered by a high level of dihydrotestosterone in the blood which acts through receptors on the scalp, setting the alopecia process in motion.

Women, in general, don't have high levels of dihydrotestosterone, and therefore the process of alopecia is not activated as easily nor as frequently. Some women may experience some hair loss after childbirth because of the hormonal readjustment that occurs during pregnancy. However, this hormone imbalance can be corrected in postpartum treatment.

Common hair loss myths

Besides genetic and hormonal causes, there is also the widespread idea that aesthetic hair treatments and their products cause hair loss. The reality is that hair treatments affect the hair in various ways, depending on the composition of the product. But it should be noted that commonly used hair colour products do not affect the hair root and therefore, although some may attack the hair, the nascent hair is not affected and over time, the structure and appearance of new hair growth will be normal.

There is also the belief that hair loss can occur after summer. In this sense, it is necessary to remember that the sun can induce alopecia, and despite advice to protect the scalp, many people do not wear sun hats. We also have to remember that the end of summer coincides with the natural seasonal turnover of hair.

Treatment for hair loss

Hair loss can be avoided with effective treatment, which will counteract the reason for the loss. There are highly effective treatments for common male alopecia but they have to be taken for a very long time. For female alopecia, it is necessary to determine the cause, which in many cases is hormonal, and correct it.

Regarding treatment times, when it comes to alopecia due to destabilisation, such as a lack of iron, it should be treated until the deficiency is normalised. If it is androgenic alopecia, the treatment has no time limit since androgenic alopecia constantly evolves.

Remember, hair can always be strengthened with nutricosmetics and topical products, such as conditioners.