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How to Deal With Permanent Hair Loss for Women

Men are not the only people who struggle with hair loss. According to the American Hair Loss Association, 40 percent of those suffering from thinning hair and bald patches are female. Female pattern baldness occurs due to genetics, hormones and aging. It can be devastating for the women affected. Normally hair grows about 1/2-inch per month, or about 6 inches per year. At any time, roughly 15 percent of the hair is falling out, to be replaced by a new strand of hair. However, as some women age the hairs are not replaced causing permanent hair loss.

Things You'll Need

  • Minioxidil
  • Hair piece
  • Hair stylist
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Instructions

  1. How to Deal with Permanent Hair Loss for Women

    • 1

      Try minoxidil. This topical application has been shown to regrow hair in 25 percent of women, according to the American Hair Loss Association. Minoxidil 2 percent solution is the only FDA-approved treatment for female pattern baldness and the results are not permanent. Once the topical application ceases, the hair falls out again.

    • 2

      Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy. Some women lose hair because of a lack of estrogen and progesterone after menopause or because of a full hysterectomy where the ovaries are removed. HRT can replace those hormones and restore the hair. HRT has many side effects that should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

    • 3

      Transplant some permanent hair. Pittsburgh-area cosmetic surgeon Dominic A. Brandy, board certified by the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, suggests that hair transplantation in thinning hair can be very successful as it can be easily blended into existing hair. There is a small risk of infection with hair transplantation, but the results are permanent.

    • 4

      Bond a hairpiece to your existing hair. Hair weaves, wigs and toppers (small hair pieces) can be bonded for significant periods of time to the scalp to make life easier for hair loss sufferers who may not want to add a hairpiece each day. The Women's Hair Loss Project reports that these types of enhancements cost between $450 and $1500 and purchasers can expect to spend an additional $15 per month on glue or tape.
      Ask for recommendations for a hair stylist experienced in styling thinning hair to look fuller, or in styling hairpieces into existing hair.

    • 5

      Get some support and tips from a local group. A listing of hair loss support groups can be found at http://www.americanhairloss.org/hair_loss_organizations.

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