What you don't know about Female Pattern Hair Loss (that might surprise you!)
Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) impacts the lives of women everywhere. While it mainly affects women forty-years and older, FPHL can impact a woman at any time in her life. If you’re suffering from FPHL, read up on some of its basic characteristics.
Genetically Caused
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most FPHL patients can trace back their hair loss genetically. In combination with genetics, postmenopausal women have greater run-ins with FPHL due to internal hormonal changes, chemical balances, and general aging. To be on the safe side, we recommend that our clients make an appointment with an endocrinologist check their hormone levels and blood count. Offset hormones and iron deficiency can also contribute to hair loss and might be the start of a larger problem.
Slow to Show
One major sign of FPHL is thinning of hair over time, rather than all at once. While it doesn’t normally affect the natural hair line, FPHL gradually thins hair from across your head. Some women notice thinning on the part of their hair or when pulling their hair tight into a bun. As it progresses, you’ll begin to notice thinning on your scalp near the crown of you head.
Cut out Bad Products
If you begin to notice signs of FPHL, reevaluate your hair care routine and products. Often, our shampoos, conditioners, and styling products leave behind residue which can build-up in hair follicles. Clogged follicles and a dry scalp slow hair growth, which can speed up the process of FPHL. Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for hair loss. Avoid using all chemically-based hair growth products (like Rogaine) because it will create a dependency that could result in more hair loss. Hair fiber products, such as ones used to add thickness to hair, should also be avoided. Aside from clogging hair follicles, they can sometimes contain metallic dyes which can irritate your scalp and growing hair. We suggest switching to the Eufora Thickening Line to help strengthen and reactivate your follicles, which you can read about here.
Treat your Scalp Right
Switching out your hair products is only half of the battle when it comes to treating FPHL. Massaging your scalp regularly increases blood flow to the follicles, which helps boost growth. Hair is a little complex and sometimes needs extra attention. By increasing blood across your head, you’re essentially providing each follicle with their nutrients it needs to promote growth!
Wigs can Protect Your Hair
Shed the age-old believe that wigs actually encourage hair loss! Wigs actually protect the scalp and growing follicles and cut down on physical stress related to FPHL. Full-coverage wigs are the best option because they act as a barrier between your hair and the elements. Hairpieces can be worn, but it is best to do so under the recommendation of an expert to make sure that the right size and type of hairpiece is selected that won’t cause further damage to your hair.
Lastly, it’s always best to consult with us before trying out wigs on your own! After all, we’re the experts! Questions? Feel free to reach out to info@wiglift.com.