As its name suggests, female pattern baldness is a type of hair loss that only affects women. This genetic condition causes your hair to fall out in random patches. Also known as androgenetic alopecia, it shares a lot of similarities with male pattern baldness.
Here are four things you should know about female pattern baldness.
1. Your Risk Increases with Age
As a rule, genetic hair loss can occur at any age. But in women, it most often happens once they reach their 40s and 50s. It’s also important to remember that certain risk factors can speed up the onset of female pattern baldness. These factors include smoking, stress, and some chronic health conditions.
2. You Can’t Prevent It
As we have already explained, hair loss in women is most often genetic. So if either of your parents or some of your family members have experienced it, chances are you will, too. As with any other genetic condition, there’s no way to prevent it.
3. You Can’t Reverse It, Either
Once hair loss starts, there’s no way to reverse it. But some treatments like Minoxidil and Aldactone could help stop hair loss. The latter also helps repair hormonal imbalances that are among the known causes of hair loss. In doing so, it may also help stimulate new hair growth.
4. But You Can Protect Your Hair
Even if you’re prone to genetic hair loss, you can take steps to protect the health of your hair. These steps include a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and avoiding smoking and drinking. You should also opt for hair care products with all-natural ingredients. Finally, remember to protect your hair from environmental damage. If it’s very hot outside, put on a hat or a headscarf before you head out.