Hair loss doesn’t only cause problems for men but for women, too. And just like men, women also tend to believe some common misconceptions about this issue. Here we’ll take a look at the five most prevalent myths about hair loss in women and explain the truth behind them.
1. It’s Always Genetic
Yes, it is true that hair loss in women can sometimes be genetic. Also known as female pattern baldness, it usually starts with thinning hair at the top of the head. But other than that, hair loss in women is quite often the result of an underlying health problem.
2. It Only Happens at an Older Age
This is one of the most common myths about hair loss in women. The truth is that hair loss can start at a young age, usually not before you turn 20. This, of course, depends on a lot of factors. They include hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.
3. It Has Nothing to Do with Your Hairstyle
Wrong. Hair loss has a lot to do with your hairstyle. Wearing ponytails, braids, and tight buns can result in a condition called traction alopecia. If you don’t change your hairstyle, this could lead to permanent hair loss and scarring of the scalp.
4. But It Has to Do with Your Testosterone Levels
One of the most enduring myths about hair loss is that high testosterone levels cause it. But testosterone isn’t the culprit. Instead, it’s DHT, a derivative of testosterone that your body makes. As a rule, the women whose bodies convert more testosterone into DHT are more likely to experience hair loss.
5. Hair Loss Is Always Permanent
While some forms of hair loss are permanent, most others are just temporary. For example, postpartum hair loss usually resolves itself within a year of giving birth. And if your hair loss is due to a medical condition, it may go away once you receive proper treatment. The first step of the process is to identify the cause of your hair loss, and that’s something your dermatologist can help you with.
