Understanding Hair Fall in Women

a. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can trigger hair fall in women.

b. Genetics: Female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a hereditary condition characterized by progressive thinning of hair on the scalp.

c. Telogen Effluvium: A temporary form of hair loss caused by significant physical or emotional stress, surgery, illness, or drastic weight loss.

d. Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, biotin, zinc, and vitamin D, can lead to hair loss.

e. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases (e.g., alopecia areata), and scalp infections can contribute to hair fall.

f. Hairstyling and Chemical Treatments: Excessive use of harsh hair products, heat styling tools, and chemical treatments can damage the hair shaft, leading to breakage and hair fall.

g. Traction Alopecia: Constantly pulling the hair into tight hairstyles (e.g., braids, ponytails) can cause hair loss around the hairline and temples.

When you visit a dermatologist for hair fall concerns, they will conduct a thorough examination and may also perform the following diagnostic tests:

a. Medical History: Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj will inquire about your medical history, family history of hair loss, recent life events, and any underlying health conditions.

b. Scalp Examination: Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj will examine your scalp for signs of inflammation, redness, scaling, or infections.

c. Pull Test: A simple test where the dermatologist gently pulls a few hairs to assess the number of hairs shed and their condition.

d. Blood Tests: These tests can help identify any nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to hair fall.

e. Scalp Biopsy: In rare cases, a small sample of scalp tissue may be taken for microscopic examination to diagnose certain hair loss disorders.

a. Lifestyle Changes: If your hair fall is due to nutritional deficiencies or lifestyle factors, Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj may recommend dietary modifications, stress reduction techniques, and gentle hair care practices.

b. Medications: Depending on the underlying cause, your dermatologist may prescribe medications such as minoxidil (topical solution) or finasteride (oral) to promote hair growth and prevent further loss.

c. Hormonal Therapies: For hair fall related to hormonal imbalances, hormonal therapies, such as oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications, may be prescribed.

d.  Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

e. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): LLLT devices use red light to promote hair growth and improve hair density.

f. Hair Transplantation: In cases of advanced female pattern hair loss, hair transplantation may be considered as a surgical option.