Hair thinning can be subtle at first but it’s often your body’s early warning sign. From a widening part to increased shedding, understanding the first signs of hair loss empowers women to take action before it progresses. Medical Director of DHI South Africa, Dr Dhesan Moodley (MB.Ch.B; MBA) explains what to watch for, what causes hair loss in women, and when to seek professional help.
Hair loss is a deeply personal and often distressing experience for many women yet it’s far more common than most realise. The early signs can be easy to overlook: a thinner ponytail, more hair on your pillow, or a scalp that seems more visible than before. Recognising these changes early is crucial, as timely intervention can slow progression and, in many cases, restore healthy growth.
According to Dr Dhesan Moodley, female hair loss is usually multifactorial. While genetics play a significant role, hormonal shifts, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, lifestyle habits, and even everyday hairstyling choices can all contribute. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward effective, personalised treatment, especially as hair loss becomes an increasing concern among younger women as well. Below, he further enlightens.
Recognising the First Signs
Notice your part widening or your ponytail thinning? These are often the earliest signs of hair loss in women. Don’t ignore persistent changes like brittle hair, increased shedding, or a scalp that’s suddenly more visible—early action is key.
When to Seek Help
See a hair specialist if you’re losing hair rapidly, have bald spots, or your scalp feels itchy, red, or painful. Gradually thinning hair, especially if it runs in your family, also warrants a professional checkup.
What Causes Hair Loss in Women?
For most women, genetics are the main factor—up to 80% of cases. But lifestyle triggers like stress, poor diet, hormonal changes, and harsh styling habits can make things worse.
Female pattern hair loss is often inherited and can be triggered by hormonal shifts, like menopause or conditions such as PCOS or a thyroid issue..
Nutritional gaps are another common cause; if you are low in iron, protein, zinc, or vitamin D, you may experience increased hair loss.
Autoimmune conditions, including alopecia areata, can lead to patches of hair falling out unexpectedly.
Certain medications, such as some chemotherapy drugs or blood thinners, may have an effect on your hair growth as well.
Wearing tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails too often can damage your hair over time and result in traction alopecia.
Hair loss in young women
Hair loss in young females is not an entirely new phenomenon, but rather a growing concern attributed to a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, medical, and increasingly, modern lifestyle factors. The perceived increase may be due to heightened awareness and environmental/ lifestyle shifts. The causes are diverse and can be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying issue.
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