I've always had a bad receding hairline and thin hair. It has worsened with age. Hair loss options for women?

Question

I have started to get the hair loss pains on my scalp in places. I'm confident it is genetics. I have siblings w/similar issues. I'm only 28. I wouldn't be a good candidate for a transplant due to the overall thinness of my hair. I have looked into all options and they aren't cost or scientifically effective. Are there any options for me besides a wig? I am desperate and low income. My confidence is completely gone.

Michael Wolfeld, MD · Answer

Female hair loss (diffuse patterned hair loss) may be caused by a number of different factors, including changes in hormone levels, stress, childbirth, and medications.  Because the causes of diffuse thinning are so varied, an in-person examination is necessary for a proper evaluation. I would recommend to see a dermatologist as a next step.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

I appreciate your question. step 1 is to really get a diagnosis because that will help you to determine if any treatments are helpful. At minimum photos are needed but even this is really not sufficient- a full review of your story and up close examination of the scalp is what's needed along with review of your blood tests.

Robert Nettles, MD · Answer

Your hair loss could definitely be hereditary. Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is a derivative of testosterone and is what has been found to cause hair loss in both men and women. About 50% of men and 20% of women have this defect one one of our hereditary genes which overproduce this. As a result, high levels of DHT leads to problems such as hair loss and balding. Before assuming anything though, it would be best to consult with a hair loss specialist who has experience in hair regrowth and the re-balancing of body biochemistry and can develop the correct treatment for you specifically.There a precision treatments out there for both men and women catered to treating the underlying biochemical unbalance (which causes the hair loss) and will allow you to naturally regrow your hair.Good luck on your search.

I've always had a bad receding hairline and thin hair. It has worsened with age. Hair loss options for women?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I've always had a bad receding hairline and thin hair. It has worsened with age. Hair loss options for women?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.