Female pattern alopecia, the most common type of hair loss
The most common type of hair loss seen in women is androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia. Alopecia means baldness, but just as in men, it does not have to be complete hair loss. This is seen as hair thinning predominantly over the top and front of the head. It affects approximately one-third of all susceptible women, but is most commonly seen after menopause In female pattern hair loss some excess loss of hair is noted, but gradual thinning is what is what usually brings the woman to a dermatologist. Normal hair shedding is approximately 100-125 hairs per day. A lower number of hairs lost would apply to those whose hair is already thin. Hair loss occurs when the daily hair loss exceeds 100 hairs. In female pattern hair loss, when the affected hair is shed, the root grows one in its place that is shorter. Eventually it becomes invisible "peach fuzz". Genetically, hair loss can come from either parent's side of the family.
Female pattern hair loss may begin as early as puberty. In these cases if there are signs of hormone imbalance, such as excess facial or body hair, a hormone evaluation should be done. Hormonal changes are a common cause of female hair loss.
Many women do not realize that hair loss can occur after pregnancy or following discontinuation of read more
