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Hair Loss An Issue for Millennial Women
by Jane Meggitt
Young, vivacious, energetic – these are the adjectives springing to mind if the topic is women in their 20s and 30s. Unfortunately, for many females in this cohort, there’s another word that describes them – “balding.” Generally, hair loss is an issue for men and older women, but millennial females appear to experience this condition at an earlier age. Either that or they are simply more willing to discuss the problem and find solutions.
Hair Loss in Young Women
Common causes of hair loss in young women revolve around hormonal disturbances, diet and stress. Women frequently lose hair post-pregnancy, but it returns after hormones get back to normal. Those following a vegan or vegetarian diet place themselves at risk for hair loss. Meat contains protein, and that’s the primary component of hair. Crash dieting is another factor. Such extreme forms of weight loss lead to considerable hair loss. Certain hairstyles or practices exacerbate hair loss. These include:
- Tight braids
- Extensions
- Constant dyeing
- Overbleaching
Hair loss in young women may mean the thyroid is out of whack, and thyroid issues can affect every part of the body. Oral contraceptives cause hair shedding in some users. For a small number of women, hair loss reflects genetic female pattern baldness. It’s not the receding hairline seen in male pattern baldness, but a general thinning of the hair.
Overall, stress is the likely culprit for the majority of young women with hair loss. Of course, hair loss gives an already-stressed out person additional ammunition for triggering anxiety and depression. It becomes a vicious cycle.
Millennial women battling hair loss shouldn’t rely on over-the-counter medications or get advice from social media. It’s crucial to visit a doctor and receive a definite diagnosis rather than fool around with so-called “therapies” that may make matters worse.
Hair Loss Treatments
Once a dermatologist gets to the root cause – pun intended – effective treatment can start. That may include dietary and nutritional therapy, birth control changes, medication for the underlying condition or the use of Minoxidil, a drug encouraging hair growth.
Many millennials aren’t comfortable with wearing wigs to disguise hair loss while waiting for regrowth to start, but they are an option. Your stylist can give you a new look to temporarily hide bald patches. Even though this is a difficult period in your life, remember that hair grows back. Perhaps that hair loss was just a reminder to get your diet, lifestyle and priorities in order.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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