'I'm a GP - cause of hair thinning in women may be due to eight reasons'

A general practitioner has revealed the eight reasons why your hair may thinning over time as it can be linked to a women's immune system or even your diet.

Thinning hair and loss of hair can be extremely stressful for women and can trigger potential feelings of shame, worry or insecurity. While thinning hair can occur at any age and takes on many forms, any type can feel worrying for people who may not understand the root cause.

Thankfully, Dr Bhavini Shah from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor has explained eight potential reasons why your hair may be falling out or thinning over time.

The GP has partnered up with professional hair stylist, Megan Brooks from IHS Hair Replacement London, to advise what the potential best hair-dos are for women who dealing with thinning locks.

What causes thinning hair in women?

There are a number of things that can trigger or are associated with thinning hair in women. Dr Shah has outlined eight possible causes below.

1. Female pattern hair loss

Also known as androgenetic alopecia, female pattern hair loss is common and can happen at any age. However it is "thought that 40 per cent of women aged 70 or over experience the condition in some form".

Those dealing with this issue tend to experience "gradual thinning of the hair", particularly on the top of their scalp. Some women may also notice that their hairline is receding.

Dr Shah said: "The condition is thought to be hereditary and while it doesn't usually cause baldness like in men, it can still affect self-esteem and confidence. If you're concerned about female pattern baldness, talk to your doctor who can advise you on possible treatment options."

2. Traction alopecia

This condition is a type of hair loss that can be caused by "prolonged pulling or tension on the hair follicles". So, if you are a fan of a tight ponytail or intricate braids, then you may suffer from traction alopecia.

Constantly pulling on the hair follicles will damage them and lead to "thinning or bald patches" - especially where the hair is pulled too tightly, such as the hairline.

Dr Shah advised: "It’s best to avoid repetitive wear of hairstyles that pull too tightly and give the hair regular breaks from tension, especially if you notice your hair thinning. Opting for looser hairstyles and avoiding excessive use of hair accessories can help protect the hair from damage."

3. Alopecia areata

This condition occurs when your immune system attacks your hair by mistake which can lead to "hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp or other parts of the body".

Alopecia areata can affect people of any age and can come and go without any warning. Dr Shah did note that some people can see their hair grow back in the areas it was lost - while "others may not".

The exact cause is unknown, but the expert did say that "genetics and environmental factors may play a role".

4. Stress-related hair loss

While stress doesn't cause hair loss on its own, it can contribute to conditions that do cause it - such as telogen effluvium.

Dr Shah added: "When the body is under stress, it releases a hormone called cortisol, which can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle and cause hair to enter into the resting phase prematurely."

5. Telogen effluvium

This is a type of temporary hair loss that happens when "a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle prematurely".

When telogen effluvium happens, more hair than you are used to can fall out and will lead to thinning hair - but the expert advised that it is "typically reversible" once your doctor has addressed the underlying cause.

Dr Shah explained: "This can be triggered by various factors such as physical or emotional stress, illness, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. While telogen effluvium can be distressing, it usually doesn't result in complete baldness."

6. Menopause

Women experience a change in hormonal levels - in particular, a drop in oestrogen levels - when they go through menopause. This can affect hair growth cycles and "often leads to thinning of the hair".

This can be seen at the crown of a woman's head and along her parting line.

Dr Shah explained: "While not all women experience hair loss during menopause, those who do may find it distressing. Although menopausal hair loss can't be completely prevented, there are treatments available, such as hormone replacement therapy or minoxidil, that may help slow down the thinning process and promote hair growth."

7. Poor diet

If you aren't getting all the essential nutrients and vitamins in your diet then you could experience some hair loss. A lack of iron, zinc and vitamin D can lead to hair loss, especially if you are deficient in iron to begin with.

Dr Shah advised: "Vitamins are essential nutrients that play a crucial role in hair health and getting the adequate amount is important.

"If diet and health related hair loss is causing concern, your GP will be able to check this and recommend the best course of action. This alongside a well-balanced healthy diet is the best way to ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs."

8. Using harsh products on your hair

If you are a person who consistently makes dramatic changes to your hair - such as perming or bleaching it - then you could experience some thinning hair or total loss of strands altogether.

Dr Shah added: "Certain chemicals found in shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes, and styling products can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, breakage, and hair loss.

"Ingredients like sulphates, parabens, and formaldehyde can irritate the scalp and weaken the hair, making it more prone to falling out. Opt for products that are gentle on your hair and scalp, and try to avoid over-bleaching."

What hairstyles are best for those dealing with thinning hair?

Hair stylist Megan Brooks, from IHS Hair Replacement London, spoke to LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor about the best hairstyles women can try out if they are experiencing thinning hair.

1. Short hair with a curtain fringe

The stylist advised: "Short hair with curtain bangs is a classic style if you have thin hair. A shorter cut creates fuller and thicker looking hair instantly as the ends are blunt, giving the appearance of more density.

"Longer hair tends to look thinner because the weight of the hair pulls it down, making it appear flatter. Try adding bangs to add volume and dimension to the hair by framing the face and creating layers."

2. Side parting

Megan noted that trying a side parting out on your hair can "add instant volume" if you are used to a typical middle parting. She said: "You can flip the hair from one side to the other as you wish to emphasise volume on the area which most needs it creating the illusion of full, thicker hair."

3. Wispy layered hairstyle

Opting for wispier layers instead of heavy ones can add some volume and texture to your hair by adding shape and removing the illusion of weight. Megan added: "They are light, airy and seamless - creating hair that’s easy to style."

4. Long A-line bob cut

This is a chic hairstyle that will give your hair some volume and bounce. The stylist explained: "This will give the illusion of thicker hair, especially when styled with soft waves or curls. This style adds volume and dimension to thin hair while maintaining a trendy look."