AARP Hearing Center
What Can I Do About Thinning Hair?
A doctor’s advice on whether women can stop their hair from thinning as they age
James Yates
As a woman, I never thought I’d lose my hair. Why is my hair thinning while I’m growing whiskers on my face?
I understand how distressing this must be for you. Many of my patients, both men and women, have expressed disappointment and anxiety when their hair starts thinning, and I’ve seen how it impacts their self-confidence. Although we normally lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day, when the process accelerates, as it does in two-thirds of post-menopausal women, it can be alarming.
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The first approach I take with patients is to try and confirm what’s causing their condition. If your hair is thinning on your head, but you have thicker facial hair growth, it’s most likely because of a hormonal imbalance — specifically increasing levels of male hormones, including testosterone. During menopause, you lose the protective anti-inflammatory shield of estrogen, and at the same time, testosterone becomes more prominent. That’s why you’re growing hair in unwanted places like your chin.
Genetics plays a role, but it’s a complicated formula. Several genes are involved in hair loss. Although we tend to think only the maternal side is responsible, it may be caused by multiple genes from both your mother’s and father’s sides.
Some medical conditions can cause hair loss, too. Diabetes is a common one. It both increases hair on the body and causes thinning on the head. For instance, let’s say you’ve been pre-diabetic for five to 10 years; your hair loss will likely be noticeable. Thyroid disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome (POS), a hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries, can also cause hair thinning.
Less common reasons include an immune-system-related condition called alopecia areata, which triggers patchy bald spots. Certain scalp issues, such as ringworm, can contribute to shedding. A hair-pulling mental health disorder known as trichotillomania promotes the compulsive urge to pull out one's own hair, not only from the scalp but also from eyelashes and eyebrows.
Some medications can contribute to thinning hair, as can taking too much of certain vitamins like A and E. I don’t want to go into all the possibilities because this is something you should investigate with your health care provider, but some medications prescribed for cancer, arthritis, depression and heart problems may be responsible for your hair loss.
On the flip side, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially iron, can trigger thinning. If you decide to go on a restrictive diet or develop anorexia, it may cause your hair to fall out because you’re not getting enough nutrients. Some people taking weight-loss medications report hair loss as well. And don’t dismiss the role stress plays. I remember back in March 2020 when the country shut down because of COVID. Several of my patients called in a panic during that time, saying, “Dr. Adam, the shower drain is filled with my hair!”
In some cases, when the issue causing hair loss is resolved, growth will return. Meanwhile, I’m a big advocate of taking a very low dose of an old blood pressure medication called Minoxidil. Studies show it’s particularly effective at promoting hair growth. I’ve been prescribing it for years to both my male and female patients, and I also take it. The sooner you begin, the better.
It's always a good idea to give your hair TLC. Try to avoid chemical treatments, don’t wash your tresses too often, and wear a hat to protect your hair from the sun. You might want to get regular trims, which are said to promote hair growth.
I suggest you make an appointment with your doctor, who can diagnose why you’re losing your hair by sending a scalp or hair sample to a laboratory or taking blood tests to see if there’s an underlying condition.
Everyone copes with hair loss in their own way. It isn’t easy, but there’s a lot more to living than a full head of lustrous locks. It may help to focus on other areas where you feel confidence and gratitude.
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