A recent study published by the American Academy of Dermatology alleges that approximately 30 million women in the United Stated suffer from some degree of hair loss.  Hair loss may constitute thinning of the hair, a gradually separating part, regularly loses clumps of hair, or all-over loss.  Damage caused by hair loss may temporary or permanent depending on the cause. 

Temporary and permanent hair loss can occur for very different reasons.  In order to thwart hair loss in the early stages, it is important to identify the culprit condition that may be triggering your hair loss. 

Stress, thyroid disorders, medication, hormones, general anesthesia, and protein and vitamin deficiencies are most often the cause of temporary hair loss.  Eating disorders or unhealthy extreme dieting may also trigger temporary hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies. 

Women may also suffer from a condition called traction alopecia, which is characterized by temporary hair loss due to various straining styling habits.  Hairstyles such as weaves, tight braids, and hair extensions can cause unnecessary stress on hair and the scalp and can cause hair to fall out, break and become weak.  Traction alopecia may become a permanent condition if styling habits are not stopped when symptoms occur.

Permanent hair loss is typically a hereditary condition.  Women experiencing gradual permanent hair loss will characteristically notice a slowing separating part line and an overall thinning of their hair.

Treatment for hair loss is an option, but it is important to determine the cause first in order to choose the best option.  Minoxidil, marketed as Rogaine, is the only Food and Drug Administration approved medication for hair loss. 

Rogaine, which is a topically applied solution, can be extremely effective for reversing hair loss when it is used properly and on a consistent basis.  Rogaine is a progressive treatment and results will usually not be noticeable until after six months of use or so. 

Hair restoration surgery is the only permanent way to reverse the effects of hair loss.  Through the use of microscopic follicular unit grafting, a physician can effecting restore hair that looks natural.  It is important to contact a hair loss specialist who is experienced in restoring women’s hair. 

To learn more about hair loss options and hair restoration surgery, you may wish to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon regarding your questions and concerns.  Discuss your aesthetic desires with your doctor to ensure that he or she has a basic understanding of the look you wish to achieve.