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While most people identify hair loss at the temples with men, female hair loss at the temples is more common than one might expect, especially after menopause. In fact, around two-thirds of postmenopausal women suffer from some kind of hair thinning or the occurrence of bald spots, and any hair loss usually begins at the temples. While men’s hair loss causes and remedies are often discussed and well-known, many are unaware of what causes female hair loss at the temples. Below, learn more about female hair loss, including the most common causes and how hair loss can be avoided.
Signs and Symptoms of Female Hair Loss
It is completely natural to lose hair each and every day. This is part of normal shedding, so seeing a cluster of loose hair in the shower or sink in the morning is not cause for concern. Instead, the main warning sign of future hair loss is thinning hair. Women who notice their hair is visibly thinning, especially thin hair at the temples, may be seeing the first sign of female hair loss. Women may also notice that they are losing considerably more hair when they brush or wash their hair.
Some other symptoms may include small bumps on the scalp that look like little pimples, missing or broken hairs, and a decrease in hair volume. If a woman notices that her hair is thinning, it is advised that she see an expert as soon as possible so that they can determine the cause of hair loss and quickly begin treatment.
What Causes Female Hair Loss at the Temples?
There are a number of different possible causes for female hair loss at the temples. Below are a few of the most common causes:
Female-Pattern Baldness
Just as male-pattern baldness is the root cause of most male hair loss, female-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is often the cause of hair loss at the temples. This type of hair loss is genetic, meaning that nothing a woman does has contributed to her hair loss. Her hair loss was simply a result of her genetic makeup, and it was only a matter of time before she began to notice thin hair at the temples.
Physical or Emotional Stress
If a woman lives under a lot of physical or emotional stress, the constant duress can lead to female hair loss at the temples. The mind and body are interconnected, and stress can cause a variety of different ailments, including hair loss.
Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy
Dramatic hormone changes, such as the intense changes a woman undergoes when pregnant, can cause hair loss at the temples. During pregnancy, the woman’s body is working to support the growing baby, leading to an influx of hormones that can lead to hair loss.
Tight or Pulled Back Hairstyles (Traction Alopecia)
Hair loss can be caused by a woman constantly pulling on her hair by wearing her hair in a tight ponytail, braids, or a bun. This is called traction alopecia, and the constant pull on the scalp can lead to lead to thin hair at the temples and hair loss.
Side Effect From Medications
Certain medications can cause hair loss. Make sure to talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of any medication you are prescribed.
Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of female hair loss at the temples. The toxins in the smoke can cause long-lasting damage to hair follicles and hormones, leading to hair loss.
Vitamin Deficiencies
A diet that is lacking in essential vitamins for hair health, such as vitamin D and vitamin B, may cause female hair loss over time. Vitamin B and D both are connected to creating and maintaining hair follicles, so a vitamin deficiency may contribute to hair loss over time.
How Can Female Hair Loss at the Temples Be Avoided?
A significant portion of a woman’s femininity and beauty is oftentimes associated with her hair, which is why many women are willing to do whatever it takes to avoid hair loss. Successfully avoiding hair loss largely depends on the cause of hair loss, but below are some generally effective ways to prevent female hair loss at the temples.
Be Gentle With Hair
Traction alopecia can be caused by constantly twisting or pulling hair. Additionally, some hair treatments such as using hot curling irons can damage hair. Treating hair gently can help prevent traction alopecia and other forms of female hair loss.
Switch Up Hairstyles
While the occasional ponytail or tight braids can be a fun look, make sure to not make either of these hairstyles an everyday thing. Ponytails, tight braids, and other hairstyles that require hair being pulled back tightly can lead to hair loss over time. Let the hair relax every so often so it is not constantly under tension.
Lower Stress Levels
It is advised to try to lower stress levels, both for long-term hair health and overall health. Stress can contribute to hair loss, as well as a variety of other mental and physical ailments. For those who are constantly under a lot of stress, seek professional help or develop coping mechanisms to lower stress levels.
Eat a Diet Heavy in Protein and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Nutritional deficiencies in the diet can lead to hair loss. The best foods to fight hair loss are foods high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Some foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, almonds, flax seeds, and eggs.
Treatment for Female Hair Loss at the Temples from Dr. Cabin
If you are experiencing hair loss at the temples, there are treatments to restore and thicken your hair. Dr. Jonathan Cabin, a Arlington, VA facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is an expert in treating hair loss and balding. Dr. Cabin uses cutting-edge techniques such as high concentration PRP injections to fortify hair follicles, helping patients get back bold and beautiful hair.
If you are a woman who is noticing female hair loss at the temples, Dr. Cabin can help. Dr. Cabin has helped countless patients restore missing hair, getting incredible results. To learn more about hair restoration techniques for hair loss or thin hair at the temples, contact Dr. Cabin for a consultation today. During the consultation, Dr. Cabin will determine the cause of the hair loss and quickly determine the best possible treatment. Request a consultation by calling Dr. Cabin at 703-718-4411.