Alopecia is the clinical name for hair loss, or thinning hair. While this is a big problem for many men, it’s also a problem for many women. Women experiencing alopecia often have to deal with embarrassment and humiliation to top it all off. Learning common hair loss treatments is a great proactive step women with alopecia can take.
Obtain a Physician's Checkup
While alopecia often occurs as a result of genetics and heredity, it can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. There are a number of chronic health conditions that cause alopecia, such as hormonal disorders, thyroid problems or severe stress. Obtain a checkup with your physician before pursuing treatments for alopecia to rule out any underlying health causes.
Try Minoxydil
Minoxydil, more commonly known as Rogaine, is the only female hair loss treatment approved by the FDA for this purpose specifically. The Minoxydil approved for women is the 2%, not the 5% because the stronger version can cause hair to grow anywhere the Rogaine accidentally touches. The hair that comes in with the use of Rogaine will fall out if the medicine is discontinued. To learn more about this medication, visit Rogaine.
Use Estrogen Treatments
While Rogaine works for blocking testosterone and helping hair grow, estrogen treatments work for individuals who have a decline in estrogen. This helps to re-grow the hair that has been lost due to the deficiency in that hormone. Often times, this happens to women who are of menopausal age or who have already gone through menopause. Estrogen replacement is a popular treatment for women who fall into this category. Treatments may come in the form of shots, pills, patches or rings. To learn more, visit Web MD.
Try Alternative Treatments
For women who do not want to take prescription medications, there are many different popular alternative treatments. One of the most popular is Saw Palmetto, which is thought to block testosterone naturally. This is an herbal treatment that many women have found success with. Saw Palmetto is available in supplements, and can be taken daily like any other type of pill. Of course, women should speak to their physicians before starting any form of herbal treatment as some herbs can interact with prescription medications.
Other alternative treatments involve practices like scalp massage, which is supposed to stimulate the follicles of the scalp and help the hair grow again. This can be done by the individual before bed and in the morning. Simply use slow circles with the tips of your fingers to gently massage the scalp. Some individuals believe Rosemary and Sage help to re-grow hair as well. By boiling these herbs in water and then allowing it to cool, you create a tincture which can be used to wash the hair daily.
While alopecia is a frustrating condition to have to deal with, women who are suffering with it do have options. Using the information above, women can determine which types of popular treatment may be right for them.
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